Homosexual discrimination in the Hong Kong entertainment industry
It was the 1997 Hong Kong Film Awards, which was supposed to be a glorious event, but because of the unintentional mistakes of several hosts, it turned into a public humiliation and discrimination. That night, hosts Wu Zhenyu, Huang Zihua and Zhang Daming performed a skit called "Xugen SHOW" on stage, the main purpose of which was to express disgust and disgust with homosexuality in a funny way.
When they "ridiculed" the gay-themed movie "Happy Spring", the trio began to use exaggerated movements and expressions, and even imitated the sound of vomiting to express their disdain for homosexuality. This behavior is undoubtedly a public humiliation and belittling of the film's leading actor, Leslie Cheung, and other gay groups. What's even more outrageous is that the on-site director kept pointing the camera at Leslie Cheung, which seemed to be deliberately insulting his dignity.
It is conceivable that as a senior actor, Leslie Cheung must have suffered in his heart at that time. His self-esteem has been hurt and trampled on like never before. This public humiliation hurt not only him personally, but the gay community as a whole. If it weren't for the on-site staff to stop it in time, I am afraid it would have triggered the anger of Leslie Cheung's fanatical fans and caused even greater conflicts and riots.
This incident has once again sparked social attention and discussion about the gay community. Some people have condemned the organizers for maliciously discriminating against homosexuals, arguing that they lack basic professional ethics and humanistic qualities. It has also been pointed out that this reflects the serious prejudice and discrimination against the gay community in Hong Kong society at that time.
Coincidentally, at an awards ceremony not long after, the famous actor Tony Leung was physically attacked for refusing to kiss the hostess, which once again raised questions and reflections on the professionalism of entertainment practitioners.
After the incident, although the organizers and the parties made a public apology, this could not erase the trauma caused by this painful discrimination incident to Leslie Cheung and the entire gay community. This incident is like a hammer, which severely shatters the entertainment industry's tolerance and respect for sexual minorities.
For a time, comments on the incident in Hong Kong society were disturbed. Supporters denounced the ignorance and bigotry of the organizers and presenters, arguing that their actions were a blatant affront to human rights and multiculturalism. Opponents argue that homosexual behavior is contrary to traditional values and that there is nothing wrong with the moderator's actions.
The controversy seems to have brought the topic of homosexuality back to the forefront. People are beginning to reflect on societal attitudes towards LGBTI people, and are there still deep-rooted prejudices and discrimination? As a modern society that is inclusive and diverse, should we learn to respect everyone's lifestyle and values?
People of insight called on entertainment practitioners to treat different cultural groups with an open and inclusive attitude, and use reason and humanistic care to eliminate prejudice, rather than promoting hatred. The stage should not only show personal preferences, but also be a place to spread positive energy and cultivate social inclusion.
The incident has also sparked reflection on the professional ethics of entertainment practitioners. Some veteran film critics have pointed out that the superficiality and speculation of contemporary entertainment practitioners who are too focused on entertainment effects while ignoring the basic bottom line of professional ethics are distressing.