#ProtestArt #NeverForget #Interview
Traces of Graffiti in Hong Kong: "If we can write them easily, then we can write them more”
When passing the streets of the Hong Kong, be it inside the tunnels, the flyovers, or by the roads you drive by every day, it is hard to miss the many grey cover-up patches on the pale walls and washed-out letterings.
These marks are some of the many traces left in the city, reminding Hong Kong people of what they went through two years ago.
MC Yan, the lead singer of local Hip Hop band #LMF , also known as "Asia's first graffiti artist", calls these "Cleansed Fonts” (清潔體), because they are presenting the original message in a fresh new way.
Since Beijing's implementation of #NationalSecurityLaw in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, the words "Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of our Times" have since been considered taboo.
MC Yan feels that it is a foolish move on the regime, because “they have highlighted something, and given people a target to be directed against.”
In fact, he feels that it has become an opportunity to inspire people to think. This has also led to many derivative creations; people were inspired to arrange shapes like triangles and circles together to remind people of the popular “revolution” slogan.
“On the surface, it looks like the movement has become scattered, but in fact, the symbols are still there, the idea lives on,” said MC Yan.
When asked whether the change from words to symbols is a submission to the regime, MC Yan replied by saying that, “when these ideas are turned into symbols, it is being simplified but it doesn’t mean that they were faded”.
He believes that using symbols only made it faster and easier for people to write, “if we can write them out so easily now, then we can write them more.”
Source: Hong Kong Citizen News #Jul18
Image: #FirstHand
https://www.facebook.com/hkcnews/posts/1496216894055048
#Symbol #Graffiti #MCYan #LMF #Icon #Creativity #CleansedFonts
Traces of Graffiti in Hong Kong: "If we can write them easily, then we can write them more”
When passing the streets of the Hong Kong, be it inside the tunnels, the flyovers, or by the roads you drive by every day, it is hard to miss the many grey cover-up patches on the pale walls and washed-out letterings.
These marks are some of the many traces left in the city, reminding Hong Kong people of what they went through two years ago.
MC Yan, the lead singer of local Hip Hop band #LMF , also known as "Asia's first graffiti artist", calls these "Cleansed Fonts” (清潔體), because they are presenting the original message in a fresh new way.
Since Beijing's implementation of #NationalSecurityLaw in Hong Kong on June 30, 2020, the words "Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of our Times" have since been considered taboo.
MC Yan feels that it is a foolish move on the regime, because “they have highlighted something, and given people a target to be directed against.”
In fact, he feels that it has become an opportunity to inspire people to think. This has also led to many derivative creations; people were inspired to arrange shapes like triangles and circles together to remind people of the popular “revolution” slogan.
“On the surface, it looks like the movement has become scattered, but in fact, the symbols are still there, the idea lives on,” said MC Yan.
When asked whether the change from words to symbols is a submission to the regime, MC Yan replied by saying that, “when these ideas are turned into symbols, it is being simplified but it doesn’t mean that they were faded”.
He believes that using symbols only made it faster and easier for people to write, “if we can write them out so easily now, then we can write them more.”
Source: Hong Kong Citizen News #Jul18
Image: #FirstHand
https://www.facebook.com/hkcnews/posts/1496216894055048
#Symbol #Graffiti #MCYan #LMF #Icon #Creativity #CleansedFonts
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#Interview
Consul General of Canada in Hong Kong most concerned about National Security Law and prosecutions of political assembly participants
After the enactment of the National Security Law (NSL) in Hong Kong, the Canadian government announced a “Lifeboat Scheme” in Nov 2020 further enabling immigration from Hong Kong. The scheme came to effect in Feb 2021 and attracted applications from a lot of Hongkongers.
When interviewed by The Stand News in Feb 2021, the Consul General of Canada in Hong Kong Jeff NANKIVELL emphasised that young Hongkongers charged for participating in political activities will not be barred from immigrating to Canada.
Continue Reading our fully translated article:
https://telegra.ph/Interview-before-leaving-Part-1-Consul-General-of-Canada-in-Hong-Kong-most-concerned-about-National-Security-Law-and-prosecution-06-25
Source: The Stand News, #May10
#Canada #JeffNankivell #ConsulGeneralCanadaInHK
Consul General of Canada in Hong Kong most concerned about National Security Law and prosecutions of political assembly participants
After the enactment of the National Security Law (NSL) in Hong Kong, the Canadian government announced a “Lifeboat Scheme” in Nov 2020 further enabling immigration from Hong Kong. The scheme came to effect in Feb 2021 and attracted applications from a lot of Hongkongers.
When interviewed by The Stand News in Feb 2021, the Consul General of Canada in Hong Kong Jeff NANKIVELL emphasised that young Hongkongers charged for participating in political activities will not be barred from immigrating to Canada.
