Hong Kong Students Honor Foreign Domestic Helpers at Annual "Jie Jie Day"

On Friday, over 400 foreign domestic helpers gathered at the English Schools Foundation’s Renaissance College in Ma On Shan, Hong Kong, for the annual “Jie Jie Day” event. This celebration, organized by a student committee, aimed to honor the significant contributions of domestic workers, often referred to as “second mothers,” in fostering a multicultural environment within households. The event, which has been held for 14 years, included cultural games, raffle draws, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for interaction between domestic helpers and the community.

South China Morning Post

Oscar So, head of the student committee, articulated the event's objective to bridge the gap between employers and helpers. He emphasized the importance of creating a space for genuine connection, stating, “We’re celebrating who they are, but we’re [usually] not individually connecting as individuals.” The event sought to eliminate the artificial distance that often exists in employer-helper relationships, allowing for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

South China Morning Post

The event was attended by teachers, parents, and representatives from the Philippine consulate, highlighting the community's support for foreign domestic workers. The term “Jie Jie,” meaning elder sister in Cantonese, reflects the affection and respect that many families have for their domestic helpers. The organizing committee expressed hope that the event would inspire the broader community to appreciate and cherish the contributions of these workers.

South China Morning Post

While the event celebrates the role of domestic helpers, some critics argue that such initiatives may not address the systemic issues faced by foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong, including labor rights and working conditions. They contend that while appreciation is important, it should be accompanied by concrete actions to improve the lives of these workers.

South China Morning Post

The student committee's initiative has been positively received within the community, with many expressing gratitude for the recognition of domestic helpers' roles. The Philippine consulate representatives also acknowledged the importance of such events in fostering understanding and respect between different cultural groups.

South China Morning Post

• “We’re celebrating who they are, but we’re [usually] not individually connecting as individuals, and by making this event a way in which they can relax, I think, [we] create that sense of connection,” — Oscar So, Student Committee Head

South China Morning Post

The “Jie Jie Day” serves as a reminder of the vital role that foreign domestic helpers play in Hong Kong society, while also highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue about their rights and well-being.

South China Morning Post