Diversity takes stand at Hong Kong district council poll
- Members of ethnic minority groups in Hong Kong show it is possible to run in an election as long as one embraces rules laid down by Beijing
Ethnic minority communities are an integral part of our social fabric. Yet they are often under-represented in the public domain, as reflected in the government advisory machinery and elected offices predominantly filled by local Chinese.
There needs to be more opportunities for those of different origins and cultures to take part and be counted in local affairs.
It is good to see candidates from ethnic minority groups standing in Sunday’s district council election.
Three Cantonese-speaking hopefuls are running against three others for the two seats in the Yau Tsim Mong South geographical constituency, making it one of the most hotly contested in the polls.
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According to a 2021 census, one in five residents of the area surveyed said they were not Chinese, Filipino, Indonesian or white, groups who comprise most of the population of Hong Kong.
The trio may seem insignificant in a citywide race involving hundreds of candidates, but their campaigns have helped turn the spotlight on some long-standing issues that are often taken for granted, including limited diversity in school admissions and job opportunities for those from ethnic minority communities.
Ultimately, voters will make their own choices, taking into account the background, experience and platforms of hopefuls.
What matters is that those who qualify under the “patriot-only” electoral revamp will be given a fair and equal chance at the ballot box.
The presence of candidates from ethnic minority groups in the new system shows ethnicity is not a factor when it comes to patriotism and national security.
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It is important to show that as long as one embraces the rules laid down by Beijing, there is a chance for them to take part in the electoral process.
However, it is worth noting that some voters from ethnic minority communities believe they are still being marginalised, saying some candidates only use Chinese in their campaign leaflets and fail to articulate and connect with them.
It would do well for both the authorities and candidates to reflect on this. The last thing an election needs are potential voters who feel disengaged and unable to make a meaningful contribution to the process.
