Worldwide Premiere of “The Hong Konger” to Focus Attention on Jimmy Lai’s Activism for Democracy and Human Rights in Hong Kong

The award-winning documentary is now available to watch at FreeJimmyLai.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GRAND RAPIDS (APRIL 19, 2023) — The Acton Institute’s latest feature documentary, “The Hong Konger: Jimmy Lai’s Extraordinary Struggle for Freedom,” made its world premiere online at FreeJimmyLai.com at 8 p.m. ET on April 18, 2023.

The award-winning documentary, produced by the Acton Institute, tells the story of Hong Kong businessman and pro-democracy advocate Jimmy Lai, who is currently imprisoned on charges related to Hong Kong’s Beijing-imposed National Security Law (NSL). It offers a glimpse into Lai’s life, from fleeing communist China for Hong Kong to his rise as a successful businessman and media mogul—and his unrelenting activism for human rights and democracy in Hong Kong.

Featuring interviews with Lai’s friends and colleagues, as well as footage of his speeches and public appearances, the film provides an intimate portrait of Lai and his unwavering commitment to the cause of democracy and human rights in Hong Kong.

The Acton Institute’s president emeritus and friend of Jimmy Lai, Rev. Robert A. Sirico, expressed the importance of the film, stating, “We are proud to bring this powerful and timely documentary to a global audience. The story of Jimmy Lai’s fight for freedom is an inspiration to all who value human dignity and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for democracy, not only in Hong Kong, but across the world.”

“The Hong Konger” sheds light on Lai’s persecution and imprisonment for speaking out against the Chinese Communist Party’s tightening grip on Hong Kong and fighting for the rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers.

The film won “Best Documentary” at the 2022 Anthem Libertarian Film Festival and “Best Feature Documentary: Social Rights Subject” at the 2023 American Filmatic Arts Awards.

The full 73-minute film is now available for viewing on demand at FreeJimmyLai.com.

For interviews, contact Eric Kohn: ekohn@acton.org.

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ABOUT “THE HONG KONGER”:

THE HONG KONGER: JIMMY LAI’S EXTRAORDINARY STRUGGLE FOR FREEDOM is a documentary by the Acton Institute. When Hong Kong’s basic freedoms come under attack, newspaper publisher and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai finds himself in the crosshairs of the state and must choose between defending Hong Kong’s long-standing liberties and his own freedom. The award-winning film debuted globally on April 18, 2023. The film and other information are available at FreeJimmyLai.com.

ABOUT THE ACTON INSTITUTE:

The Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ecumenical think tank located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 1990, the Institute works internationally to “promote a free and virtuous society characterized by individual liberty and sustained by religious principles.” For more information, visit acton.org.