Continue Reading our fully translated article:
https://telegra.ph/Interview-before-leaving-Part-1-Consul-General-of-Canada-in-Hong-Kong-most-concerned-about-National-Security-Law-and-prosecution-06-25
Source: The Stand News, #May10
#Canada #JeffNankivell #ConsulGeneralCanadaInHK
#Interview #KiwiChow
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 1
Source: Stand News #Jul17
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 1
Source: Stand News #Jul17
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Interview #KiwiChow
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 1
On July 16, 2021, the #CannesFilmFestival in France added #KiwiChow’s “Revolution Of Our Times” to this year’s screening as a last minute surprise. The short film documented the pro-democracy movement sparked off by an extradition law in Hong Kong in 2019.
Speaking in subsequent media interviews, Chow acknowledged that his safety has been a grave concern to many people close to him. Some advised him to release the film anonymously, while others urged him to leave Hong Kong.
Chow, however, does not want to be overtaken by fear, so he decided to stay behind.
“If I leave, I’ll be trapped in fear”
In early July, Chow’s interview was featured on the CGST Magazine published by the Chinese Academy of Theology. In this feature story, he talked about his short film “Self-Immolator”, one of the segment episodes of “Ten Years”, a film which won multiple awards in Hong Kong in 2016. Back then, people close to him were also concerned for his safety and advised him to flee, but he decided otherwise, clinging to his strong Christian faith.
Chow recalled the time he went on a mission trip in Africa with his wife. “Where your heart is" (扎心) is an expression that they spoke of often. Chow said his heart is now tightly knit to Hong Kong. He decides to stay, not only to fulfill his responsibility, but also to seek freedom in his heart.
Chow expressed that if he leaves Hong Kong, he will be trapped in fear. “We are Christians. We have always been seeking Christ, seeking love, seeking freedom.” “They can imprison my body, but not my soul, nor my faith,” Chow added.
In recent months, the social situation in Hong Kong has become tense. Chow expressed in his interview with Stand News that he thought that the documentary, “Revolution of our Times”, could well be banned from discussion even on the internet. He is delighted to see netizens sharing the film, as well as its news, posters and trailers online as usual.
#KiwiChow #RevolutionOfOurTimes #Art #KeepTheFaith
Source: Stand News #Jul17
https://bit.ly/37zcPdX
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 1
On July 16, 2021, the #CannesFilmFestival in France added #KiwiChow’s “Revolution Of Our Times” to this year’s screening as a last minute surprise. The short film documented the pro-democracy movement sparked off by an extradition law in Hong Kong in 2019.
Speaking in subsequent media interviews, Chow acknowledged that his safety has been a grave concern to many people close to him. Some advised him to release the film anonymously, while others urged him to leave Hong Kong.
Chow, however, does not want to be overtaken by fear, so he decided to stay behind.
“If I leave, I’ll be trapped in fear”
In early July, Chow’s interview was featured on the CGST Magazine published by the Chinese Academy of Theology. In this feature story, he talked about his short film “Self-Immolator”, one of the segment episodes of “Ten Years”, a film which won multiple awards in Hong Kong in 2016. Back then, people close to him were also concerned for his safety and advised him to flee, but he decided otherwise, clinging to his strong Christian faith.
Chow recalled the time he went on a mission trip in Africa with his wife. “Where your heart is" (扎心) is an expression that they spoke of often. Chow said his heart is now tightly knit to Hong Kong. He decides to stay, not only to fulfill his responsibility, but also to seek freedom in his heart.
Chow expressed that if he leaves Hong Kong, he will be trapped in fear. “We are Christians. We have always been seeking Christ, seeking love, seeking freedom.” “They can imprison my body, but not my soul, nor my faith,” Chow added.
In recent months, the social situation in Hong Kong has become tense. Chow expressed in his interview with Stand News that he thought that the documentary, “Revolution of our Times”, could well be banned from discussion even on the internet. He is delighted to see netizens sharing the film, as well as its news, posters and trailers online as usual.
#KiwiChow #RevolutionOfOurTimes #Art #KeepTheFaith
Source: Stand News #Jul17
https://bit.ly/37zcPdX
#Interview #KiwiChow
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 2
Source: Stand News #Jul17
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director Seeks Freedom by Faith: "Hong Kong is Where My Heart Is"
Part 2
Source: Stand News #Jul17
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Interview #KiwiChow
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director is Not Afraid: "“No matter how insignificant it is, I'll do it and keep going”
Previously, Part 1:
https://www.facebook.com/2406628919558580/posts/3041807359374063/
Continue with Part 2:
On July 16, 2021, the #CannesFilmFestival in France added #KiwiChow’s “Revolution Of Our Times” to this year’s screening as a last minute surprise. The short film documented the pro-democracy movement sparked off by an extradition law in Hong Kong in 2019.
“No matter how insignificant it is, I'll do it and keep going”
Kiwi Chow said, “[If] I leave Hong Kong, it is going to be painful and fearful for me. So, I am in fact too scared to leave Hong Kong for now. Although it might sound contradictory, I am staying behind to find freedom, to be free from fear.”
