In brief
Shiu was a prominent voice for democracy, deeply involved in social work and legislative advocacy, and tirelessly supported incarcerated protesters.
Shiu Ka-chun, a distinguished former social worker and pro-democracy lawmaker in Hong Kong, passed away on Friday at the age of 55 due to stomach cancer, as confirmed by his wife, Kelly Hui. His life was marked by a fervent dedication to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, as well as unflinching activism that led to his own imprisonment.Born on June 3, 1969, to a working-class family in Hong Kong, Shiu completed his studies in social work at Hong Kong Baptist University. Following his graduation, he began his career as a social worker, primarily focusing on youth support initiatives. His journey eventually led him to the classroom, where he taught social work at the very university he attended, earning respect for his engaging teaching style.Shiu's commitment to social justice intensified during the rise of the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. He played an integral role in the 2014 Occupy Central with Love and Peace movement, advocating for democratic elections in the Chinese territory. His activism was characterized by inclusive outreach efforts, particularly toward vulnerable communities, enabling dialogues that framed the meaning of democracy for various societal groups.In 2016, Shiu was elected as a lawmaker, where he concentrated on welfare issues, including poverty alleviation, homelessness, and improving conditions for the elderly and disabled. However, his political activism culminated in legal troubles; in 2019, he was sentenced to eight months in prison for public nuisance related to his involvement in the Occupy Central movement.Following his release, Shiu transformed his own experiences of incarceration into a platform to support fellow activists who faced imprisonment during the crackdown on dissent. His writing, based on philosophical and sociological reflections, provided insights into the struggles faced by individuals behind bars. His legacy as an advocate for civil rights and social justice will continue to inspire future generations.
