Honourable senators, today marks a dark day in Hong Kong’s history and a sobering reminder of the continual erosion of democracy and freedom under Beijing’s authoritarian grip. The sentencing of 45 of the 47 Hong Kong democrats — people who dared to dream of a better, freer Hong Kong — is not merely an injustice; it is a calculated act of suppression against all who value the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

These brave men and women are from all walks of life — young, old, activists, trade unionists and former legislators — and their only crime was organizing and participating in peaceful unofficial primary elections for the legislative council in 2020. For this, after having already been held for three years, they have now been handed sentences ranging from an additional 3 to 10 years of imprisonment under a draconian national security law imposed by Beijing.

Beijing wants to keep this in the dark and turn the world’s eyes away. The so-called trial lacked a jury and was offered only five public seats in the courtroom. Instead of giving them what they want, we must keep a spotlight on what is happening in Hong Kong.

Let me be clear: The Hong Kong 47 represents the voices of millions who believe in the promise of “one country, two systems” — that Hong Kongers would be able to participate, at least to some degree, in the democratic process. Their persecution sends a chilling message to anyone in Hong Kong and those who have left that territory that anyone who dares challenge Beijing’s rule will not be tolerated.

Canada cannot turn a blind eye. The repression against those who speak out against Beijing is not limited to the territory that they control, but extends across borders. Even in Canada, Hong Kongers who have immigrated here face threats of transnational repression, from surveillance to harassment to intimidation. This is not just a distant issue. It is happening right here on Canadian soil, undermining the safety and freedoms of those who sought refuge in our great democracy.

Canada must take a firm stance. We have stood alongside the people of Hong Kong from day one, from the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941 to the human rights crackdown of this decade, and we must continue to do so unequivocally. As a nation committed to human rights and the rule of law, Canada has a responsibility to act by supporting Hong Kongers both here and abroad. We send a clear message: Repression and tyranny have no place in our world, and to those who want to stand for democracy, we will stand with them. Thank you, colleagues.