Race Relations in Hong Kong: Uncovering Subtle Racism and Its Impact on the City’s Engagement with Southeast Asia and the Middle East
Hong Kong, a vibrant global city known for its economic prowess and diverse cultural fabric, has long been regarded as a melting pot where people from different backgrounds coexist harmoniously. However, beneath the surface, there exists a subtle yet persistent issue of racism that cannot be ignored, particularly for individuals of South Asian descent.
Hong Kong, predominantly populated by ethnic Chinese, presents a unique tapestry of identities and self-identities. Even within the ethnic Chinese community, there exists a diversity of cultural backgrounds and individual perspectives. Furthermore, the city is home to native ethnic minority groups, permanent foreign residents, and transient workers from across the globe, all contributing to its rich social landscape.
However, the exploration of race relations inevitably leads to an examination of racism. While Hong Kong may not witness racial violence on the scale of some Western countries, it does not mean that racism is entirely absent. The author shares personal experiences of subtle but significant instances of racism—an uncomfortable moment in an elevator when a woman chose to wait for the next one rather than share it with the author and a friend, or the recurring situation of being mistaken for a delivery person when entering upscale establishments.
These experiences are not isolated cases. Long-term residents of Hong Kong, particularly those of South Asian descent, can relate to such encounters. The author, in an article criticizing requests to exclude South Asian delivery men, unexpectedly received emails from various individuals, including ethnic Chinese Hongkongers, expressing their gratitude for highlighting this episode of not-so-subtle racism.
The existence of such racism raises questions about the self-identity of Hong Kong’s native-born members of ethnic minority groups. Is casual racism perceived as an acceptable trade-off for a life in a city known for its high standard of living? These questions cannot be answered without thorough investigation, not just by the media but also by the authorities.
At a time when Hong Kong’s leadership is emphasizing the importance of stronger ties with Southeast Asia and the Middle East, it becomes crucial for the city to project itself as a welcoming destination for individuals of all races, nationalities, and backgrounds. As other Asian economies seek to diversify their connections beyond Western nations, Hong Kong must consider whether it is doing enough to signal its inclusivity and openness to the world.
Hong Kong’s pivot to Southeast Asia and the Middle East offers immense economic opportunities, but it should not come at the cost of neglecting the need to address and eradicate subtle racism within its borders. By fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and actively works towards dismantling racial biases, Hong Kong can truly become the meeting point for entrepreneurs, investors, and talent from across the globe.
In conclusion, it is essential to acknowledge that Hong Kong, like many other cities, grapples with the issue of racism, even if it may not be as overt as in some other countries. By confronting and addressing this issue head-on, Hong Kong can strengthen its position as a global hub that embraces people from all walks of life, fostering a society where inclusivity and mutual respect are the pillars of its success.