Chow continued to say that his decision to stay in Hong Kong is connected to his religious belief. “I believe in freedom and justice. I want to practice what I believe. Now I am presented this opportunity to practice it, so I must hold on and carry it through.”
Chow also mentioned that a businessman approached him two years ago to produce a documentary about the anti-extradition movement. Although Chow specializes primarily in feature films, he saw it as an appropriate role for him to contribute. “No matter how insignificant my role is going to be, I'll do it and keep going.”
In another interview on Ming Pao Weekly, Chow said he felt blessed that the documentary was accepted and shown in the Cannes Film Festival, so that people around the world can come to understand the movement taking place in Hong Kong.
Chow said he is hoping the film would send a message of empathy, justice, and freedom. He does not want history to be distorted, and it is never his intention to spread hatred.
"I am a film director, and I documented this movement. As to what the audience may take from the film, it is beyond my control. In this documentary, I recorded what happened. The scenes, the people and their voices captured in this documentary are real. That’s what I want to let the world know and understand.”
#KiwiChow #RevolutionOfOurTimes #Art #KeepTheFaith
Source: Stand News #Jul17
https://bit.ly/37zcPdX
“Revolution Of Our Times” Director is Not Afraid: "“No matter how insignificant it is, I'll do it and keep going”
Previously, Part 1:
https://www.facebook.com/2406628919558580/posts/3041807359374063/
Continue with Part 2:
On July 16, 2021, the #CannesFilmFestival in France added #KiwiChow’s “Revolution Of Our Times” to this year’s screening as a last minute surprise. The short film documented the pro-democracy movement sparked off by an extradition law in Hong Kong in 2019.
“No matter how insignificant it is, I'll do it and keep going”
Kiwi Chow said, “[If] I leave Hong Kong, it is going to be painful and fearful for me. So, I am in fact too scared to leave Hong Kong for now. Although it might sound contradictory, I am staying behind to find freedom, to be free from fear.”
Chow continued to say that his decision to stay in Hong Kong is connected to his religious belief. “I believe in freedom and justice. I want to practice what I believe. Now I am presented this opportunity to practice it, so I must hold on and carry it through.”
Chow also mentioned that a businessman approached him two years ago to produce a documentary about the anti-extradition movement. Although Chow specializes primarily in feature films, he saw it as an appropriate role for him to contribute. “No matter how insignificant my role is going to be, I'll do it and keep going.”
In another interview on Ming Pao Weekly, Chow said he felt blessed that the documentary was accepted and shown in the Cannes Film Festival, so that people around the world can come to understand the movement taking place in Hong Kong.
Chow said he is hoping the film would send a message of empathy, justice, and freedom. He does not want history to be distorted, and it is never his intention to spread hatred.
"I am a film director, and I documented this movement. As to what the audience may take from the film, it is beyond my control. In this documentary, I recorded what happened. The scenes, the people and their voices captured in this documentary are real. That’s what I want to let the world know and understand.”
#KiwiChow #RevolutionOfOurTimes #Art #KeepTheFaith
Source: Stand News #Jul17
https://bit.ly/37zcPdX
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#Interview #Firsthand
Hong Kong Female Frontliner's Look Appears in Top Model UK 2020: "Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact"
Source: FirstHand #Aug6
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Hong Kong Female Frontliner's Look Appears in Top Model UK 2020: "Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact"
Source: FirstHand #Aug6
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#Interview #Firsthand
Hong Kong Female Frontliner's Look Appears in Top Model UK 2020: "Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact"
On June 26, 2021, the Top Model UK 2020 was staged in the Royal Horseguard Hotel in London.
A Hong Kong model, Catherine (thereafter C), took to the stage as the Lady Liberty of Hong Kong. After the contest, Catherine spoke to us in an interview.
1）What makes you show up on the stage as a female warrior, the Lady Liberty of Hong Kong?
C: When pondering for an appropriate outfit for the self-style session of the contest, I reckon any fashion piece that connects with the pro-democracy protest in 2019 would well represent Hong Kong.
I remember this common protester symbol which was well-recognized in Hong Kong and easy to execute. Under time pressure, we made this protest-inspired outfit without even seeking consent from the designer of the art piece.
We want to bring Hongkongers’ efforts in the pro-democracy movement to global attention and showcase Hong Kong local culture on international platforms. I wish to let Hong Kong people know that we can always find ways to continue our fight under escalating oppression.
2）How do other countries respond to this female warrior outfit, and what does this outfit actually embody?
C: Some contestants were able to tell the difference between Hong Kong and China. They are keen to share their opinions on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong with me. I am grateful for their encouragement.
The master of ceremony said that they like this outfit. Some dressers showed thumbs up while some make-up artists found it a unique and stunning design.
3）What do you think this Lady Liberty design is symbolizing?
