Hong Kong society must unite against discrimination
Yan-yan Yip urges support for efforts to turn Hong Kong into a more inclusive society, with equal rights for all, in a time of fractious divisions
The universal suffrage debate has dominated public attention. But while some government officials are busy dealing with issues of constitutional development, some other sectors of Hong Kong society have been paying attention to another important issue - equal opportunities.
The Equal Opportunities Commission is conducting a comprehensive review of our discrimination laws. In July, it released a consultation document based on its initial findings, and has been hosting public forums and meetings to explain the major issues highlighted in the document.
Just like in the constitutional reform debate, the issues raised by the review have divided opinion. In the two public forums that I attended, the focus fell on anti-mainland sentiment and de facto marriage, especially during the Cantonese session.
It was neither intended nor planned. As a result, there was only a very limited time to discuss the other important issues raised, such as disabilities and gender, that were also covered in the consultation.
The review covers the four current discrimination ordinances (on sex, disability, family status and race), and also the role, power and constitutional arrangements of the commission. It is about much more than just the two controversial issues of anti-mainland sentiment and de facto marriage.
There are a total of 77 questions in the consultation document and it would be unrealistic to expect everyone to answer all of them. But it is crucial that people respond to the many different issues raised.