Why were Hong Kong Marathon runners asked to cover political slogans?

Question

Accepted Answer

Hong Kong Marathon Runners Asked to Cover Slogans Due to Political Content Concerns

Hong Kong Marathon participants were instructed to alter or conceal clothing and even a tattoo bearing the Cantonese slogan “Hong Kong, Add Oil!” due to concerns that it represented a political message. Organisers had issued prior warnings that political slogans would not be permitted during the event, with some runners being informed they could face disqualification if they displayed the phrase.
Slogan Associated with Pro-Democracy Movement

The slogan “Hong Kong, Add Oil!” gained widespread recognition and was frequently used by demonstrators during the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. This association led to its classification as a political statement by event organisers, prompting the interventions.
Enforcement Actions Taken on Runners

Several instances were reported where runners were approached by officials. One woman was reportedly escorted by police to a booth and informed that her shorts, emblazoned with the slogan, constituted a “political outfit.” Another participant was instructed by marathon staff, following police intervention, to remove his shirt bearing the slogan and instead wear his blazer. Even a participant with the phrase tattooed on his leg had the inscription covered with plastic tape.
Organisers' Stance on Political Elements

William Ko, the chair of the marathon organising committee, stated that the event was a sports competition and that the organisers did not want to see any political elements. While he did not specifically detail why the slogan was problematic, the organisers' position underscored a desire to maintain the event's focus on athletics.
Broader Context of National Security Law

The interventions occurred against the backdrop of Beijing's imposition of a national security law in 2020, enacted to quell the 2019 protests. This legislation criminalised much dissent and allows for severe penalties for political slogans deemed subversive. Critics contend that this law has eroded Hong Kong's freedoms, making the city more akin to the authoritarian mainland.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why were Hong Kong Marathon runners asked to cover political slogans?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends