The Hong Kong government has abruptly canceled an art exhibition that touches upon the first anniversary of the ongoing pro-democracy protests as the passing of new national security law looms over the city.

Featuring 10 artists, the exhibition, titled “Story of the First Year” in Chinese, was scheduled to take place on June 28 at the government-owned Yau Tong Community Hall in Kwun Tong district. A live music performance and seminars were also planned for the exhibition’s opening.

Event organizer Ricky Kung, a local district councillor, said the Home Affairs Department withdrew its venue approval two days before the exhibition’s opening without providing proper explanation.

Kung said he applied for the venue in January and approval was granted in March. He said although the exhibition touches upon social events and the seminar had planned to feature speakers across the political spectrum, the event was not intended to advocate a certain political agenda. He had hoped the event could encourage participants to come up with their own conclusions through open discussions.

He attempted to access the venue on Sunday morning but found the hall locked and guarded by uniformed police officers, who filmed those who were at the venue.

Kung condemned the Home Affairs Department for working against the public while spreading white terror by shutting down the exhibition. He also criticized the government for suppressing Hong Kong people’s civil rights and freedom of expression.

He said he would demand an explanation from the Home Affairs Department at the District Council meeting on July 7.

Click here for Chinese version.

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