AJARN Pride: Lived Experiences of Professional Filipino Migrant Gay Men Teachers in Chiang Mai, Thailand

This study explored the lived experiences of professional migrant Filipino gay men teachers in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It examined their personal and professional challenges, cultural adaptation, workplace support systems, experiences of discrimination and social acceptance, and the factors influencing their decision to remain in Thailand. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were collected through semi structured interviews with seven migrant Filipino gay men teachers employed in public schools, private schools, and universities in Chiang Mai. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common patterns and meanings across participants’ experiences. The findings revealed challenges related to language barriers, limited career advancement opportunities, financial concerns, cultural adjustment, and unequal treatment associated with nationality. Despite these challenges, participants generally perceived Thailand as an accepting environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, which enabled greater freedom of identity expression and improved emotional well being. Support systems were primarily informal and consisted of friends, family members, and romantic partners rather than institutional programs. Professional stability, financial adequacy, social acceptance, lifestyle satisfaction, and emotional relationships were identified as key factors influencing participants’ decision to remain in Chiang Mai. The study was limited to seven participants from Chiang Mai, which may restrict the transferability of the findings to other contexts. Future research may examine the experiences of migrant LGBTQ+ educators in other regions of Thailand or compare their experiences across different countries. The findings highlight the need for inclusive policies, equitable employment opportunities, and stronger institutional support systems for migrant LGBTQ+ educators. This study contributes to the limited literature on migrant Filipino gay men teachers in Thailand and provides valuable insights into the intersection of sexuality, nationality, and professional identity within the context of international migration and education.