Guest Comments by the Hong Kong Domestic Helpers (a Facebook Group)

HONG KONG – Recently we read your editorial, Helpers Seek Fairness, Reaction Reeks of Racism.

We feel for the concern and fears of some Hong Kong citizens who believe that giving equal treatment to foreign domestic helpers who have fulfilled the requirement of the Basic Law in regard to permanent residency will inflate the population and burden this society. However, please consider this. It won't mean 125,000 more residents, but only the recognition of people who already have lived in Hong Kong for ages. This won't change Hong Kong's population and demographics a bit.

Already, the local government is thinking of limiting the contracts of foreign domestic helpers to six years (two renewals) to prevent more permanent immigration. Even so, domestic helpers who have lived continuously in Hong Kong for more than the seven years prescribed by the Basic Law deserve permanent-resident status. Anything less would be discriminatory.

Doing the right thing may involve some pain, but certainly not the amount the government would have people believe with its alarmist proclamations. There is no growth without some pain. Will Hong Kong grow into a more egalitarian society at the cost of a little sacrifice? Or will it avoid any sacrifice, favoring short-term, selfish interests at the expense of the weak who continuously face discrimination?

Which choice points to the moral and natural progression of a developed society? Which choice holds the society back, tied to morally unacceptable practices, for the sake of comfort?

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