Marching matters
For my last day at CitySeen, I thought it would be appropriate to gauge some feelings surrounding the July 1 handover anniversary, since I am officially handing over the column after today. Seven years on, and really not much has changed. People will today be taking to the streets - either in scorching heat or the odd thunderstorm - to fight for democracy. I won't give you my thoughts, after all, who cares about what I have to say. Instead let's hear it from some of the personalities around this city of ours.
David Tang - born in Hong Kong, owner of Shanghai Tang, China Club and Cipriani's.
'Since the Joint Declaration in 1983, we have been preparing for democracy. It has been over 20 years and we are told we are still not mature enough for universal suffrage. I really do think that after all this time, with a reputation of being one of the smartest people in the world, that we should be mature enough to vote for who we like. What more do we need to do to prove we are ready?'
Allan Zeman - chairman of the Lan Kwai Fong Association.
'I am definitely not marching. I will be constructively thinking about the future rather than taking to the streets. Last year, it was totally different, people were marching because they were suffering, but this year the economy is much better. There are more constructive ways to plan your future than to give a negative sign to the rest of the world. People around the world will see and think that our freedom is being taken away, but I am as free as I have ever been. If we were in dire straits, then I would be leading the march!'
Christopher Doyle - cinematographer, lived here for yonks, speaks Cantonese and Putonghua fluently.
'I am in Beijing, which might be the strongest evidence that democracy can work ... in your face is not as effective as behind the scenes or under the table. As with all endeavours, our diligence and integrity is not as important as our credibility and perseverance. We will prevail.'
Fong So - artist, born in Guangzhou, lived here since the age of 10.
'I think it's a good way to express your opinion. I think people will march for many reasons, not just democracy. Last year, people marched because they were unhappy with the way the government handled Article 23 and Sars. This year, I don't think people are much happier. I think they have good reason to worry about the future.'
Stephen Clynes - fashion guru in Hong Kong, lived here for over 10 years.
'I attended last year. I hope this year's march will be bigger and with a better turnout. Hong Kong people have got to stand up for their civil and human rights.'
