Gender inequality unacceptable in a genuine international city
I am writing to express my views on gender inequality in Hong Kong and to suggest ways to help achieve equality. Compared with cities on the mainland, the problem may seem negligible in Hong Kong. Nonetheless, it does exist.
Take the Legislative Council as an example. Not only have female members remained a minority, many, such as Emily Lau Wai-hing, are criticised for their toughness. If they were male, would they still be criticised? Even though Hongkongers advocate so-called equality, a lot of what our media does violates this. Biased views against women are common.
This does not just apply to local women. Although most immigrants face some discrimination on arrival here, the situation is more severe for women. Female mainlanders are often labelled 'village girls' and teased about their old-fashioned appearance and accents.
Domestic helpers from Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia and the Philippines, are no exception. In the eyes of arrogant Hongkongers, domestic helpers are slaves. Their attitude seems to be; we pay their wages so we can do whatever we want. This includes shouting at them, verbally insulting them and sometimes beating them.
If Hong Kong is truly a civilised and international city, gender inequality should be unacceptable. To turn the situation round, all of us have to put in some effort.
I suggest the government set up laws to protect women who are being victimised. A minimum wage should be agreed to protect foreign workers from exploitation. And, if the budget allows, the government should provide subsidies for the needy who are involved in gender equality lawsuits.
Achieving gender equality cannot be done by the government alone. Society as a whole has to take responsibility for making this happen.
For instance, community centres could provide training courses and programmes to help immigrants adjust to their new lives in Hong Kong. When they are better equipped with skills and information on the issue, they will be more able to stand up for their rights.
Cherrie Cheng, Tuen Mun
