The Power of Hundreds Mourn HK's Rights Champion Shiu Ka-chun This title highlights the impact that one person, Shiu Ka-chun, had on many others (hundreds) in Hong Kong and beyond. The use of Power emphasizes the significant influence he had on the human rights landscape in Hong Kong.

The Power of Hundreds Mourn HK's Rights Champion Shiu Ka-chun

As I reflect on the life and legacy of Shiu Ka-chun, Hong Kong's most prominent advocate for prisoners' rights, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and admiration. His passing last month at the age of 55 has left a significant void that can never be filled.

The Life and Legacy of Shiu Ka-chun

Shiu was a dedicated social worker and university lecturer who rose to prominence during Hong Kong's 2014 Umbrella Movement, a civil disobedience campaign pushing for genuine elections. His tireless efforts led to his imprisonment for 163 days, which he used as an opportunity to champion the cause of prisoners' rights.

After his release, Shiu founded Wall-fare, a support group that helped families navigate the complex prison bureaucracy. This organization was credited with helping thousands of people affected by Hong Kong's 2019 protests.

The Lasting Impact of Shiu Ka-chun

Shiu's work extended far beyond the walls of prisons. He inspired a new generation of activists to take up the cause of prisoners' rights, including Wong, who was part of his pen pal program. He was the reason I became interested in prisoners' rights... he made me want to do more, even though I might not be able to change much, Wong said.

Shiu also arranged for books to be mailed to prisoners, making prison life more bearable. His commitment to society and his Christian faith were admirable qualities that inspired many.

The Legacy That Lives On

Wall-fare shut down in 2021 after Hong Kong's security chief accused it of endangering national security. However, Shiu's legacy lives on through the countless people he touched and inspired during his lifetime.

Veterans from Hong Kong's pro-democracy camp, including Cardinal Joseph Zen and barrister Margaret Ng, paid tribute to Shiu's memory at a memorial service. His books, along with keepsakes from his lawmaker and lecturer days, were displayed at the ceremony.

In his final months, Shiu wrote about his struggle with cancer, saying he was losing weight, not faith. He believed that joy and suffering are two extremes and both are necessary to life.

Conclusion

Shiu Ka-chun's passing leaves a significant void in Hong Kong's human rights landscape. However, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of activists to come. His dedication to prisoners' rights and his commitment to society are qualities that we can all learn from.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable individual, we must also celebrate his life and legacy. Shiu's story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference in the world.

Influential Quotes

He was the reason I became interested in prisoners' rights... he made me want to do more, even though I might not be able to change much. - Wong
He devoted himself because of his Christian faith and his commitment to society. That's very admirable. - Chiang
Joy and suffering are two extremes and both are necessary to life. - Shiu Ka-chun

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.