Hong Kong’s ESF schools hit with more allegations of racism after student’s open letter published in June

Several parents have spoken out alleging racism at ESF schools following the letter accusing teachers of various acts of discrimination

One parent said that during a field trip when her son forgot to bring a hat, the teacher told the student it did not matter because he was already dark-skinned

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ESF schools make up 22 of the 52 international schools in Hong Kong, educating almost 30 per cent of the student body. Allegations accusing teachers of racism have surfaced at a number of the schools.

Published: 7:15am, 3 Jul 2020Updated: 7:43pm, 4 Jul 2020

Singled out to collect litter, made the butt of jokes about skin colour, and having to tolerate cultural insensitivity are among complaints that have been raised by ethnic minority parents whose children study in English Schools Foundation (ESF) institutions in Hong Kong.

The issues have come to light following the publication of an open letter last month by a Year 13 student at King George V School, accusing teachers of “making fun of the names of Asian students” and other acts of discrimination.

To date the letter has garnered more than 2,000 signatures in support of reform against racist practices at KGV and opened a Pandora’s box for the ESF. More students, former students and Indian parents say they have experienced systemic racism at other ESF schools, including West Island School (WIS), Quarry Bay School (QBS), South Island School (SIS) and Bradbury School.

The Year 13 student wrote that it was no longer possible to “stay silent on the racism perpetuated within ESF schools” after the killing of African-American George Floyd at the hands of a white police officer, which led to widespread rioting in the US and protests around the world.

King George V School in Ho Man Tin, Hong Kong. Photo: Pro-United

Several parents, speaking on conditions of anonymity, agree that ESF teachers need to be more aware of cultural differences and help Asian students assimilate and adapt, especially those new to the ESF.

Hong Kong’s ESF schools hit with more allegations of racism after student’s open letter published in June

Several parents have spoken out alleging racism at ESF schools following the letter accusing teachers of various acts of discrimination One parent said that during a field trip when her son forgot to bring a hat, the teacher told the student it did not matter because he was already dark-skinned

Several parents have spoken out alleging racism at ESF schools following the letter accusing teachers of various acts of discrimination

One parent said that during a field trip when her son forgot to bring a hat, the teacher told the student it did not matter because he was already dark-skinned