The Gay Games Hong Kong (GGHK) commenced on Saturday, marking its first occurrence in Asia, even in the face of opposition from anti-LGBTQ legislators and human rights advocates.
The opening ceremony commenced with a procession featuring the GGHK, Federation of Gay Games, and delegations from various nations, accompanied by captivating performances, including the traditional Hong Kong lion dance.
Lisa Lam, co-chair of GGHK, emphasized the event's vision, which has consistently aimed to establish a festival celebrating participation, inclusion, and individuals striving for their personal best.
GGHK took pride in introducing an all-genders category for multi-sports, allowing individuals of all genders to compete together, marking a notable step towards inclusivity.
The event is expected to host over 2,300 participants from 45 countries who will engage in a wide array of sporting and cultural activities, ranging from dragon boat racing to mahjong.
Guadalajara, Mexico, is also co-hosting the event alongside Hong Kong.
It's important to note that Hong Kong currently lacks laws prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and does not officially recognize same-sex marriage. A landmark ruling by the city's top court in September established a two-year timeframe for the government to establish a legal framework for recognizing same-sex unions.
However, no government officials attended the opening ceremony, with the organizers being cautioned in August to ensure the Games are conducted in a "lawful, safe, and orderly manner."
Regina Ip, who serves as the convener of the Executive Council, Hong Kong's primary decision-making body, was the sole pro-establishment figure present at the opening ceremony, despite calls from anti-LGBTQ lawmakers for her resignation. In her welcome speech, she remarked, "The holding of the Gay Games in Hong Kong is a strong testimony to the diversity, inclusion, and unity of our city. Equal opportunity and non-discrimination are highly treasured by our government and our people."
Some local legislators, such as Junius Ho, claimed that the Gay Games aimed to promote same-sex marriage and thus violated the National Security Law (NSL) imposed by Beijing in 2020. The NSL criminalizes actions related to subversion, collusion with foreign forces, and terrorism with potential life imprisonment sentences.
A group of Hong Kong human rights activists also called for the Games to be canceled in June, contending that the organizers had associated with pro-authoritarian figures linked to the persecution of the people of Hong Kong.
It's worth noting that Taiwan decided not to send athletes to Hong Kong but instead to Guadalajara due to concerns about the National Security Law.
Despite the opposition, enthusiasm among the spectators was palpable, with chants, cheers, and waves of support filling the atmosphere at the opening ceremony. Gerrit Schulz, a participant from Berlin, emphasized the importance of the event for raising visibility and acceptance in a region where LGBTQ rights may face challenges, stating, "This is a good idea because China is not very fond of gays. So this is to become visible in China as queer people."
