After 6 years, Insights and Perspectives

In 2019, the anti-extradition bill movement, driven by the controversial amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance, struck Hong Kong like a bolt of lightning, disrupting the once tranquil society. This anti-extradition movement not only transformed Hong Kong’s political landscape but also had a profound impact on the lives and emotions of countless Hongkongers. Even as time passes, six years later, many Hongkongers still grapple with the emotional aftermath of the anti-extradition bill movement, struggling to move on from the painful shadows of those years, filled with sorrow for Hong Kong’s ongoing transformations.

Initially, this movement stemmed from concerns about the proposed amendments, with many schools launching joint petitions in hopes that the government would listen to public opinion. Students in Hong Kong, always full of vitality and independent thinking, actively participated, including those from renowned schools like La Salle College and St. Paul’s Co-educational College. However, the unfolding events surrounding these proposed amendments far exceeded expectations. On June 9th, millions of Hongkongers took to the streets, expressing strong dissatisfaction with the government’s amendments, but the government did not yield. On June 12th, I personally witnessed students being beaten until their heads were bleeding, the blood staining the streets red. Even more heartbreaking, one student suffered fractures in both legs, lying on the ground in agony, with his friends trying to carry him to the British Consulate, hoping to seek assistance from the British government. That scene remains vivid in my memory. On July 21st, the indiscriminate attacks by white-clad individuals in Yuen Long spread fear and distrust throughout society. On August 31st, the truth of the incident at Prince Edward Station remains elusive. I will never forget seeing paramedics kneeling on the ground, crying and begging the police to open the doors to allow them to help the injured. One cried, saying that the injured person was unresponsive and would die if they didn’t get help soon. At that moment, my heart broke. These scenes, like thorns, are deeply embedded in my memory. In 2020, the promulgation of the National Security Law was undoubtedly another heavy blow to Hong Kong society. This National Security Law had a tremendous impact on Hong Kong’s political, social, and freedom of speech, with the political environment rapidly tightening and dissenting voices being suppressed. At the same time, the UK launched the BNO Visa scheme, providing a path to emigration for Hongkongers. Facing Hong Kong’s immense changes, countless Hongkongers were caught in a dilemma of whether to stay or leave amid the political turmoil and societal unrest stemming from the amendments. The anti-extradition bill movement exacerbated the political divisions in Hong Kong society, forming clearly defined yellow and blue camps. People with different political stances were pitted against each other, even leading to the breakdown of family relationships. Once harmonious families argued incessantly over political disagreements, even severing ties. Many who truly loved Hong Kong chose to leave because they believed Hong Kong was no longer the same, with no freedom of speech and no trust between people. Even more heartbreaking, Hong Kong has undergone a “major blood change,” with reportedly less than half of the population being native Hongkongers. The home we knew has become unfamiliar. This transformation highlights the deep political rifts and societal changes in Hong Kong, emphasizing the feeling of loss among its residents. In this context, people are increasingly searching for a place where freedom of speech is upheld and trust can be rebuilt, showcasing the need for understanding and reconciliation in a city deeply divided. Hong Kong’s unique identity is facing challenges, urging discussions about its future, democracy, and social cohesion within the community. The ongoing dialogue around these themes is vital for anyone invested in the future of Hong Kong and its residents. Six years have passed, and many Hongkongers who have emigrated to the UK still cannot forget the experiences of 2019. Whenever they hear the songs from that time, such as “Glory to Hong Kong,” they still feel moved; whenever they see the photos from that time, they still can’t help but shed tears. At the protest at the Royal Mint in the UK, we saw the clothing of the Hongkongers; they still carried the shadows of 2019 – black clothing, masks – as if time had never passed. They are unwilling to forget that history, even more unwilling to forget their love for Hong Kong.

We don’t want to forget the beauty of Hong Kong in the past, that free and vibrant place. Hong Kong was once a city full of opportunities, nurturing numerous celebrities such as Bruce Lee and Leslie Cheung, whose names are the pride of Hong Kong culture. Hong Kong’s education was once a model for Asia, with higher education institutions such as the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong nurturing countless talents. However, today’s Hong Kong, even the wording has changed. The vocabulary of Hong Kongers used to be rich and diverse, full of unique Hong Kong-style humor and creativity, but now the language is becoming increasingly uniform and official. Hong Kong is still a vibrant city, but it faces challenges as its identity evolves, and we must remember the beauty of Hong Kong as it once was. The vibrant culture of Hong Kong deserves to be celebrated and preserved, echoing the creative spirit of its past. Post-2019 Hong Kong is a wound that is difficult to heal for many. We may be in a foreign land, but our hearts are still tied to Hong Kong. We hope that the future of Hong Kong can regain freedom and hope, and we will always remember those lost beautiful times. We call on everyone to cherish the history and culture of Hong Kong, while remembering the values of Hong Kong’s past, ensures that the Hong Kong spirit can be passed down from generation to generation. No matter where we are, we are proud Hongkongers, and we will never forget our roots and heritage. Together, we celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of Hong Kong, reaffirming our identity as Hongkongers who cherish our unique traditions and values.

For many, remembering Hong Kong’s rich past is a source of pride, as it was once a cultural hub where creativity flourished. Let’s unite to cherish the beauty of Hong Kong and ensure that its vibrant culture remains alive, honoring the spirit of Hong Kong that continues to inspire us. The legacy of Hong Kong will thrive through our collective efforts to safeguard its vibrant history and culture so that future generations can experience the vibrant and free atmosphere that once defined Hong Kong. It is essential to support the vibrant cultural scene in Hong Kong, where art, music, and community come together to create a unique identity. Though we recognize that Hong Kong’s vibrancy has diminished, with influences from mainland China increasingly overshadowing its unique culture and identity, many feel that the city has lost its hope for revival. To foster the revival of Hong Kong, we must advocate for continued cultural preservation, promote local artists, celebrate traditional festivals, and invest in community-driven initiatives that prioritize the city’s creative expression. By engaging with the rich heritage of Hong Kong, exploring diverse artistic expressions, and supporting cultural events, we can collectively strive to restore the hope and vibrancy that define this iconic city. Together, let’s ensure that Hong Kong’s unique identity, cultural diversity, and artistic legacy are recognized and cherished for generations to come.