Hong Kong’s core values can shine at the Gay Games in 2022
Rachel Cartland finds it puzzling that the same government that urges Hong Kong people to be tolerant and to respect diversity, has been markedly reticent on hosting the Gay Games. But there is enough time to reconsider
Therefore, and understandably, people have concluded that the problem must lie in the event itself – even though such an attitude apparently pays insufficient attention to the fact that the Gay Games is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation.
The Gay Games does, however, have an explicit aim of promoting diversity and respect for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. If this aim is what accounts for the government’s lack of enthusiasm, then this is puzzling and reflects a strange rift in thinking. Public interest announcements regularly punctuate radio and TV schedules: all no doubt carefully thought-out articulations of agreed government policy. Among all the advice on health precautions when travelling and what to do when buying a home, there are frequent calls to citizens to exercise tolerance and respect others, their differences and diversity. One of those announcements rather poetically uses the metaphor of different sounds combining together to make a beautiful symphony.
Time to stop the official fun and games in Hong Kong
Government taking ‘wrong approach’ over court action in lesbian spousal visa case, equality watchdog says
It is also worth noting another, more subtle, contribution: the existence and efforts of the EOC allow Hong Kong to take its place among the ranks of advanced societies, which can have a significant if indirect effect on the decisions of multinational companies to do business here.
Hong Kong watchdog chairman makes strong call for law to protect sexual minorities
There have been suggestions that the government’s reticence on the Gay Games may stem in part from the religious convictions of some senior officials. It would be troubling if this was really the case and that there was so much prejudice around that there were objections to a sports competition; this is something that surely no modern religion would support.
Hong Kong chosen to bring Gay Games to Asia in 2022
Gay Games 2022 will see Hong Kong values put to the test
If we take a pessimistic view, we will conclude that our government has got itself into a most unfortunate situation over the Gay Games, with its lack of support putting it out of step with the modern world and showing inconsistency with its own policies.
Rachel Cartland is director of Cartland Consulting and a former assistant director of Social Welfare in the Hong Kong government