Lee Cheuk-yan is a prominent figure in Hong Kong's labor movement and democracy advocacy who dedicated over four decades to championing workers' rights and democratic values. He graduated from the University of Hong Kong in 1978. [1] Instead of pursuing a career in civil engineering, he chose to serve grassroots workers in his early role, providing support to injured workers and their families in industrial accidents. [2] Lee later joined the Hong Kong Christian Industrial Committee, playing a crucial role in organizing workers demanding fair treatment amid economic transformations. [3]

As Lee became increasingly involved in social and democratic movements, he transitioned into politics and was elected as a lawmaker in 1995. Re-electing four times, he served the Legislative Council for over 20 years. [4] Lee was not only the General Secretary of the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (香港職工會聯盟) but also the co-founder of the Labour Party (工黨). [5] Throughout his political career, he remained a resolute advocate for the underprivileged, emphasizing the empowerment of the poor and oppressed.

The turning point in Lee's life came during the Tiananmen Square Massacre in 1989. He traveled to Beijing, representing the people of Hong Kong, to support strike students, witnessing the atrocities first-hand. This experience solidified his commitment to telling the truth about June 4th, even if it meant personal sacrifices. He was detained by Chinese authorities and compelled to sign a confession letter before being released to Hong Kong. [6] Lee has since remained a standing committee member of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China (香港市民支援愛國民主運動聯合會; Hong Kong Alliance), actively promoting democratic reform in China. [7]

Lee actively participated in the 2019 pro-democracy movement, leading him to face another three charges for unauthorized assemblies in June 2020. He endured a total of 20 months in prison due to his involvement in peaceful protests, including three rallies in 2019 and the June 4 vigil. [8] After serving his sentences, he currently remains in pre-trial detention under a National Security Law charge of “inciting subversion” related to his role in the Hong Kong Alliance. [9] The National Security Police froze HK$ 2.2 million in Alliance assets. [10]

Photos: Lee Cheuk-yan Facebook