Hong Kong’s core values can shine at the Gay Games in 2022
Rachel Cartland finds it puzzling that the same government that urges Hong Kong people to be tolerant and to respect diversity, has been markedly reticent on hosting the Gay Games. But there is enough time to reconsider
Therefore, and understandably, people have concluded that the problem must lie in the event itself – even though such an attitude apparently pays insufficient attention to the fact that the Gay Games is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation.
The Gay Games is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation
The Gay Games does, however, have an explicit aim of promoting diversity and respect for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. If this aim is what accounts for the government’s lack of enthusiasm, then this is puzzling and reflects a strange rift in thinking. Public interest announcements regularly punctuate radio and TV schedules: all no doubt carefully thought-out articulations of agreed government policy. Among all the advice on health precautions when travelling and what to do when buying a home, there are frequent calls to citizens to exercise tolerance and respect others, their differences and diversity. One of those announcements rather poetically uses the metaphor of different sounds combining together to make a beautiful symphony.
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It is also worth noting another, more subtle, contribution: the existence and efforts of the EOC allow Hong Kong to take its place among the ranks of advanced societies, which can have a significant if indirect effect on the decisions of multinational companies to do business here.