Letters | As we celebrate the Lunar New Year, let’s ensure we do better by horses
Readers discuss the exploitation of equine animals, the spirit of Ramadan in Hong Kong, and why members of the ethnic minority community should master Chinese
In Chinese culture, the horse symbolises strength, freedom and vitality. Yet as the Year of the Horse is celebrated with images of grace and power, real horses continue to suffer in industries that treat them as expendable.
This suffering persists under the banner of sport, tourism and tradition. But tradition does not justify harm. Cities worldwide are replacing horse-drawn carriages with charming electric vehicles that don’t force animals to toil in traffic and heat. The modern pentathlon has already removed horses from its events, recognising that compelling animals to perform dangerous feats for entertainment is incompatible with modern values.
Cultural pride is strongest when it evolves to reflect our highest values.
The Year of the Horse should mean more than symbolic praise. It should mean aligning celebration with compassion. A year meant to respect horses should not be built on their exploitation.