[Relay Interview④] Yong Hye-in “The Issue of Discrimination Will Be Addressed Within Public Systems”

Interview with Lawmakers Co-sponsoring the Anti-Discrimination Act

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] Yong Hye-in, a member of the Basic Income Party, described the Anti-Discrimination Act as "a law that is desperately needed by those who have experienced discrimination that erodes their personal self-esteem and soul."

Yong said that when Jang Hye-young of the Justice Party proposed the bill, she was receiving many protest calls, but now she hardly receives any. Yong stated, "Controversy needs to continue for discussions to progress, so as a member of the National Assembly, I am considering proposing a bill that will provoke controversy." The following is a Q&A with Representative Yong.

Yong Hye-in, Member of the Basic Income Party. / Photo by Dongju Yoon doso7@

- There are other laws that prohibit discrimination, right?

= There are laws such as the Act on the Prohibition of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities, but overall, this bill specifically outlines the types of discrimination present in our society and stipulates practical and concrete measures. The Anti-Discrimination Act is a law that is necessary at this time and one that people cannot help but agree with. Although it is a matter of urgent importance to individuals in their personal stories, it has long been pending and discarded due to expiration of terms. Now is the time to act.

- What do you think about the claim of the "right not to see"?

= I have given much thought to the idea that the Anti-Discrimination Act should go beyond the discourse of merely the "right not to see." Although the Anti-Discrimination Act has not been enacted, it has significance and outcomes, but I felt that such things have not been updated at all by some politicians. Those politicians who fail to update their thinking should be judged by the people. I think it is time to confirm that they are neither universal nor reasonable.

- What benefits will the community gain once it is passed?

= In reality, discrimination is not recognized unless it gains empathy or sympathy. Those who suffer discrimination had to painstakingly explain why it was discrimination. Individuals had to bear the damage alone, but if the Anti-Discrimination Act is enacted, it will be possible to officially provide relief or compensation for damages caused by discrimination within the social system. It is a very meaningful change in that society takes joint responsibility for discrimination, which was previously left solely as an individual's problem. Of course, proceeding with relief procedures through the Human Rights Commission requires great courage from individuals, but since it results in a public outcome, it can prevent further discrimination from occurring.