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diversity
matters

Diversity plays a crucial role in public space design, encompassing various dimensions that contribute to the overall vitality and well-being of a community. It instils a sense of belonging and pride among residents, facilitates social interaction and mutual understanding, and adds vibrancy to the urban landscape. Within the realm of diversity, we acknowledge the increasing significance of LGBTQ+ expression and identity in shaping public spaces. As their unique identities interact with public spaces more prominently than ever, it becomes crucial to address their needs and experiences. The inclusion and celebration of diverse identities further enhance the city’s inclusivity, engagement, and reflection of the community’s multifaceted richness.

Embracing diversity and providing a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community enriches the city’s fabric and fosters a sense of belonging for all individuals. The LGBTQ+ community’s role in revitalising spaces serves as a powerful inspiration for the built industry. It prompts us to consider how we can elevate the city by incorporating their perspectives, experiences, and requirements. 

  • Can we ensure sufficient provision of gender-neutral facilities in our everyday spaces?
  • Can urban spaces treat the LGBTQ+ community equitably?
  • Can a queer-friendly urban environment play a transformative role in shaping the identity and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community?

We hope to explore more.

The availability of data on the LGBTQ+ community in Hong Kong can vary. While there is limited official data specifically focused on the LGBTQ+ population, there have been some surveys and studies conducted by academic institutions, research organisations, and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. According to Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute, 63% of people in Hong Kong strongly agree that LGBT+ people should be treated fairly and should not be discriminated against. Due to the limited discourse surrounding queerness in public spaces, there is a need to establish comprehensive datasets on this topic. Collecting data on queerness in public spaces can provide valuable insights into issues such as safety, inclusivity, access to resources, and the overall well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.

#LGBTQ+ #inclusivedesign #queeringspace

Data Candy about Nanjing

There should be less constraints on use of spaces to allow queer spaces’ organic freedom to thrive – According to a research in 2022, 48.65% of pocket parks in Nanjing are highly flexible.

Data Candy about Kuala Lumpur

In Kuala Lumpur, the law (Khalwat law) does not allow for two unrelated people of opposite sexes to be within ‘suspicious proximity’ of one another in public spaces – this law does not apply to homosexual couples as homosexuality remains illegal in Malaysia.

Data Candy about Hong Kong

Most spaces used for holding LGBTQ+ events in Hong Kong (since 2012) are parks and streets  in Hong Kong Island.
Unlock your own #diversity matters data story.
Imagine you were designing a facility to create a more inclusive community. What would you choose to design?
If you are in urgent need of using the restroom and there is only one gender-neutral restroom nearby, would you use it?
When you randomly go out for a walk, what race/ethnicity do you think you would encounter as the first person?
May we have your name?