In brief
Shiu Ka-chun, a former social worker, activist, and lawmaker in Hong Kong, dedicated his life to advocating for the incarcerated and underprivileged. After facing imprisonment himself due to his activism, he redirected his efforts toward supporting others who faced similar challenges. He passed away at 55 due to stomach cancer.
Shiu Ka-chun, a former social worker and pro-democracy lawmaker in Hong Kong who devoted his final years to supporting imprisoned activists, has passed away at the age of 55. His wife, Kelly Hui, confirmed that he died Friday in a hospital from stomach cancer.Born on June 3, 1969, to a working-class family, Shiu Ka-chun pursued a degree in social work at Hong Kong Baptist University and embarked on a career dedicated to helping marginalized communities. In 2007, he began teaching social work at the same university, where he gained recognition for his engaging and thought-provoking lectures. Shiu's writing, which delved into social issues through philosophical and sociological lenses, reached a broad audience.His activism took root in the 2014 Occupy Central movement, advocating for democratic reforms in Hong Kong. Shiu was instrumental in mobilizing social workers and community members to understand and voice their demands for democracy. He created safe spaces for dialogue, particularly for individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and homelessness to express their hopes and concerns regarding democracy.In 2016, Shiu was elected as a lawmaker and focused on critical social issues affecting his constituents, including poverty and the welfare of the elderly and disabled. However, his commitment to activism led to his conviction in 2019 for public nuisance related to the Occupy Central protests, resulting in an eight-month prison sentence.Following his release, he became a vital advocate for those jailed during the national security crackdown that began in late 2019. Shiu's efforts connected countless individuals while addressing the pressing needs of those affected by political strife.Shiu Ka-chun's life remains a poignant reminder of resilience, compassion, and the enduring struggle for justice in Hong Kong.
