Same-sex marriage 'an inescapable issue' in Hong Kong, says head of equality watchdog
Head of equality watchdog seeks to study US laws, but many conservatives oppose decision
The head of Hong Kong's equality watchdog has called for discussion on same-sex marriage after the US Supreme Court made it legal across the US in a historic decision on Friday that is resonating around the world.
But Dr York Chow Yat-ngok's plea is a far cry from reality in a city where even a piece of legislation that seeks to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation is at the discussion stage - and where marriage applies strictly to heterosexual couples.
"To Hong Kong, same-sex marriage is an inescapable issue," Chow, chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission, said yesterday. "There is a need for more discussion."
He noted the commission had no power to handle marriage laws, but it could facilitate social inclusiveness and mutual respect, and would be happy to take part in debate relating to same-sex marriage.
In a 2013 interview with the South China Morning Post, Chow was already advocating civil union - a legal recognition of the partnership between two people of the same sex, granting them the same rights in law as marriage in matters such as welfare and inheritance.
In a society where social activism meets conservatism, Hongkongers have given varied responses to the US Supreme Court's landmark decision.
A conservative Christian group, the Society for Truth and Light, was unflinching in its opposition, posting Chow's reaction on its Facebook page along with the comment: "How globalised."
The group asked how far Hong Kong was from the US system, in which "a vote among nine judges decided the institution of marriage of 300 million people".
Pro-gay rights users responded by saying: "It must be a day of humiliation for [the society]."
Some suggested the group - long regarded by social activists as a stumbling block - boycott American products.
On Friday, the highest court in the United States said in a 5-4 ruling that the constitution required all 50 states to carry out and recognise marriage between people of the same sex.
"No longer may this liberty be denied," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority. "No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family."
US President Barack Obama hailed the ruling as a "victory for America", saying: "When all Americans are treated as equal, we are all more free."
Equality is also enshrined in Hong Kong's Basic Law.