Activists’ Partners Pen Love Letters on Valentine’s Day Amid Detention

As Valentine’s Day approaches, partners of detained human rights activists are unable to see their loved ones. This year, they have resorted to exchanging heartfelt love letters as a symbolic gesture of enduring love.

Gao Zhisheng, a human rights lawyer who has been missing since 2017, is dearly missed by his wife, Geng He. Despite seven years of separation, their love remains unwavering.

Meanwhile, lawyer Chow Hang-tung is detained in Hong Kong under the National Security Law for her role in organizing the Tiananmen crackdown vigil. Her partner, Ye Du, resides under police surveillance in Guangzhou, China.

Chow and Ye have never celebrated Valentine’s Day together due to circumstances. Each moment they share is cherished, knowing that true love transcends physical presence.

In another poignant reflection of love amid adversity, human rights lawyer Ding Jiaxi’s wife, Shengchun, has been writing letters to him in detention. Ding was arrested in 2019 and subjected to severe treatment.

Shengchun, reflecting on the challenges they face, writes to Ding about their shared faith, the new friendships she’s formed, and the unwavering love that binds them despite the circumstances.

This Valentine’s Day, these courageous partners express their love through letters, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the enduring power of love in the face of injustice.