Seek Justice!

Today, as we celebrate International Women's Day, not long after the physical abuse of Erwiana S, which caught the attention of the international media, I want to address an insidious issue which is taking place on a far wider scale. The reason I'm doing this today is to encourage you to join me in paying special tribute to domestic migrant workers in Hong Kong.

Most of the domestic helpers who come to Christian Action for help have already endured prolonged psychological and emotional abuse. It’s only when their situation becomes unbearable that they approach us.

One such domestic helper currently receiving our assistance is S. She said, "In my experience employers vent their moods on the domestic helper. If my employer had a fight with her husband, she always took it out on me. Because I had problems with her behaviour, she has unlawfully terminated my contract and now I can’t fulfill my promise to send my son to university." S came to HK because she had a specific dream. And now that dream is vanishing.

S didn’t come to Hong Kong seeking charity. She was willing to work long hours so that she could give her sons the chance of a better future. It’s disgraceful that she has been treated unjustly right here in this prosperous city where she arrived with so much hope.

Stranded in a foreign country with little knowledge of the law or the language, S had no one to turn to. While the letter of the law provides for her protection from unfair treatment, how does a woman with very little education access this protection? And how could she go home with nothing to show for the long hours she has already worked here?

During a time when depression could have broken her spirit, she came to Christian Action and our Domestic and Migrant Workers Programme has come to the rescue. We provided S. with free legal advice so that she could file her claim and receive lawful payment. We offered her a safe place to stay so that she won’t be compelled to return to her country empty handed. But most importantly, we offered her hope, together with a friendly support network. S. has been given the opportunity to participate in training programmes and workshops which help her improve her Chinese and English, as well as her other skills.

Please join Christian Action as we support this vulnerable group of women. We must protect their human rights, even as our human rights are protected! Please donate now so that we may continue to help many more women who have been treated unjustly.

From the Bible: What does God require of you oh man? To seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8)