HK Women Gather, Call for End of Violence

Around 7,000 prominent figures from various circles and members of women's groups in Hong Kong participated in a large-scale gathering of women on Aug 25, calling for women's efforts to protect Hong Kong and bring about a quick cessation of violence.

"This is the first time I have publicly commented on the recent social issues in Hong Kong. I believe the 'silent majority' like me can no longer remain silent. We need to stand up and say 'no' to violence," said a participant.

"We all should take the overall and long-term interests of Hong Kong into consideration, and resolve differences through legal channels," she added.

At the gathering, Pansy Ho, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Federation of Women, said women in Hong Kong need to unite together to protect our home, and play a role in finding a peaceful solution to the problem.

"Despite fear, confusion, and sadness, we need to be strong and buck up to protect our home and our children. We should work together to restore the peace of Hong Kong," she said.

Maria Tam, Deputy Director of the Hong Kong SAR Basic Law Committee of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, said women need to defend Hong Kong and the pattern of "One Country, Two Systems".

The priority for the time being is to cease the violence so that people can stop living in fear, said Elsie Leung Oi-sie, former Secretary for Justice of  the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

(Source: China Women's News/Translated and edited by Women of China)