In brief
Shiu Ka-chun, a former social worker and prominent pro-democracy figure in Hong Kong, died on Friday at the age of 55 due to stomach cancer. His wife, Kelly Hui, confirmed the news, sharing the details of his passing in a hospital. Shiu had a long-standing commitment to advocating for marginalized communities, which culminated in his active involvement in the pro-democracy movement and his support for prisoners following a severe crackdown on dissent that began in 2019.
Born on June 3, 1969, Shiu was raised in a working-class family in Hong Kong. His academic journey began at Hong Kong Baptist University, where he studied social work and eventually became a lecturer. His engaging teaching style and insightful commentary through newspaper columns established him as a respected voice on social issues.He played a pivotal role in the 2014 Occupy Central protests, which aimed at securing democratic elections for Hong Kong. Shiu galvanized social workers to participate and championed the voices of the disabled, homeless, and vulnerable communities during these protests. His political career peaked in 2016 when he was elected as a legislator, advocating for social welfare and addressing pressing issues like poverty and housing.However, Shiu's activism led to legal repercussions, and in 2019 he was sentenced to eight months in prison for public nuisance related to his role in Occupy Central. His experience in incarceration only strengthened his resolve to support others facing similar challenges in the wake of the government's clampdown on dissent.His death marks a significant loss for many in Hong Kong, as his passion for justice and advocacy for the oppressed have left an indelible mark on both the political landscape and on the hearts of those he fought for.