C: I found much resonance in this protest design, probably because I am a woman. Females are no longer the weaker sex nowadays. We can walk on to the front-line to battle and fight for our beliefs. A fully-geared female shows the determination to fight on, even when she realizes that the journey will be covered in sweat, blood and tears.
I think I am not slim enough to fit into the outfit and bring the best out of it. I am not the female protester on the poster in Hong Kong, but an ordinary Hongkonger. I have yet given up, and I wish other Hongkongers to continue their fight as well.
I can take this protest-inspired outfit to the stage which everyone else can also continue the protest in their own ways. The costume is heavy in its memory of the pro-democracy movement in 2019, symbolizing every unyielding Hongkonger and the memories back then.
4）What do you want to do the most when going back to Hong Kong?
C: Hum... I want to eat local dishes like barbecue pork and chicken rice with lemon tea. I want to see pop singer Hins Cheung’s concert (Cheung is always #1 for me) and see live shows of some popular local bands and movie stars. I want to show my support to Hong Kong movies too.
Hong Kong is always the best, no matter where I am. I will utter my best effort to defend and guard Hong Kong culture because “I fxxking love Hong Kong” (Catherine cited a well-known protest slogan).
5）What do you want to say to those still in Hong Kong?
C: Hang on! Hong Kong needs every one of us to continue the fight in our own ways. Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact. We have to keep on fighting. I believe we can take on any roles comfortable to ourselves and fight.
Wrapping up the interview, Catherine cited lyrics of a popular canton pop, “In fact, learning to live in desperation is an unending life-long training.”
I hate losing. But until now, we have nothing else to lose, Hongkongers.
#ProtestArt #Fashion
#HKCulture #AntiELAB #TopModel #LadyLiberty #FemaleWarrior #Catherine #UK
Source: First Hand #Aug6
**Photos are provided by the interviewee
Hong Kong Female Frontliner's Look Appears in Top Model UK 2020: "Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact"
On June 26, 2021, the Top Model UK 2020 was staged in the Royal Horseguard Hotel in London.
A Hong Kong model, Catherine (thereafter C), took to the stage as the Lady Liberty of Hong Kong. After the contest, Catherine spoke to us in an interview.
1）What makes you show up on the stage as a female warrior, the Lady Liberty of Hong Kong?
C: When pondering for an appropriate outfit for the self-style session of the contest, I reckon any fashion piece that connects with the pro-democracy protest in 2019 would well represent Hong Kong.
I remember this common protester symbol which was well-recognized in Hong Kong and easy to execute. Under time pressure, we made this protest-inspired outfit without even seeking consent from the designer of the art piece.
We want to bring Hongkongers’ efforts in the pro-democracy movement to global attention and showcase Hong Kong local culture on international platforms. I wish to let Hong Kong people know that we can always find ways to continue our fight under escalating oppression.
2）How do other countries respond to this female warrior outfit, and what does this outfit actually embody?
C: Some contestants were able to tell the difference between Hong Kong and China. They are keen to share their opinions on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong with me. I am grateful for their encouragement.
The master of ceremony said that they like this outfit. Some dressers showed thumbs up while some make-up artists found it a unique and stunning design.
3）What do you think this Lady Liberty design is symbolizing?
C: I found much resonance in this protest design, probably because I am a woman. Females are no longer the weaker sex nowadays. We can walk on to the front-line to battle and fight for our beliefs. A fully-geared female shows the determination to fight on, even when she realizes that the journey will be covered in sweat, blood and tears.
I think I am not slim enough to fit into the outfit and bring the best out of it. I am not the female protester on the poster in Hong Kong, but an ordinary Hongkonger. I have yet given up, and I wish other Hongkongers to continue their fight as well.
I can take this protest-inspired outfit to the stage which everyone else can also continue the protest in their own ways. The costume is heavy in its memory of the pro-democracy movement in 2019, symbolizing every unyielding Hongkonger and the memories back then.
4）What do you want to do the most when going back to Hong Kong?
C: Hum... I want to eat local dishes like barbecue pork and chicken rice with lemon tea. I want to see pop singer Hins Cheung’s concert (Cheung is always #1 for me) and see live shows of some popular local bands and movie stars. I want to show my support to Hong Kong movies too.
Hong Kong is always the best, no matter where I am. I will utter my best effort to defend and guard Hong Kong culture because “I fxxking love Hong Kong” (Catherine cited a well-known protest slogan).
5）What do you want to say to those still in Hong Kong?
C: Hang on! Hong Kong needs every one of us to continue the fight in our own ways. Every small efforts will eventually come together and make a big impact. We have to keep on fighting. I believe we can take on any roles comfortable to ourselves and fight.
Wrapping up the interview, Catherine cited lyrics of a popular canton pop, “In fact, learning to live in desperation is an unending life-long training.”
I hate losing. But until now, we have nothing else to lose, Hongkongers.
