Letters | Let all of Hong Kong celebrate Gay Pride
- Despite government inertia to outlaw discrimination against sexual minorities, some district councillors have pledged support for the LGBT cause in various ways, including by supporting this year’s Pride Parade. The rest should join in
Amid government inertia, it is comforting that three district councils – North, Sham Shui Po and Southern – have proclaimed their support of Hong Kong Pride Parade. It is also encouraging that more than 100 district councillors have signed a joint letter rebuffing attempts by well-known anti-gay politicians to turn the clock back to the dark ages of oppression against LGBT+ persons.
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Perhaps it is useful to point out that, under the District Council Ordinance, the functions of a district council include advising the government “on matters affecting the well-being of the people in the district”.
To this end, it is perfectly legitimate for any district council to support Hong Kong Pride Parade. In fact, all district councils should do the same, as there are LGBT+ persons living in all 18 districts, and equality goes to the very heart of the well-being of these people.
Also, Hong Kong is not a theocracy – faith-based policymaking has no place in the city. It is also wrong to impose one’s moral views on other people or broader society.
Pride parades around the world are about diversity and inclusion; they are also festive events that celebrate love. Of course people who hold bigoted views would rather see Pride go away.