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Statement by Equal Opportunities Commission
The Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC), Dr Fanny Cheung Mui-ching, is fully aware of public aspirations for the Commission to eliminate discrimination in the community. She is fully committed to the cause of enhancing equal opportunities for persons with a disability and between women and
men.
To help rectify discriminatory attitudes in the community, the Commission will map out a comprehensive public education programme and publicity strategy as a matter of priority.
EOC considers it irresponsible to publicly condemn or exonerate any party which may be a subject of complaint. This defeats the spirit of fair investigation and prejudices its outcome.
Simplified comments may not be the most effective way to help the public to understand the legal and contextual considerations involved in determining whether an act is discriminatory according to the Sex and Disability Discrimination Ordinances.
Dr Cheung has met and will continue to meet with women's and other concern groups to exchange views on ways to enhance equal opportunities for the disadvantaged groups.
On some recent incidents, Dr Cheung reiterated that employers should be more sensitive to changes in social norms and the needs of the employees in formulating dress code, with a view to eliminating unnecessary gender stereotyping.
She also believes that where misconceptions or misunderstandings are involved, it is important for the parties concerned to engage in dialogue and explains their views.
In the case of the primary health care centre in a residential development, the authorities can help by explaining to the residents as fully as possible about the facilities to alleviate any possible misconceptions and unnecessary worries. This helps facilitate their acceptance of the disadvantaged groups into the community.
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