#ProtestArt #Fashion
#HKCulture #AntiELAB #TopModel #LadyLiberty #FemaleWarrior #Catherine #UK
Source: First Hand #Aug6
**Photos are provided by the interviewee
#Interview #Hongkonger
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada:
"Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Photo: Netizen #Aug31
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⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada:
"Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Photo: Netizen #Aug31
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⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Interview #Hongkonger
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating the police brutality victims of the 8.31 Prince Edward Station Attack by the police during the 2019 #AntiELAB movement.
Read more:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30945
At the rally, Hei, a frontliner who fled Hong Kong in 2020, shared his experiences and thoughts of his part in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.
"The 2019 Anti-ELAB movement happened very suddenly. Hongkongers did not learn how to protest when growing up," Hei said. "We the younger generation, in particular, were not taught about protests in school. Hong Kong did not have any violent protests before. Hongkongers are actually still full of love, especially after the events of 2019; we care very much about the people around us."
After all, the pro-democracy movement reflects Hongkongers' belonging to the city. Hei is one of them. "That year was also when I began to really identify with the name 'Hongkonger''," Hei recounted.
"Before that, I didn't really feel a sense of belonging, or feel any 'Hong Kong spirit' that was often mentioned on TV. Hong Kong people were all strangers going to school or work; we would never say hello."
"I couldn't represent all frontliners, though I could say that I had barely missed any protests in 2019," Hei looked back and said. "I was on Lion Rock. I went to the airport. Before the movement, I never thought going on a hike could be so meaningful."
Yet, the authorities' crackdown on pro-democracy protesters never stop. "Many of us, the frontliners who went on the streets over these 2 years, are now in prison," Hei said.
"Some escaped police and are have returned to their studies or work. Some have moved away from Hong Kong. Many peaceful-nonviolent protesters seem to think we've gone missing, and now pay attention only to political commentators, many of whom I don't know."
Hei urged Hongkongers not to forget why frontliners have to go into hiding, whether they want it or not. "Although we're no longer in the spotlight, I hope you haven't forgotten about us. Some of us are even sitting here right next to you. We had all been frontliners."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#Aug31 #831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
Part 2 coming up next
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating the police brutality victims of the 8.31 Prince Edward Station Attack by the police during the 2019 #AntiELAB movement.
Read more:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30945
At the rally, Hei, a frontliner who fled Hong Kong in 2020, shared his experiences and thoughts of his part in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.
"The 2019 Anti-ELAB movement happened very suddenly. Hongkongers did not learn how to protest when growing up," Hei said. "We the younger generation, in particular, were not taught about protests in school. Hong Kong did not have any violent protests before. Hongkongers are actually still full of love, especially after the events of 2019; we care very much about the people around us."
After all, the pro-democracy movement reflects Hongkongers' belonging to the city. Hei is one of them. "That year was also when I began to really identify with the name 'Hongkonger''," Hei recounted.
"Before that, I didn't really feel a sense of belonging, or feel any 'Hong Kong spirit' that was often mentioned on TV. Hong Kong people were all strangers going to school or work; we would never say hello."
"I couldn't represent all frontliners, though I could say that I had barely missed any protests in 2019," Hei looked back and said. "I was on Lion Rock. I went to the airport. Before the movement, I never thought going on a hike could be so meaningful."
Yet, the authorities' crackdown on pro-democracy protesters never stop. "Many of us, the frontliners who went on the streets over these 2 years, are now in prison," Hei said.
"Some escaped police and are have returned to their studies or work. Some have moved away from Hong Kong. Many peaceful-nonviolent protesters seem to think we've gone missing, and now pay attention only to political commentators, many of whom I don't know."
Hei urged Hongkongers not to forget why frontliners have to go into hiding, whether they want it or not. "Although we're no longer in the spotlight, I hope you haven't forgotten about us. Some of us are even sitting here right next to you. We had all been frontliners."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#Aug31 #831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
Part 2 coming up next
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📡Guardians of Hong Kong
#Solidarity
Hongkongers in Toronto Present Flowers at Prince Edward MTR Display in Memory of 8.31 Attack; Frontliner Shares Experiences of Protests, Encourages Supporters to Remain United
On August 31, 2021, Hongkongers gathered at Mel Lastman Square in…
Hongkongers in Toronto Present Flowers at Prince Edward MTR Display in Memory of 8.31 Attack; Frontliner Shares Experiences of Protests, Encourages Supporters to Remain United
On August 31, 2021, Hongkongers gathered at Mel Lastman Square in…
#Interview #Part2
Hong Kong Protester Recalls #Hongkongers' Kindness during Pro-democracy Movement
Photos: Netizen
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
Hong Kong Protester Recalls #Hongkongers' Kindness during Pro-democracy Movement
Photos: Netizen
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Interview #Part2
Hong Kong Protester Recalls #Hongkongers' Kindness during Pro-democracy Movement
Hei is a frontliner in Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement. He fled the city in 2020 and in Canada he shared his past experiences in a rally, commemorating the police brutality victims of the 8.31 Prince Edward Station Attack.
