In a recent letter to the South China Morning Post, EOC Chairperson Ms Linda LAM Mei-sau called for increased intercultural dialogue in Hong Kong to promote greater safety and inclusion for all.

While the recent case of vandalism targeting the homes of ethnic minority families in a Kwai Chung housing estate is extreme and has been universally decried by Hong Kong residents, Ms Lam stressed that similar incidents could be prevented in the future by building stronger community cohesion.

“Having a friendly chat with a neighbour, classmate or fellow passenger in everyday settings is a powerful first step to dispelling biases and misconceptions that may have formed through years of social conditioning,” she wrote.

Aside from everyday interactions, Ms Lam also highlighted the power of sports to break down stereotypes and barriers, in both the published letter and a Chinese article in Ming Pao Daily. This was evidenced by the Racial Diversity & Inclusion Sports Day held by the EOC recently, as well as various mixed sports teams organised by local NGOs.

“We believe this approach can be expanded and adapted to further strengthen intercultural community relations and foster inclusive community building. We hope community and district leaders will take up the task,” Ms Lam wrote.

• Read the article in South China Morning Post
• Read the article in Ming Pao Daily (in Chinese only)