Ah Qiang (Hu Zhijun) is a prominent Chinese activist and the co-founder of PFLAG China (Parents, Friends, and Families of Lesbians and Gays). Since 2008, he has dedicated himself to building a bridge between LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, transforming "coming out" from a personal crisis into an opportunity for familial growth.
"When a child comes out, the parents 'enter the closet.' Our mission is to lead the whole family out into the sunshine."
Impact
Under his leadership, PFLAG China grew into one of the largest grassroots LGBTQ+ organizations in China, with chapters in dozens of cities. He pioneered the "Rainbow Cruise" and numerous national conferences that brought together thousands of parents to support their queer children. His work has fundamentally shifted the narrative from social isolation to community support, empowering parents to become the strongest advocates for their children's rights.