Unmissable: Taipei Unveils Powerful Exhibition Highlighting Hong Kong's Fight for Freedom

Taipei, April 6 - The National 228 Memorial Museum is currently hosting the second edition of the Hong Kong Human Rights Art Exhibition, designed to shed light on the ongoing struggles for democracy and freedom faced by activists in Hong Kong. This important exhibition opened on April 1 and will be on display until June 29.

At a press conference held on Sunday, guests included prominent figures such as museum director Na Su-phok, human rights advocate Lee Ming-che, and Lai Jung-wei, leader of the New School for Democracy. Members of the Hong Kong Outlanders, a group formed by young Hong Kong democracy activists in Taiwan during the 2019 protests against the controversial extradition bill, also attended.

One of the group members, known as "Futong," expressed a poignant sentiment: "It is unfathomable how freedoms in Hong Kong have degraded." He emphasized the importance of the exhibition as a reminder for people not to take their freedoms for granted. “We must reflect upon Taiwan's democracy and freedom and ensure it does not become the next Hong Kong,” he added passionately.

Futong also urged fellow Hong Kongers to visit the exhibition, instilling hope in them despite the arduous journey ahead. Sky Fung, the chairman of the Hong Kong Outlanders, elaborated on the motivations of those who have migrated to Taiwan. He explained that they did not flee simply to escape the turmoil in Hong Kong but sought a sanctuary of freedom where they could collaborate with Taiwanese citizens in resisting oppressive regimes.

The exhibition features a compelling collection of art, including photographs, paintings, and emotional displays of letters penned by activists and political prisoners in Hong Kong during their incarceration. These heartfelt messages tell gripping stories of personal sacrifice and resilience from a multitude of perspectives, reflecting the ongoing battle for human rights.

Among the standout pieces is "An Apple a Day," a striking installation made from the final edition of the now-defunct Apple Daily, which was forced to shut down after the Hong Kong government cited violations of the National Security Law, further cementing the curtailment of press freedoms. This poignant artwork serves as a chilling reminder of the voices stifled under authoritarian rule.

Don’t miss this impactful exhibition that not only chronicles the current fight for Hong Kong's freedoms but also urges visitors to contemplate the fragility of democracy. The show is a must-see for anyone who champions human rights and values freedom, making it a powerful reminder that voices must not be silenced.