Chilling Impact on Artistic Expression

In a bold statement that has sent shockwaves through Hong Kong's artistic community, acclaimed playwright Candace Chong warns that actively seeking out 'soft resistance' threatens to stifle creativity and harm artists. Her comments come in the wake of a recent declaration by Culture Secretary Rosanna Law, who announced increased scrutiny on event subsidies and performance venues.

A Culture Under Surveillance

Chong expressed her anxiety in a Facebook post, highlighting how this focus on 'soft resistance'—an undefined term allegedly used to describe subtle forms of dissent—could lead to an oppressive environment where even the most benign artistic expressions are closely monitored. She fears that the relentless examination of every detail in creative works will create an atmosphere of mistrust and fear.

Countdown to National Security Law's Anniversary

This controversy comes just days before the five-year anniversary of the imposition of the national security law by Beijing, a measure that critics say has severely restricted freedoms in the city. In her interviews, Law categorized 'soft resistance' as potentially manifesting in performance content, song lyrics, or storytelling, necessitating government oversight on artistic endeavors.

Fear of Artistic Suppression

Chong articulated a dire concern: "When looking for 'soft resistance,' it turns into a campaign to unsettle artists. Officials may scrutinize our work to the point of oppressive oversight, leaving countless innocent voices and their creations misunderstood and silenced. Will my honest opinions also be deemed 'soft resistance'?"

The Price of Artistic Freedom

Known for her powerful scripts like 'The French Kiss,' and 'May 35th,' Chong's accolades include multiple Best Script awards at the Hong Kong Drama Awards. Yet, her success is shadowed by a stark reality: numerous cultural productions have faced sudden cancellations in recent years.

The Rise of Censorship

Since 2021, government officials have invoked 'soft resistance' as a national security concern, though its precise meaning remains murky. Security Chief Chris Tang revealed that a hotline for reporting suspected threats had received upward of 920,000 calls, further instilling a culture of fear.

An Eroding Cultural Landscape

Chong lamented the decline of artistic expression, noting that both visible cancellations and unseen pressures have created a hostile environment for creatives. High-profile cancellations include the abrupt termination of a school’s arrangement with a performing arts group and events being pulled from venues over the perceived political stance of artists.

Voices of Dissent are Stifled

In her poignant remarks, Chong echoes the fears of many: uncertainty surrounding 'soft resistance' has left artists and citizens alike too afraid to voice their thoughts. The erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong continues to loom large, overshadowing a once thriving cultural scene.

Support for Hong Kong's Creative Spirit

Chong's call to action invites solidarity within the artistic community and beyond, urging all to stand against the growing tide of censorship and oppression that threatens to silence their voices and artistic expressions.