Read Part 1:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30959
"Sometimes when I'm working and helping people move house, I see posters of protesters in full gear; they looked just like me'," Hei said. All these bring back his memories of 2019.
"I actually didn't wear helmets very often; in later protests, I didn't even bring my gas mask. Many things go through my mind when I see images like this, some happy, some not so much."
After an emotional moment, Hei asked the rally participants, "If the fight for Hong Kong comes to us here one day, and us frontliners come out again to stand against injustice, will you still support us?"
At this time, the audience responded with loud clapping.
Inspired by the conscience of his coworker, Hei put his construction skills to use in protests.
Hei asked his audience again, "Do people here feel that construction workers are uneducated, or that their job is undesirable? When I was young, I thought that way. When I became a construction worker myself, I thought I would never let students block police batons for us, or leave it to them to fight against a totalitarian regime for the rights and freedom of people like me."
"I want to say that Hong Kong protesters included many students and white-collars, of course. But there are also blue-collar workers, such as construction workers like me, people who build bamboo scaffolding for a living."
"I was at the Chinede University of Hong Kong (#CUHK) during the siege, and helped build bamboo barricades at the No. 2 Bridge. [Editor's notes: Hong Kong Police fired over 1000 rounds of tear gas at protesters at this bridge in one night while attempting to breach into the campus] Where did the bamboo come from? They're from a kind-hearted scaffolding company who dropped off a truckload of bamboo at the campus, saying 'oh, we suddenly didn't need these anymore; we'll just leave these here.' We carried the bamboo from the front gate all the way over to No. 2 Bridge."
Hei then traced back to the moment he started to care about Hong Kong affairs, "The first protest I attended was June 16, 2019 - the '2 million plus one' march. The one who brought me was another construction worker. He didn't do very well in school, his jokes are crass, but he was a man with a conscience. He talked about how Hong Kong had been bullied every day by the Chinese regime, and even though I didn't care about politics at the time, he made me aware of these issues."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
Part 3 coming up next
Hong Kong Protester Recalls #Hongkongers' Kindness during Pro-democracy Movement
Hei is a frontliner in Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement. He fled the city in 2020 and in Canada he shared his past experiences in a rally, commemorating the police brutality victims of the 8.31 Prince Edward Station Attack.
Read Part 1:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30959
"Sometimes when I'm working and helping people move house, I see posters of protesters in full gear; they looked just like me'," Hei said. All these bring back his memories of 2019.
"I actually didn't wear helmets very often; in later protests, I didn't even bring my gas mask. Many things go through my mind when I see images like this, some happy, some not so much."
After an emotional moment, Hei asked the rally participants, "If the fight for Hong Kong comes to us here one day, and us frontliners come out again to stand against injustice, will you still support us?"
At this time, the audience responded with loud clapping.
Inspired by the conscience of his coworker, Hei put his construction skills to use in protests.
Hei asked his audience again, "Do people here feel that construction workers are uneducated, or that their job is undesirable? When I was young, I thought that way. When I became a construction worker myself, I thought I would never let students block police batons for us, or leave it to them to fight against a totalitarian regime for the rights and freedom of people like me."
"I want to say that Hong Kong protesters included many students and white-collars, of course. But there are also blue-collar workers, such as construction workers like me, people who build bamboo scaffolding for a living."
"I was at the Chinede University of Hong Kong (#CUHK) during the siege, and helped build bamboo barricades at the No. 2 Bridge. [Editor's notes: Hong Kong Police fired over 1000 rounds of tear gas at protesters at this bridge in one night while attempting to breach into the campus] Where did the bamboo come from? They're from a kind-hearted scaffolding company who dropped off a truckload of bamboo at the campus, saying 'oh, we suddenly didn't need these anymore; we'll just leave these here.' We carried the bamboo from the front gate all the way over to No. 2 Bridge."
Hei then traced back to the moment he started to care about Hong Kong affairs, "The first protest I attended was June 16, 2019 - the '2 million plus one' march. The one who brought me was another construction worker. He didn't do very well in school, his jokes are crass, but he was a man with a conscience. He talked about how Hong Kong had been bullied every day by the Chinese regime, and even though I didn't care about politics at the time, he made me aware of these issues."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
Part 3 coming up next
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📡Guardians of Hong Kong
#Interview #Hongkonger
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating…
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating…
#Interview #Hongkongers
The name '#frontliner' is a responsibility, because we'll always stand in front of all Hongkongers: Self-Exiled Protester Supports himself with work in #Canada
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
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The name '#frontliner' is a responsibility, because we'll always stand in front of all Hongkongers: Self-Exiled Protester Supports himself with work in #Canada
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
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⬇️⬇️
#Interview #Hongkongers
The name '#frontliner' is a responsibility, because we'll always stand in front of all Hongkongers: Self-Exiled Protester Supports himself with work in #Canada
Part 1:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30959
Part 2:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30969
At a rally held on August 31, 2021 in Toronto, Canada, Hei, a frontliner who fled Hong Kong in 2020, reflected on his experiences in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong
Read more:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30945
Hei told the rally participants, "Here in Canada, I hope you can take an extra step. Come out for demonstrations more often. Tell people around you, Chinese or otherwise, about what happened during those years, and Hong Kong's situation now."
