Hello friends â as you may have seen on the news, Hong Kong just had its worst fire in at least 60 years with 128 confirmed dead and over 200 still missing. If you are overseas and would like to help, please consider:
1. Spreading correct information about bamboo scaffolding and the cause of the fire
There is no evidence that the bamboo scaffolding exacerbated the fire. In fact, it is far more likely that the cost-cutting of the contractor led to this tragedy as they used low-cost mesh instead of the industry-standard non-flammable mesh, which caused the fire to spread upwards quickly. Bamboo is very difficult to light on fire and has been used as scaffolding in Hong Kong for many years. It is part of our culture and a stronghold of local heritage. It is one of the few industries where the Mainland has been unable to take over because they use metal scaffolds. There has been a huge spread of disinformation even among reputable international media that the bamboo was a leading cause of the fire. In fact, this is misleading and only helps the governmentâs agenda to phase out bamboo scaffolding in favour of metal scaffolding, which they are already doing. Biases against bamboo scaffolding are often rooted in misunderstanding and xenophobia. It would be extremely helpful to correct those who are spreading this misinformation. Please help stop the state from turning this tragedy into a way to promote their political agenda.
2. Check in on your HKer friends
Many HKers are shaken by the incident and may be struggling with their emotions/mental health as a result. Please offer them a listening ear and let them know you are here to support them.
3. Donate
If you are in a position to do so, you can consider donating to the following reputable organisations: Mission for Migrant Workers Yan Chai Hospital Yan Oi Tong Tung Wah Hospital Feeding Hong Kong Po Leung Kuk Crossroads
Pray for Hong Kong đ We will get through this. If the news is overwhelming or triggering, please take a break. That being said, I do sincerely appeal to everyone to spread the word, especially those I see on here who have accounts dedicated to Hong Kong movies/culture. We can't just reminisce about old Hong Kong when Hong Kong is still here and in need.
