On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the June Fourth Incident, the “Hong Kong People in Germany Association” held candlelight vigils in five cities including Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Munich to commemorate freedom, democracy, and human rights. Participants included people from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and mainland China, aiming to raise awareness in German society about the Chinese Communist Party’s human rights abuses and its threats to global security.
The event on June 4, 2024 in Germany attracted not only young participants from Hong Kong and Taiwan but also many individuals from mainland China, especially those who had recently left the country, with some openly declaring their withdrawal from various Communist Party organizations.
Prior to the event, the Hong Kong People in Germany Association (Verein Hongkonger in Deutschland e.V.) issued a statement condemning the massacre of civilians by the Chinese Communist Party, emphasizing the enduring spirit of June Fourth. The statement highlighted:
“Thirty-five years ago on June Fourth, the CCP carried out a massacre in Tiananmen Square, crushing a peaceful student movement. People have not forgotten the courage of those who perished, and the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights they advocated continue to inspire the world.”
Following June Fourth, Hong Kong has annually held candlelight vigils at Victoria Park to mourn the victims slaughtered by the CCP. However, with the enactment of the Hong Kong National Security Law in 2020 and Article 23, the Chinese government has brutally suppressed basic freedoms and rights in Hong Kong. Freedom of assembly has been completely abolished, and the political reality and way of life in Hong Kong are deteriorating.
The statement urged never to forget June Fourth and called for a joint commemoration of the victims of the Tiananmen Square massacre in the five cities of Germany, standing up for democracy and human rights in China.
Mr. Lu, a doctoral student from the mainland, expressed his long-standing desire to commemorate the June Fourth massacre, stating, “I finally came to Germany, with its relaxed freedom of speech, and I must come to witness this day.” Despite having to work overtime that evening, Mr. Lu insisted on attending, deeply moved by the bravery of the individuals during that era.
Arriving at the venue, Mr. Lu marveled at the courage of those from the 1989 pro-democracy movement, contrasting their actions with the passivity of current university students. He expressed admiration for the Hong Kong residents advocating for freedom and democracy, hoping for a similar awakening among mainland Chinese towards democracy.
Mr. Lu noted the stark contrast between the two systems in Germany and mainland China, citing the freedom to access information and express opinions without censorship in Germany, a stark contrast to the restrictions in China.
Ms. Y, a mainland Chinese youth, passing by Maria Square in Munich, became emotional upon learning the truth about June Fourth and feeling a sense of longing for a home she cannot return to.
Mr. Ma, born in Germany to mainland Chinese parents, visited the event, appreciating the attention and concern shown by many German citizens towards the activities at Maria Square.
Mr. A, a mainland Chinese working in Germany, coincidentally stumbled upon the event while returning from work, acknowledging the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully rather than resorting to violence.
Mr. Liang from Taiwan, after researching and finding information about the event, felt compelled to attend for the first time, expressing concerns about the situations in Hong Kong and mainland China.
Visiting Munich, Mr. Lin from Malaysia appreciated the opportunity to witness the memorial event in a foreign land, expressing his opposition to dictatorship and support for freedom of speech. Witnessing the displays, he was moved by the historical significance and the lessons to be learned from such events.
In conclusion, the event in Germany serves as a platform for individuals from various backgrounds to unite in commemorating the June Fourth Incident, fostering discussions on democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression, echoing sentiments of remembrance, empathy, and advocacy for a more just and open society.