Hei, self-exiled, talked about his diasporic experience in Canada, "Here in Toronto, I've worked for over 30 moving companies. All of them had Chinese owners. People kept telling me to be careful not to say so much about Hong Kong, but I can't. Those who know me know that I speak very frankly. When people ask where I'm from, I would always say: I'm a Hongkonger, I'm from Hong Kong."
"The next question they usually ask is: 'Did you get paid to go protesting?' I usually reply jokingly, 'I've been out dozens of times, and those 'foreign influences' still haven't paid me a single dime. Where are they anyway?'"
Hei also reminded all supporters of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, "Take care of your wallets; there are non-profits who had been raising money to support arrested protesters and pay for court fees. I think these are reasonable; please support them. You could always ask them where the money is going, and who it's helping. They can tell you."
"As for me, I don't need donations; I want job opportunities. If you need help moving, call me, or any of our frontliners who are here; we're all hard workers," Hei, though new to Canada, shows his perseverance in sustaining himself.
"All frontliners I've met are like this. They're all earning a living with their own hands; they live with their heads held high. These are our real brothers and sisters."
Hei also called for solidarity, which is something essential to fight against the united front. "I hope all organizations and supporters of the movement can remain united. Our opponent, Communist China, has incredible resources. We must use our own resources wisely."
Hei advised, "Also, equip yourselves, exercise and stay fit, work hard to survive and make a living. You have to be able to take care of yourself before you can take care of others."
Hei concluded, "The name 'frontliner' is sometimes a glorification, but more often it's a responsibility. This responsibility follows us for the rest of our lives, because we'll always be a Hongkonger. We'll always stand in front of all HongKongers."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#Aug31 #831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
The name '#frontliner' is a responsibility, because we'll always stand in front of all Hongkongers: Self-Exiled Protester Supports himself with work in #Canada
Part 1:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30959
Part 2:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30969
At a rally held on August 31, 2021 in Toronto, Canada, Hei, a frontliner who fled Hong Kong in 2020, reflected on his experiences in the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong
Read more:
https://t.me/guardiansofhongkong/30945
Hei told the rally participants, "Here in Canada, I hope you can take an extra step. Come out for demonstrations more often. Tell people around you, Chinese or otherwise, about what happened during those years, and Hong Kong's situation now."
Hei, self-exiled, talked about his diasporic experience in Canada, "Here in Toronto, I've worked for over 30 moving companies. All of them had Chinese owners. People kept telling me to be careful not to say so much about Hong Kong, but I can't. Those who know me know that I speak very frankly. When people ask where I'm from, I would always say: I'm a Hongkonger, I'm from Hong Kong."
"The next question they usually ask is: 'Did you get paid to go protesting?' I usually reply jokingly, 'I've been out dozens of times, and those 'foreign influences' still haven't paid me a single dime. Where are they anyway?'"
Hei also reminded all supporters of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, "Take care of your wallets; there are non-profits who had been raising money to support arrested protesters and pay for court fees. I think these are reasonable; please support them. You could always ask them where the money is going, and who it's helping. They can tell you."
"As for me, I don't need donations; I want job opportunities. If you need help moving, call me, or any of our frontliners who are here; we're all hard workers," Hei, though new to Canada, shows his perseverance in sustaining himself.
"All frontliners I've met are like this. They're all earning a living with their own hands; they live with their heads held high. These are our real brothers and sisters."
Hei also called for solidarity, which is something essential to fight against the united front. "I hope all organizations and supporters of the movement can remain united. Our opponent, Communist China, has incredible resources. We must use our own resources wisely."
Hei advised, "Also, equip yourselves, exercise and stay fit, work hard to survive and make a living. You have to be able to take care of yourself before you can take care of others."
Hei concluded, "The name 'frontliner' is sometimes a glorification, but more often it's a responsibility. This responsibility follows us for the rest of our lives, because we'll always be a Hongkonger. We'll always stand in front of all HongKongers."
