The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) staged its Equal Opportunities Day at the Exhibition Gallery of the Tuen Mun Town Hall today (24 July 2011) to advance public understanding of equal opportunities and the anti-discrimination ordinances.

“The EOC is mindful of the fact that a number of ethnic minorities, many of whom reside in the Northwest New Territories area, have difficulty accessing information about their protection under Hong Kong’s anti-discrimination ordinances,” said Mr. LAM Woon-kwong, the EOC Chairperson. “In addition, many are not aware of the variety of services available to their communities. Factors such as distance, transport costs, family obligations as well as cultural and language barriers hamper various groups from learning about their rights, leaving them more disadvantaged and heightening their isolation.”

“The EOC is committed to ensuring that everyone has equal rights to empower themselves through knowledge,” continued Mr. Lam. “By organizing the Equal Opportunities Day, we hope to widen access to these important information through fun and entertainment.”

These activities included talks on equal opportunities; cultural performances; and informative game booths hosted by organisations who provide services to ethnic minorities, including Christian Action SHINE Centre and Yuen Long Town Hall Support Service Centre for Ethnic Minorities. The afternoon also featured sharing from the guest mentor, Mr. Ajmal SAMUEL, the CEO of ASAP Transaction Processing Corporation Ltd and a recent “Difference Maker” awardee from the worldwide Rick Hansen Foundation. Finally, youth finalists from the Uniquely Me! Writing and Speech Competition showcased their ideas “for a better tomorrow”. Childcare services were provided free. The venue is also wheelchair-accessible.

For media enquiries, please contact Mr. Sam HO at 2106-2187.

Equal Opportunities Commission
24 July 2011