Hong Kong must do right by its transgender minority
York Chow calls for bold changes in our laws and attitudes so society may fully embrace those who have been marginalised for too long because they do not conform to gender expectations
In May, the Court of Final Appeal set a milestone for this city with its judgment on the case of Ms W, a post-operative male-to-female transsexual, who fought, against the odds, to be recognised as a woman and for the right to marry the man she loves.
Despite this victory, much remains to be done to advance equality for this oft-overlooked group of individuals whose gender identity differs from their sex at birth.
Misunderstanding and assumptions about transgender people remain rife. Consequently, many face constant anxiety and rejection. According to a 2012 survey commissioned by Community Business, 77 per cent of the working population respondents said they do not know what "transgender" means.
Currently, the Equal Opportunities Commission can only handle discrimination complaints from transgender individuals under the Disability Discrimination Ordinance, since gender identity disorder is categorised as a mental health condition. But we must do better to address the needs of this marginalised population, starting with distinct legislation to protect against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. This would bring us in line with a number of overseas jurisdictions, such as the UK, which have such legislation.
Each of us can equip ourselves with knowledge and speak out against misinformation
A significant number of transgender people face outright discrimination, loss of employment and other humiliations, big and small, in their daily lives. According to the Community Business survey, nearly one in four respondents said they are not accepting of transgender people. About 40 per cent believe these individuals face social stigma and suffer insults and mockery.