Amid preparations for the upcoming Hong Kong Gay Games, the organizing committee remains composed following an unexpected government statement. The statement, which urged adherence to laws and regulations, came in response to recent press releases unveiling details about the event. This inclusive multisports spectacle, now in its 11th iteration, had to be rescheduled from its original 2022 date due to the global pandemic. The festivities are slated to commence on November 3rd, spanning both Hong Kong and Guadalajara.
Resilience in Mascot and Venues
At the heart of the event’s ethos is mascot Sunny the Lion, symbolizing resilience and determination, traits that the Gay Games Hong Kong aims to propagate on a global scale. Among the highlights outlined in the press release, the 3,500-seat Queen Elizabeth Stadium is set to host the opening and closing ceremonies, martial arts competitions, dodgeball matches, and gala concerts. Additional venues, including the newly introduced MacPherson Stadium, KGV School, and Kowloon Junior School, were also unveiled, demonstrating the breadth of engagement.
Government’s Perspective and Organizer’s Outlook
When media outlets inquired about venue selections, government officials clarified that the Gay Games are organized by a community group and will largely occur in private venues. The government underscored the importance of compliance with laws and regulations, suggesting that some events might require specific licenses and permits. The organizers, however, maintain a positive stance, expressing their commitment to abiding by Hong Kong’s legal framework. They assert that their primary objective is to orchestrate an event that exudes inclusivity, joy, and diversity, ultimately contributing positively to Hong Kong’s reputation as a secure and inviting city.
As discussions about the event’s location continue, some activists advocate for hosting Gay Games XI exclusively in Guadalajara, expressing concerns about Hong Kong’s National Security Law and its potential implications. Nevertheless, the Gay Games Hong Kong organizers remain undeterred by the recent government statement, emphasizing their ongoing adherence to local laws while upholding their dedication to ensuring a safe, celebratory, and all-encompassing occasion. With Hong Kong’s reputation as one of the world’s safest cities, they remain optimistic that this status will persist throughout the event’s duration and beyond.