Support Comrades Despite Escalating Suppression

KK, an Individual Providing Support for the Incarcerated:

"I have to help. There's no time to be afraid."

Is there a reconciliation in Hong Kong after the Anti-Extradition Bill movement? Many observers have pointed out that it is nowhere near. Even though some members of the pro-establishment camp have called for assistance for arrested youths to reintegrate into society, the relentless crackdown led by John Lee and Chris Tang’s administration means a reconciliation is not possible. Beyond carrying a criminal record that results in disqualification from their professions or failing background checks for new jobs, many comrades who were already working professionals before their imprisonment now face additional hurdles to rebuilding their careers.

With nearly 3,000 protest-related cases having either been completed or are undergoing trial since the Anti-Extradition Bill movement in 2019, those who were sentenced earlier are gradually being released. However, it has become increasingly difficult for released comrades to seek assistance given the disappearance of civil society and the migration wave. Even for a handful of organisations that have the resources, it is difficult to connect with those in need in today's Hong Kong where repression has become more severe.

KK, an ordinary person like us who would not catch anyone’s attention on the street, has been acting as a bridge between those in need and those who can help. Over the past few years, KK has assisted numerous comrades in applying for emergency aid from the Bonham Tree. Despite the daily risks of being targeted by the authorities, KK continues to extend a lifeline to many comrades behind bars, hoping to ease their path back into society upon release.

Having handled numerous cases, KK finds that financial aid remains the most critical form of support. When the source of income is lost both during and after incarceration, it is not surprising that there is a massive economic burden shouldered by both the incarcerated and their families.

"The difficulties faced after release are no less severe than those behind bars. In fact, the invisible oppression continues to surround Hongkongers who hold views opposing the government."

Reports indicate that some individuals involved in politically sensitive cases have had their bank accounts frozen even after their release, making it impossible for them to open new accounts elsewhere. This situation has persisted beyond the peak of the movement and continues to this day, demonstrating that political persecution has never subsided. Unlike government officials whose hundreds of thousands of dollars of salary are not affected despite the overseas sanctions, former protesters unable to access banking services are often left with no choice but to work cash-based jobs. These jobs are mostly low-skilled, blue-collar positions that do not compare to their previous careers in teaching, IT, or other professional fields.

Comrades are facing impossible choices.

The Cantonese saying "When the horse dies, get off!" suggests resilience in adversity, but those with families to support have no choice but to abandon their careers and ideals. Some may suggest that comrades move abroad for a fresh start. However, having a criminal record complicates the process of leaving Hong Kong, not to mention the emotional and family considerations of leaving a place that one calls home. According to KK, many of these comrades can only dream for circumstances to change. While the dream has not arrived, both the financial and psychological strains have intensified.

Beyond long-term unemployment and obstacles in job hunting, some comrades even face difficulties withdrawing their remaining bank funds after release. The process of dealing with banks to unfreeze accounts is mentally exhausting. "I help them apply for Bonham Tree Aid while they are still incarcerated, hoping to set aside some financial buffer. That way, they won't be left completely empty-handed and helpless when they get out."

Yellow Economic Circle" (businesses sympathetic to the protest movement) was once vibrant in Hong Kong during the social movement. However, this is not the case after the pandemic as the retail and food industries have suffered severe blows. Stores associated with the "Yellow Economic Circle" have disappeared in large numbers. KK laments: "The biggest impact of the disappearance of “yellow shops” is the loss of community solidarity among like-minded people." Fortunately, KK’s friends all share similar beliefs, and many of the comrades he has helped remain in contact. This has enabled KK to continue to help former protesters who are in need of adjusting psychologically and healing from the trauma of the movement and legal battles.

The worsened economy and emigration of the middle class mean that the level of attention and resources available for incarcerated comrades has significantly diminished. Whether fundraising on an individual basis or through organizations like Bonham Tree Aid, the difficulty has increased compared to two or three years ago. The wave of closures among “yellow shops” reflects Hong Kong's current economic reality. KK adds: "On the surface, society appears calm, but nothing has improved beneath the surface. There are still over 600 political prisoners behind bars—we, the people, should not forget or ignore them just a few years after the movement."

Under the threat of draconian laws, even applying for financial aid from Bonham Tree Aid carries legal risks. Yet, KK continues to assist comrades, some of whom he has never met before. Why does he persist in doing it? KK simply says: "I have to help. There's no time to be afraid."

The wave of protests may have receded for now, but the comrades who made enormous sacrifices still face an uncertain road ahead. In this difficult time, how do we move forward? Perhaps the best way is for each of us to contribute in our own ways, just as KK does, standing with comrades and our past selves.