HKSAR Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor meets the press at the Central Government Office on June 15, 2021. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG – Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor said on Tuesday she does not condone remarks which will unnecessarily divide society or incite hatred, adding that Gay Games Hong Kong 2022 will be aided in hiring government venues.

In a press briefing before the weekly Executive Council meeting, Lam said the government understood that the purpose of the event, which will take place from Nov 11-19 next year, is to promote inclusiveness and diversity.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam told reporters it was much regretted that individual lawmakers had become emotional in expressing their views about the event

“We have no problem with that sort of spirit and purpose of the games,” Lam said. “As usual, we will provide the needed help in terms of the hire of government venues in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Leisure & Cultural Services Department.”

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She noted that Secretary for Home Affairs Caspar Tsui Ying-wai had made this point clear at the Legislative Council.

Lam also told reporters it was much regretted that individual lawmakers had become emotional in expressing their views about the event.

“I certainly, personally and as a Chief Executive, do not condone that sort of remarks by individuals which will unnecessarily divide society and even raise hatred among certain sectors in the community,” she said.

The Gay Games is a 9-day international diversity festival with multi-sports, arts and cultural events organized by the LGBTQ+ community every 4 years, according to the event’s official website.

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