Hong Kong voices calling for LGBT rights must not grow fainter at setbacks
- The world has evolved in all sorts of ways, yet the concept of human rights relating to sexuality has mostly remained unchanged for centuries
- What gives rise to hope is the fact that most young people recognise homosexuality as a natural human tendency
PUBLISHED : Saturday, 15 December, 2018, 4:12pm
UPDATED : Saturday, 15 December, 2018, 4:03pm
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I refer to the article, “Taiwan’s image as Asia’s LGBT rights beacon takes a hit as same-sex marriage referendum fails” (November 25) and the letter from John Yau, “How the lack of gay rights hurts Hong Kong” (November 27).
The proposal to legalise same-sex marriage in Taiwan has failed, but all is not lost. I do believe other jurisdictions in Asia will carry on the battle for equal rights for gay, lesbian, bi- and transsexual persons.
The world has evolved in all sorts of ways, yet the concept of human rights relating to sexuality has remained unchanged for centuries in many parts of the world. Hence homophobia or sexuality-related discrimination remains a serious problem even now. Are we not equal individuals in an open-minded society? Why shouldn’t everyone enjoy the same rights?
The fight for LGBT rights is difficult and the road is long. LGBT voices must not be weakened by setbacks in the struggle for equal rights. If heterosexual people enjoy the freedom to marry, so should their homosexual counterparts. Just because one group is in the majority does not justify discrimination against another. There is nothing abnormal about homosexuality, it is a natural human tendency like any other. What gives rise to hope is the fact that most young people recognise this. We, the young generation, are the future of any country. Why shouldn’t we help a vulnerable community?
If all of us fight for the rights of the LGBT community, not only will they benefit, but other vulnerable, less vocal communities may also take inspiration and make their voices heard.
Ko Tsz Hin, Tseung Kwan O
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