Homogenized Hong Kong

There were 451,000 non-Chinese people in Hong Kong five years ago and there are probably many more today. My regret is that I don't tell you often enough that I cherish every opportunity I get to spend with that remarkably vibrant group.

I wish you could have been there on May 29, when our Ethnic Minority community was celebrated and honoured at the annual Cultural Exchange Variety Show which we hosted in Yau Ma Tei.

The Ethnic Minority (EM) community awakened me to the very reason why I love to call Hong Kong home - it has such a rich diversity of cultures!

I was asked to open the show - and I know what you're thinking…Yes, I love to sing! But no…I didn't perform! I left that up to our talented friends!

The show highlighted our service users as well as others from the EM community as they collaborated on performances that promoted racial harmony. Through the activities arranged by our centre during the past year, many of the performers actually learned to play instruments or dance so it was a great opportunity for them to show off what they'd learned!

More than 200 EMs and local residents packed out the venue! After the show, there were game booths for all ages, and many from the local Chinese community came to join in as well.

My hope is that we'll continue to bridge the divide between the EM community and local residents of Hong Kong, and ensure that EMs receive equal opportunities without fear of discrimination. Events like these certainly help people to understand more about EM culture and their lives in Hong Kong!