Parliamentarians and Hong Kong Watch Patrons host launch reception of Hong Kong Watch Canada
The official launch of Hong Kong Watch Canada was successfully held on May 30th, 2023 on Parliament Hill. Among around 100 guests in attendance were 20 parliamentarians and former Hong Kong Legislative Council member Dennis Kwok.
Hong Kong Watch co-founder and trustee Aileen Calverley said in her remarks that Hong Kong Watch must continue to defend the fundamental human rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers from threats and intimidation on Canadian soil. She urged the Canadian Government to expand the lifeboat scheme Stream B and establish a safe pathway for more young Hong Kongers to arrive in Canada and obtain permanent residency.
Former Legislative Council member Dennis Kwok expressed his joy to see the launch of Hong Kong Watch Canada and the unity of Hong Kongers in Canada in fighting for the future of Hong Kong. He encouraged Hong Kongers to be steadfast in their efforts and not to forget the sacrifices of the young protesters of Hong Kong.
The launch was hosted by four Canadian patrons of Hong Kong Watch and parliamentarians, including Senator Leo Housakos, Melissa Lantsman MP, Garnett Genuis MP, and James Bezan MP. They expressed their support for the pro-democracy movement and welcomed newcomers from Hong Kong to Canada. They also urged the Government to combat interference in Canada from Beijing and to protect Canadian sovereignty and democratic values.
Additionally, Hong Kong Watch patrons and former Minister the Honourable Irwin Cotler, former Senator Jim Munson, and parliamentarians Jenny Kwan MP and Jean Yip MP, also delivered remarks expressing their support for Hong Konger Canadians and congratulations for the official launch of Hong Kong Watch Canada.
The launch of Hong Kong Watch Canada marked an important milestone for the work of Hong Kong Watch, which would not be possible without the continuous support we receive. We endeavour to continue speaking out for Hong Kong people and defending Hong Kong's human rights and freedoms.
We thank Joe Tay from HongKongerStation for broadcasting the launch ceremony, and all Hong Kongers who travelled from Toronto, Vancouver, and other US cities to attend the launch at Ottawa Parliament Hill. Thanks must also be given to former Hong Kong Legislative Council member Dennis Kwok and 20 parliamentarians for their attendance and support.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the support of four Hong Kong Watch Patrons: Senator Leo Housakos, Melissa Lantsman MP, Garnett Genuis MP and James Bezan MP for their assistance in securing the Parliament venue and officiating the launch ceremony. They have spared no effort in supporting Hong Kongers in Canada, by speaking on issues such as the expansion of Stream B permanent residence pathway, foreign agent registration system, and MPF withdrawal.
The mission of Hong Kong Watch Canada is to monitor Hong Kong’s democracy, freedom, and human rights situation, and to provide support for Hong Kongers in Canada. The launch of Hong Kong Watch Canada exhibited the support and awareness of Hong Kong by the Canadian legislature and public, as well as created an important platform for Hong Kong Canadians to unite in their efforts to fight for a better future for Hong Kong. Hong Kong Watch Canada will continue to support and amplify the voices of those who are speaking out for Hong Kong democracy and human rights on the international stage.
We thank the following Parliamentarians in attendance:
Senator Housakos
Hon. Irwin Cotler
Former Senator James Munson
Melissa Lantsman MP
Garnett Genuis MP
James Bezan MP
Cathay Wagantall MP
Jean Yip MP
Michael Chong MP
Brad Redekopp MP
John McKay MP
Kyle Seeback MP
Jenny Kwan MP
Tom Kmiec MP
Senator Plett
Senator Carignan
Senator MacDonald
Senator Mockler
Senator Omidvar
