A Hong Kong Dissident’s Fight for Freedom | Carmen Lau

Silvana Quispetupa  | 05 de abril de 2024  | Vistas: 14

In the seventh edition of the College Freedom Forum, held at Universidad Francisco Marroquín, the activist Carmen Lau vividly recounts her journey through the events that have shaped Hong Kong's recent history.

We were back stronger and more united in resistance." — Carmen Lau

Lau reflected on the iconic image from the 2019 anti-extradition movement, which sparked widespread protests across Hong Kong. Then, she reminisces about a simpler time before Hong Kong's rapid development and the handover to Chinese rule in 1997. She recalls her involvement in the Umbrella Movement of 2014, where she first experienced the brutality of tear gas and witnessed the power of collective resistance.

As the protests intensified in 2019, Lau found herself on the front lines, advocating for democracy alongside her pro-democracy colleagues. Despite facing threats and violence from the police, she remained undeterred, recognizing the importance of continuing the fight for Hong Kong's future.

I always imagine a free and democratic Hong Kong." — Carmen Lau

Lau recounts the fear and uncertainty that gripped Hong Kong during that time, forcing her to make the difficult decision to flee to London. Despite the challenges, Lau remains hopeful for Hong Kong's future, envisioning a free and democratic society where she can reunite with her loved ones and live without fear of repression. She calls on the international community to stand in solidarity with Hong Kong, urging allies to resist the influence of the Chinese Communist Party and support the struggle for freedom and democracy.

I'm determined to dedicate my life to prove the existence of Hong Kong." — Carmen Lau

In closing, Lau reaffirms her dedication to the cause, vowing to continue advocating for the values and beliefs that she holds dear. Her words serve as a rallying cry for all those who refuse to give up on Hong Kong's fight for justice and autonomy.