Q Is Bruce Lee deserving of a permanent Hong Kong memorial or museum?
Hong Kong doesn't have many memorials to individual citizens, regardless of their accomplishments. But there are streets and buildings named after colonial politicians and philanthropists.
As to Bruce Lee's credentials for such a memorial: the 'little dragon' was a master and pioneer of martial arts, and an international superstar. He was a pioneer in the sense that he broke down barriers between the different styles of martial arts. He also accepted students from any race or creed when old-time Chinese masters scorned teaching non-Asians. But perhaps what really makes Bruce Lee the pride of Hong Kong are his accomplishments as an actor.
He was the first Hong Kong actor to become an international star at a time when there were few Asians in Hollywood. He refused to perpetuate the weak, submissive and often humiliating 'Charlie Chan' type of roles that demeaned Asians. He showed the world the power, grace and beauty of Chinese kung fu.
It would be a shame if Hong Kong folks forgot about the man who made us so proud.
Richard Lam, Kowloon Tong
