The “Taking a Stand” seminar series is a core component of the GE Capstone course “Taking a Stand: Engaging in Public Discourse through Advanced Research and Writing” (GCAP3056), co-hosted by the English Department and the Language Centre. The course is currently co-organised and taught by Dr Benedict Rowlett (ENG) and Dr Simon Wang (LC).

In this course, students identify a social problem facing our local/global society and conduct research to develop insightful and persuasive arguments on this issue. They will share their findings with stakeholders (e.g. the HK government and the public) through various channels such as writing letters to the editor and opinion pieces in the media, submitting reports to the government, and engaging members of the community through online and offline activities. In the seminar series we invite leading figures from across Hong Kong society (NGO and community leaders etc.) to discuss their work and vision with our students. Through these talks, we expect our students will gain greater insight into issues of social justice, advocacy, and community engagement, and will be inspired to work towards the betterment of society in their coursework projects and beyond.   

This year, there will be two Zoom seminars in the “Taking a Stand” series; they are open to the public as well—please remember to register.

The Case for Enacting Freedom of Information Act
in Hong Kong

• How can Code on Access to information empower the citizens of Hong Kong
• Why the city needs a Freedom of Information Act to hold the government accountable

Guest Speaker: Dr. Scott Edmunds (Co-founder, Civic Sight)
Date & Time: 25 February 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Platform: Zoom (Please register HERE)

Advancing Dignity, Acceptance,
and Equal Rights

• How to engage the community and educate the public about LGBT+ issues in Hong Kong
• How to establish a link between LGBT+ organisations and others supportive of the cause

Guest Speaker: Mr Jerome Yau (CEO, Pink Alliance)
Date & Time: 4 March 2021; 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Platform: Zoom (Please register HERE)

(Monday 8 February 2021)