In September, Vincent Lam, former vice convenor of Hong Kong’s Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF), organised an exhibition in London titled “Behind the Struggle.” The exhibition showcased numerous T-shirts related to various protests in Hong Kong, including the Umbrella Movement in 2014, the Anti-Extradition Law Movement in 2019, as well as other significant protest events such as the 1989 Tiananmen Square commemoration and labour strikes in Hong Kong.
Lam, who fled to the UK three years ago, curated the exhibition to remind the world of Hong Kong’s ongoing fight for democracy and justice. He emphasised that the 2014 and 2019 movements were the culmination of more than two decades of struggle by Hongkongers. The display not only focused on major protests but also highlighted labour struggles and the defence of local communities like Tsoi Yuen Tsuen.
Lam expressed regret about the breakdown of civic society in Hong Kong. He discussed the alteration of protest sites such as the Legislative Council, as well as the elimination of major opposition symbols. Despite this, he advised the diaspora not to give up hope, citing how, even during terrible times, Hongkongers continued to come for the June 4th vigil, exhibiting determination in the face of oppression.
Lam’s commitment to social justice dates back to his student days. He was involved in the “Democratic Power” movement and founded a union for legislative assistants in 2016, advocating for fair wages. After the crackdown on the pro-democracy primary election in 2021, Lam fled Hong Kong for his safety, settling in London.
Despite recent attacks on him by pro-establishment media, Lam remains resolute. He encourages Hongkongers abroad to keep speaking out against the injustices in their home city. For him, the exhibition was a small contribution to the ongoing struggle for freedom, and he believes that as long as people continue to act on their beliefs, meaningful change will come.