Tahiti Pride Week concludes with march in Papeete

Tahiti Pride Week ended with a Pride march in Papeete on Saturday, October 17, 2026, drawing 70 participants, many from Oceanian countries. The event took place in front of the vice presidency in the morning and featured a festive atmosphere with music from artists like Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga, and Cher.

March route highlights key locations

The marchers moved to Vaiete Square, passing enthusiastic passers-by and tourists disembarking from the cruise ship Anthem of the Seas. A symbolic stop was made in front of the well-known cruise terminal, Te Ānuanua.

Event ties to Pacific Human Rights Conference

The march occurred on the eve of the fourth Pacific Human Rights Conference, which will open on Monday at the presidency. Oceanian delegations, including participants from Fiji and New Caledonia, joined the procession.

Fijian participants highlight challenges

Diro, Lina, and Vivienne from Fiji, who are deaf members of the LGBT community, participated and were supported by their interpreter, Kelera. They expressed pride in being part of the event and highlighted the challenges faced in their home country, where same-sex marriage is not allowed.

New Caledonia representation includes drag performance

New Caledonia was represented by participants such as Sébastien, alias Lidzy Komandement, who performed later that evening as part of a drag queens show. He noted that while New Caledonia may have more rights for transgender individuals, it lacks visibility for the LGBT community.

Participants promote acceptance and inclusion

Participants carried banners and shared messages about acceptance and inclusion. Marc, a resident of Pirae attending the march for the first time, spoke about misconceptions and the need for open-mindedness.

Religious support for the event

Nelia, a member of the Community of Christ, supported the event and mentioned that her church accepted same-sex marriages and access to the priesthood in 2025, emphasizing faith and love over sexual orientation.

Local leaders attend and speak in support

The mayor of Papeete, Rémy Brillant, and the vice president of French Polynesia, Minarii Galenon, who also serves as minister of Solidarities in charge of the LGBTQIA+ community, attended the event and delivered speeches in support of the cause. They emphasized the importance of respect and safety for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Growing participation and future goals

Karel Luciani, president of the Tahiti Cousins Cousines association, noted the growth in participation compared to the previous year and expressed hope for even more involvement in the future. The association plans to continue advocating for human rights and addressing issues such as bullying in schools and the need for education on acceptance.

Event includes information and support stands

Prevention stands were set up in Vaiete Square to provide information and support. The event highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBT community in various Pacific Island nations, including the Solomon Islands and Tonga, where homosexuality remains a criminal offense.