The EOC’s Working Group on Access met on 15 November 2010 with the Secretary for Development, The Hon Mrs Carrie LAM CHENG Yuet-ngor, to present its submission with recommendations on barrier-free facilities and universal design. Our paper urges the government and the community to recognize “access for all” as a basic human right. Recommendations made include (i) a call for the government to introduce policy to gradually bring old buildings to barrier-free design standards, (ii) extension of the Comprehensive Building Safety Improvement Loan Scheme to include property owners wishing to improve their building’s accessibility, and (iii) adding barrier-free design as one of the building inspection criteria.
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As part of our continued outreach to Hong Kong’s ethnic minority (EM) communities, the Equal Opportunities Commission is delighted to introduce a new programme for EM youths, Uniquely Me! This programme aims to provide a platform for youths to get inspired by the mentors’ experience of overcoming barriers and to share thoughts on how to break stereotypes and achieve their aspirations. Space is limited for this fun and interactive programme, and application deadline is 26 November 2010.
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To enhance public understanding of equal opportunities issues and promote awareness of the anti-discrimination ordinances, the EOC is organizing a roving exhibition in various shopping malls in public housing estates throughout November.
- Tin Shing Shopping Centre (Tin Shui Wai) on 18-20 November
- Lei Tung Commercial Centre (Ap Lei Chau) on 25-27 November
- Fu Cheong Shopping Centre (Sham Shui Po) on 28-30 November
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The EOC supports the Hong Kong Rehabilitation Power in organizing the project, “Rehab Power Grow Goal Go”, with the aim of advocating equality for persons with disabilities and promoting the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The major initiative of this project is a two-day educational and interactive carnival to be held at the Central Lawn of Victoria Park from 27 to 28 November 2010. One of the highlights of this event is a Check Walk on 28 November 2010 (Sunday), in which wheelchair users will be accompanied by volunteers and District Councilors to go to the Victoria Park from 18 districts.
