Shiu Ka-chun, a prominent advocate for prisoners and civil rights in Hong Kong, died on January 10, 2025, after a battle with stomach cancer. The 55-year-old former lawmaker and social worker spent his final years tirelessly working on behalf of those caught in the web of political suppression following the 2019 national security crackdown.
Shiu Ka-chun, Beloved Advocate for Justice in Hong Kong, Passes Away at 55
Shiu Ka-chun, Beloved Advocate for Justice in Hong Kong, Passes Away at 55
A dedicated social worker and pro-democracy figure, Shiu Ka-chun devoted his life to uplifting marginalized voices in Hong Kong before succumbing to cancer.
Shiu was a pivotal figure in the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong. Born on June 3, 1969, he grew up in a working-class family and later earned a degree in social work from Hong Kong Baptist University. He initially carved out a career helping youths before transitioning into academia as a passionate educator, where he was noted for his insightful lectures that combined social issues with philosophical discourse.
His activism took root during the 2014 Occupy Central movement, where he played an influential role in promoting civil disobedience and advocating for democratic reforms in the territory. Shiu's commitment to social justice led him to engage marginalized communities, including people with disabilities and the homeless, facilitating discussions on the implications of democracy for their lives.
In 2016, he ascended to the role of lawmaker, championing issues such as poverty alleviation and welfare reforms. However, his activism came with consequences; in 2019, he was convicted of public nuisance charges related to the Occupy Central protests and sentenced to eight months behind bars. After his release, he became an essential ally for those who faced incarceration after the crackdown.
Shiu's dedication and tireless efforts to support the imprisoned protestors leave behind a lasting legacy. His wife, Kelly Hui, mourns his passing, reflecting on the profound impact he had on countless lives while advocating for a more just society in Hong Kong.
His activism took root during the 2014 Occupy Central movement, where he played an influential role in promoting civil disobedience and advocating for democratic reforms in the territory. Shiu's commitment to social justice led him to engage marginalized communities, including people with disabilities and the homeless, facilitating discussions on the implications of democracy for their lives.
In 2016, he ascended to the role of lawmaker, championing issues such as poverty alleviation and welfare reforms. However, his activism came with consequences; in 2019, he was convicted of public nuisance charges related to the Occupy Central protests and sentenced to eight months behind bars. After his release, he became an essential ally for those who faced incarceration after the crackdown.
Shiu's dedication and tireless efforts to support the imprisoned protestors leave behind a lasting legacy. His wife, Kelly Hui, mourns his passing, reflecting on the profound impact he had on countless lives while advocating for a more just society in Hong Kong.
