登入平等机会之友会
Opening Ceremony of the “Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day and Celebration of Difference Maker”
Opening Speech by Mr. Lam Woon-kwong, Chairperson, Equal Opportunities Commission （只备英文版）
Good afternoon. I am honoured to be here. Thank you to the Hong Kong Spinal Cord Injury Fund for inviting me.
25 years ago, as a District Officer, I had the privilege of receiving Mr. Rick Hansen on his first trip to Hong Kong. His visit was a part of his global Man in Motion World Tour, which has been vital in raising public awareness and funds for research into spinal cord injuries. In the many years since our first meeting, he has never stopped striving to make this world more inclusive for all. Then, as now, Rick’s achievements as an advocate, a role model, and an inspiration to people with and without disabilities deserve to be celebrated.
I would like to also recognise the dedication of the Hong Kong Spinal Cord Injury Fund, today’s organizer. Since their establishment, they have worked tirelessly towards better therapies and higher research standards for spinal cord injuries.
The groundbreaking research and therapies are, of course, made possible by the efforts of many medical and research staff. Your commitment to a cure continues to inspire us.
I am particularly moved by the strength and determination present here today from those with spinal cord injuries and other mobility impairments. Your resolve to lead positive lives serves as a powerful example for all of us.
The Equal Opportunities Commission looks forward to working with you to eliminate discrimination and promote the rights of people with disabilities. Indeed, Dr. Christine Leung, one of today’s guests of honour, has joined one of the EOC’s youth mentorship programmes previously to help encourage young people to break down barriers. Similarly, Mr. So Wa-wai and Ms Sang Lan are both our role models, not only for their refusal to give up in the face of tremendous obstacles, but also for their continued drive for excellence. Together, we can overcome indifference and prejudice, and move towards our goal of an accessible and inclusive society.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here. Enjoy the event.
