Through the Lens of Kajal Aswani

A perspective on racial inclusion and language barriers through the eyes and the journey of an Hong Kong-born Indian Lawyer

Thirty years ago, the representation of ethnic minorities in professional fields was alarmingly sparse. The barriers faced by ethnic minorities in pursuing professional careers were manifold, often exacerbated by cultural and linguistic challenges.  Kajal Aswani, a Partner in the Family Law and Divorce Team at Hugill & Ip, defied these limitations through sheer determination and versatility. Her proficiency in Cantonese, despite her Indian heritage, underscores not only her remarkable adaptability but also her commitment to breaking stereotypes.

Kajal’s journey is emblematic of a boarder thematic shift within professional circles, yet it starkly contrasts with the experiences of many other minorities who remain marginalised.  For those lacking proficiency in the dominant local language, opportunities remain limited, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and underrepresentation.

Q1: What is the current situation for ethnic minorities in Hong Kong?

Despite Hong Kong’s reputation as a multicultural metropolis, ethnic minorities, particularly South Asians, face significant challenges. Systemic discrimination, language barriers, and inadequate access to education and employment opportunities continue to marginalize these communities.

Q2: How do language barriers affect ethnic minorities in terms of education?

Language barriers severely impede educational progress of ethnic minorities, negatively impacting their academic achievement and social integration. Approximately 88.9% of residents primarily use Cantonese in Hong Kong, which creates obstacles for non-native speakers in accessing quality education. Many ethnic monitories are segregated in schools and receive insufficient Chinese language support, placing them at a disadvantage. This affects their confidence and in turn, their engagement with peers and teachers often leading to higher dropout rates, perpetuating cycles of educational inquietly and limiting future opportunities.

Q3: What are the employment challenges faced by ethnic minorities?

Ethnic minorities frequently experience barriers to employment.  Many face difficulties in securing jobs that match their skills and qualifications due to language barriers. As a result, many are relegated to low-paying or manual labour jobs. Employers frequently cite language proficiency as a reason for rejection, using it as an excuse to favour candidates from other backgrounds, which perpetuates cycles of exclusion and economic disadvantage.

Q4: What initiatives has the government introduced to address these issues?

The Hong Kong SAR Government has launched various initiatives, such as the “dual-track mode” in education supposed to benefit individuals with special needs and the “Racial Diversity and Inclusion Charter for Employers” by the Equal Opportunities Commission. However, these efforts often fall short of addressing the fundamental issues, such as providing adequate language education and training for teachers to support non-Chinese speaking students.

Q5: How could the inclusion of ethnic minorities positively impact us as a global city?

Inclusion of ethnic minorities can be a powerful driver of societal and economic growth. By leveraging the diverse talents and perspectives of all residents, Hong Kong could enhance its competitiveness as Asia’s world city. A more inclusive workforce can lead to increased innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange, attracting international businesses and fostering a more vibrant economy. Furthermore, recognizing and celebrating diversity can strengthen social cohesion and community resilience, making Hong Kong a more appealing destination for both talent and investment.

Q6: What steps are necessary for achieving genuine racial inclusion?

Achieving genuine racial inclusion requires a comprehensive approach involving various stakeholders. The government must ensure equal access to quality language education for all individuals, regardless of ethnicity. Employers should adopt fair hiring practices that prioritize qualifications over language fluency. Public awareness campaigns that celebrate the cultural contributions of ethnic minorities can also foster greater understanding and appreciation within the community. Collectively, these efforts can help shape a truly diverse and inclusive society, enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international city.