Homeosexuality was classified as a mental illness in China until 2001 and a crime until 1997, and authorities have arrested gay rights activists. Some Chinese parents have even brought gay children to “conversion” clinics for treatment. Yet in China being openly gay is still fraught with difficulties.ĭressing a certain way or public displays of affection can draw stares and lead to family turmoil. With an estimated LGBTQ population of 70 million, China has the world’s third-largest “pink market” after Europe and the United States.
