Ticket To Taiwan
How a church in Taiwan has become a lifeline for pro-democracy activists fleeing Hong Kong
Cindy Sui discovers how the Chi-Nan Presbyterian Church in central Taipei has been helping Hong Kong activists who’ve fled to Taiwan since the introduction of the national security law.
The Lunar New Year is a time when families usually come together and celebrate, but the Hong Kongers that Cindy meets are unable to return to their homeland, instead finding support and a sense of community at the church which offers a service in Cantonese.
The Chi-Nan Presbyterian Church here in Taiwan has a history of supporting pro-democracy activism. During the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, it organised a collection of US$160,000 worth of protective gear (gas masks, helmets, bulletproof vests, eye protection) which was shipped over to frontline activists.
Upon arrival in Taiwan, many political refugees reach out to the church for help with temporary accommodation. In addition to spiritual support, the church meets their medical, psychological and social needs.
Cindy uncovers why a large proportion of the activists who first fled to Taiwan have now left the country. Others are in visa limbo. Many suffer from PTSD.
