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Letters | How can Hong Kong be culturally confident again? Keep an open mind
- Readers discuss the backlash against a Japanese performance of a mainland Chinese dance in Hong Kong, the Russian art of war, and airport wheelchair shortages
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At a time when the world’s cultural landscapes are shifting, it is disheartening to witness the dwindling cultural confidence of Hong Kong.
President Xi Jinping frequently emphasises cultural confidence, which underscores the importance of embracing one’s values.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Hong Kong was at the zenith of its cultural influence, exporting iconic films and music that resonated across Asia and establishing a profound sense of pride in its unique cultural identity.
However, a recent incident suggests a stark decline in Hong Kong’s cultural confidence. When Japanese dance group Avantgardey performed the “subject three” dance against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour, it was not celebrated as a harmonious meeting of cultures but rather drew a barrage of negative comments from Hong Kong internet users. Some felt Avantgardey should refrain from performing popular mainland Chinese dances in Hong Kong, a sentiment that starkly contrasts with the city’s once celebrated cultural openness and adaptability.
In a city that once led the region in cultural exports, the backlash against Avantgardey’s performance reveals a community uncertain about its cultural standing and identity. It is imperative for Hong Kong to work towards broadening its cultural perspective. Resting on our past laurels and confining ourselves to the familiar will not foster growth or rejuvenation of our cultural expression.
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