In brief
Shiu Ka-chun, a dedicated social worker and former lawmaker in Hong Kong, died due to stomach cancer at the age of 55, leaving behind a profound legacy of activism and support for incarcerated protesters.
Shiu Ka-chun, a prominent figure in Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, passed away on Friday after a battle with stomach cancer, according to his wife Kelly Hui. He was 55. Mr. Shiu was well-known as a social worker, teacher, and civil rights activist who spent his later years advocating for those imprisoned during the government's crackdown on dissent that began in 2019.Born on June 3, 1969, in a working-class household, Mr. Shiu pursued social work at Hong Kong Baptist University and later taught the subject, earning recognition for his dynamic teaching style. His initial career focused on empowering youth and marginalized groups, and he became a prominent voice in discussions on social issues.In 2014, he played an active role in the Occupy Central protest movement, which sought democratic reforms for Hong Kong. He galvanized support from various sectors, particularly those with disabilities and those facing homelessness, urging inclusive conversations about democracy's meaning. His dedication led to his election as a lawmaker in 2016, where he championed issues such as poverty and welfare.However, his activism came with consequences. In 2019, he was sentenced to eight months in prison on public nuisance charges related to his involvement in Occupy Central. Following his release, he tirelessly supported fellow activists facing incarceration, ensuring their voices and needs were not forgotten in the political turmoil.Mr. Shiu's legacy as an advocate for human rights and social justice remains influential, leaving a lasting impact on future movements for democracy in Hong Kong.
