Ricker Choi: I have only become a Hongkonger since 2019

“I would say I am from Hong Kong, but wouldn’t say I am a Hongkonger.” Born in Hong Kong, artist and volunteer at Bonham Tree, Ricker Choi moved to Toronto with his family when he was 13 years old. In Canada, he was surrounded by “Hong Kong” — he listened to Cantopop, watched Hong Kong movies, and ate dim sum. Passionate about Hong Kong culture, however, Ricker did not feel like a Hongkonger. The city, for him, was merely a place where he lived.

When the handover of Hong Kong happened, he pessimistically thought it would turn into another Chinese city under the Chinese regime. His dislike of the regime had formed even before the Tiananmen Square Massacre in 1989. He still remembers visiting mainland China in his childhood: “My mum told me not to shoot my mouth off, or the police would get me.” Later, Ricker learnt about the terrible events from his family — the Great Leap Forward, the Cultural Revolution, organ trade, etc. — which confirmed his stance. Given his pessimism, when he saw the news of the million-people-strong march in Hong Kong, he was moved because “there’s finally hope for Hong Kong.”

The 2019 protests bridged Ricker with other Hongkongers, and that identity became something he is proud of. Being away from Hong Kong, painting and music were how Ricker marched with people in Hong Kong. “When my works were exhibited around the world, I felt I was deeply connected with other Hongkongers,” he said. To depict the protest scene, he spent four months composing the 13-minute piano solo Hong Kong Rhapsody. By contributing to making the world sympathise with those who marched on the streets, Ricker found himself under the radar of the regime. In 2022, the state-owned newspaper Wen Wei Po named Ricker a “separatist” who had committed crimes under the National Security Law. This essentially means Ricker will not be able to enter Hong Kong, but it has also strengthened his commitment as a Hongkonger. He understands the power of his works in “threatening” the Chinese Communist Party, further confirming his role in the movement.

“Liberate Hong Kong” became a popular protest slogan in 2019. For Ricker, “as an artist and musician, it means I can show and perform my protest works without thinking about getting arrested.” He cherishes his freedom to create works for Hong Kong. Nonetheless, he was once scared that his works would be out of touch with the experiences of Hongkongers in Hong Kong. Following the immigration wave, however, Ricker has heard migrated Hongkongers thanking overseas artists who have become a voice for those who cannot do so in Hong Kong. At the June 4th Memorial in 2023, newly arrived Hongkongers became tearful at an event full of protest artworks and candlelight — something that has become taboo in Hong Kong.

“I want to help the political prisoners in Hong Kong. We cannot forget their sacrifice for the democracy movement.” Beyond showcasing his works around the world, by auctioning his drawings, selling postcards, and participating in fundraising concerts, Ricker also raises money for organisations that support the Hong Kong democracy movement, including Bonham Tree Aid. Since the introduction of the National Security Law, many organisations have had their funds frozen. Bonham Tree is one of the few that continues to provide support for political prisoners. Gradually, Ricker has become a frequent volunteer at Bonham Tree and a pen friend to some comrades in jail. While trying to support those who are vulnerable and in need, Ricker realises his contribution can only be meagre.

Following the National Security Law and Article 23, a chilling effect has become unavoidable. Many fear that those who stay will restrain themselves from political participation and even avoid telling the truth to the next generation in order to “protect” them. As an overseas Hongkonger, Ricker believes: “I have the responsibility to speak up for Hong Kong with my art and music.” He is aware that those overseas may not have a clear understanding of the situation on the ground, but he still believes it is Hongkongers’ responsibility to insist on speaking up and to continue to “liberate Hong Kong.”

Story compiled and illustrated by @WL.AandD

Translator: Kai

@ricker_choi will perform in a large-scale music performance in Toronto, telling the stories of Hongkongers, and has already raised just under £30,000 for Bonham Tree Aid. 

** “Bonham Tree Aid” provides monthly humanitarian assistance of £380 (approximately HKD 3,800) to families of imprisoned protesters in need, easing the pressure on comrades’ families. Since its establishment in October 2021, more than HKD 12 million has been distributed to assist more than 200 families. 113 families are currently still on the waiting list and in urgent need of support.

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