Photo: Netizens #Aug31
Full video of the rally: https://www.facebook.com/CHKLink/videos/457215711939067
#Aug31 #831PrinceEdward #PoliceBrutality #hkdarkage #speakup4hk #831hk
Telegram
📡Guardians of Hong Kong
#Interview #Hongkonger
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating…
#Frontliner in Hong Kong Protest Speaks Up in #Canada: "Don't forget the frontliners even though they're no longer in the spotlight"
Part 1
On August 31, 2021, many Hongkongers assembled in a rally in Toronto, Canada, commemorating…
#Interview #StandNews
#EU ambassador in Hong Kong : Impact of #NationalSecurityLaw ripples beyond political groups to civil rights groups for women and labour
Source: Stand News #Dec10
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#EU ambassador in Hong Kong : Impact of #NationalSecurityLaw ripples beyond political groups to civil rights groups for women and labour
Source: Stand News #Dec10
Read more
⬇️⬇️⬇️
#Interview #StandNews
#EU ambassador in Hong Kong : Impact of #NationalSecurityLaw ripples beyond political groups to civil rights groups for women and labour
On the World Human Rights Day (December 10, 2021), Ambassador #ThomasGnocchi, Head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, told now-defunct online media outlet, Stand News that many civil rights groups in Hong Kong, which used to have close contact with the office, have been avoiding meetings with them for fear of being accused of "colluding with foreign forces”.
In 2021, many of the civil rights groups in Hong Kong disbanded and some left. Gnocchi admitted that it has become ever more difficult to seek partnership even with non-political groups for advocacy on issues like woman’s rights and labor rights.
We’ve seen, really, our ability to reach out diminished. We’ve had much less contact than we had in the past,” Gnocchi said.
“There are much less stakeholder groups, across political and civil spectrums, that are still willing to meet with us. These groups normally don’t have any national security concerns, but none wants to take any risk,” Gnocchi said many of these groups cited “play it safe” when declining meeting invitation.
Gnocchi indicated that the office is conscious of the situation in Hong Kong and it does not want to put anyone at risk. However, he emphasized that meetings with non-profit organisations are normal diplomatic activities, which shouldn't be restricted.
Having worked in Serbia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kosovo and other places, Gnocchi has witnessed the shrinking spaces in civil society in different places. He believes that the loss of civil society will throw negative impact on the entire country.
“Civil rights group has a vital role to play in raising public awareness [on various societal issues] and holding authorities accountable for their policies.” Not only those civil groups providing food, education, and medicine at the grassroots level should be protected, the authorities should also create space for policy advocacy groups.
Gnocchi stressed that, “in the EU, there are many groups that always criticize us, but their role is important.” He continued saying, “if civil society disappears, you lose one pillar of accountability. I think this is why we are so vocal about the role of civil society. I can only stress how important it is to maintain this space alive.”
Gnocchi acknowledged that he has witnessed many “inevitable changes” after the change in sovereignty in Hong Kong. Taking office after the implementation of National Security Law, Gnocchi regretted seeing growing oppression in this once the world’s freest society.
Continue with Part 2
#InternationalConcern
Source: Stand News #Dec10
#EU ambassador in Hong Kong : Impact of #NationalSecurityLaw ripples beyond political groups to civil rights groups for women and labour
On the World Human Rights Day (December 10, 2021), Ambassador #ThomasGnocchi, Head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, told now-defunct online media outlet, Stand News that many civil rights groups in Hong Kong, which used to have close contact with the office, have been avoiding meetings with them for fear of being accused of "colluding with foreign forces”.
In 2021, many of the civil rights groups in Hong Kong disbanded and some left. Gnocchi admitted that it has become ever more difficult to seek partnership even with non-political groups for advocacy on issues like woman’s rights and labor rights.
We’ve seen, really, our ability to reach out diminished. We’ve had much less contact than we had in the past,” Gnocchi said.
“There are much less stakeholder groups, across political and civil spectrums, that are still willing to meet with us. These groups normally don’t have any national security concerns, but none wants to take any risk,” Gnocchi said many of these groups cited “play it safe” when declining meeting invitation.
Gnocchi indicated that the office is conscious of the situation in Hong Kong and it does not want to put anyone at risk. However, he emphasized that meetings with non-profit organisations are normal diplomatic activities, which shouldn't be restricted.
Having worked in Serbia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kosovo and other places, Gnocchi has witnessed the shrinking spaces in civil society in different places. He believes that the loss of civil society will throw negative impact on the entire country.
“Civil rights group has a vital role to play in raising public awareness [on various societal issues] and holding authorities accountable for their policies.” Not only those civil groups providing food, education, and medicine at the grassroots level should be protected, the authorities should also create space for policy advocacy groups.
Gnocchi stressed that, “in the EU, there are many groups that always criticize us, but their role is important.” He continued saying, “if civil society disappears, you lose one pillar of accountability. I think this is why we are so vocal about the role of civil society. I can only stress how important it is to maintain this space alive.”
Gnocchi acknowledged that he has witnessed many “inevitable changes” after the change in sovereignty in Hong Kong. Taking office after the implementation of National Security Law, Gnocchi regretted seeing growing oppression in this once the world’s freest society.
Continue with Part 2
#InternationalConcern
Source: Stand News #Dec10