Speech by Li Ming-ju ｜ June 4th 35th Anniversary Vigil

Hello everyone, I am Li Ming-ju, Deputy Executive Director of the JRF.

In 1989, I had not yet been born, and the JRF had not yet been established. It is hard for me to say that I can truly comprehend the courage of our predecessors in Tiananmen Square in 1989, but I believe that everyone who has gathered here at Liberty Square today to commemorate June 4th shares an identity and support for democracy and freedom that is fundamentally no different from that of the democratic predecessors of that era.

However, what kind of situation are we facing at this moment?

We are facing a reality where the Hong Kong government, based on the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance enacted pursuant to Article 23 of the Basic Law—the so-called National Security Ordinance—is truly and genuinely arresting the partners who have stood with us in safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.

Last week, the Hong Kong government detained the family and friends of attorney Chow Hang-tung on suspicion of "offences with seditious intention," simply because they published statements on Facebook supporting and commemorating June 4th. Only a little over two months after its implementation, the National Security Ordinance has already confirmed the international community's concerns that the Ordinance infringes upon human rights and suppresses civil society. This week, the JRF has issued statements in both Chinese and English, hoping that domestic and international voices will continue to call upon the Chinese regime and the Hong Kong government to halt the suppression of people's freedoms, and to thoroughly review the provisions of the National Security Ordinance that substantively suppress freedom of speech through vague elements, and procedurally deprive individuals of due process.

Today in Taiwan, we are still able to safely commemorate June 4th and voice our appeals. Yet, no egg remains unbroken when the nest is overturned; especially after Articles 37 and 38 of the National Security Act established extraterritorial effect, the Hong Kong government further added provisions in the National Security Ordinance that serve as a sweeping tool for cross-border repression against foreigners within and outside its territory, as well as Hongkongers abroad.

Even so, Taiwan must continue to support Hong Kong's freedom and democracy. In particular, this year marks the 10th anniversary of Taiwan's Sunflower Student Movement, as well as the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement and the 5th anniversary of Hong Kong's Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement. During those times, the democratic movements of Taiwan and Hong Kong engaged in vibrant exchanges, supporting and encouraging one another morally and through action.

We believe that the democratic movement is a long marathon. Only through persistence and steady, enduring efforts can we sustain our resistance. We hope that Taiwan can continue to provide such space and strength, working together with our regional partners.