On Wednesday, Human Rights in China (HRIC) and Art for Human Rights celebrated the unveiling of the world's first statue of Liu Xiaobo on a university campus at the University of Galway, Ireland. The bust, which was commissioned by HRIC and Art for Human Rights from Czech sculptor Marie Šeborová, will be permanently on display at the Irish Centre for Human Rights. This event marked a significant victory for the Chinese democracy movement and a powerful statement against authoritarianism. Speakers included university president Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights Siobhán Mullally, HRIC Executive Director Fengsuo Zhou, Bill Shipsey of Art for Human Rights, Barbora Bukovska of Article 19, and Professor Roja Fazaeli of the Irish Centre for Human Rights and Frontline Defenders. In addition to the unveiling ceremony, there was a one-and-a-half-hour seminar attended by more than 70 students and teachers, on human rights issues in China, Liu Xiaobo's legacy, the fate of the 1989 Movement, and the CCP’s transnational influence.
Liu Xiaobo was a brave and devoted advocate for the Chinese people. In 1989, he chose to give up a visiting scholar position at Columbia University to return to China, where he supported student protestors on Tiananmen Square. After serving 21 months for participating in the protests, he criticized the government for its policies towards Tibet and Taiwan and was sent to re-education through labor for another three years. In 2008, Liu co-authored Charter ‘08, a manifesto calling for respect towards human rights and freedoms in China, and in retaliation was jailed for “inciting subversion of state power.” In 2010, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in absentia “for his long and non-violent struggle for fundamental human rights in China.” However, Liu never received his prize—in 2017, still in prison, he passed away at the age of 61. HRIC’s Fengsuo Zhou said: "From the Tiananmen protests to Charter 08, to his martyrdom in 2017, Liu Xiaobo symbolizes the peaceful struggle for freedom and democracy in China. We commemorate him by erecting his statue. His legacy will continue to inspire us all."
The journey to this moment has been challenging. Many universities worldwide, under pressure from the Chinese government, have been hesitant to host a memorial Liu Xiaobo on their campuses. The University of Galway's courage in the face of potential diplomatic and economic repercussions is commendable. Bill Shipsey, founder of Art for Human Rights, emphasized the statue's importance: "The Chinese Communist Party has tried to erase Liu Xiaobo's memory since his death in a military hospital in 2017. But his words will outlast those of any authoritarian leader and will be remembered and cherished by all who love freedom and respect human rights."
HRIC extends our heartfelt gratitude to Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President of the University of Galway, and Professor Siobhán Mullally, Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, for their unwavering support and courage in hosting Liu Xiaobo's statue. Their commitment to academic freedom and human rights, especially in the face of potential pressures, exemplifies the highest ideals of educational institutions. By providing a home for this important memorial, they have not only honored Liu Xiaobo's legacy but also reinforced the university's role as a bastion of free thought and human dignity. Their leadership sets a powerful example for academic institutions worldwide. We also extend our sincere appreciation to our partners who have made this project possible: Art for Human Rights, Article 19, Index on Censorship, Front Line Defenders, International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), and Humanitarian China. Together, we continue to challenge censorship, preserve historical truth, and champion the cause of freedom and democracy in China. This statue is not just a symbol of past struggles, but a beacon guiding us toward a more just future.
University of Galway I salute you for having a statue of this hero Liu! The world needs more of this type of courage.