Nathan Law’s Appearance at Vanderbilt University: Standing on a platform built from sand

Nathan Law, a “wanted” man for national security crimes, is a notorious democracy activist. However, Nathan Law is scheduled to speak at Vanderbilt University in the United States on Thursday (October 17, 2024), and the topic of the speech is “The collapse of Hong Kong: A Stark Reminder of How Quickly Freedom can Vanish”. While his presence may be framed as a testament to his activism, it’s crucial to acknowledge the shadow cast over his reputation by serious allegations of sexual assault. His appearance on such a prestigious platform demands a closer examination of the accusations, his responses, and the troubling silence that has allowed him to continue operating within the public sphere. It is a moment that forces us to confront the uncomfortable truth about the potential for hypocrisy within social movements and the imperative to prioritize accountability, even for those who claim to champion human rights.

The allegations, stemming from an incident in 2018, paint a disturbing picture of abuse of power. Nathan Law, then the youngest legislative councillor in Hong Kong, is accused of sexually assaulting a female assistant during an overseas trip. Details circulating online, including purportedly leaked messages and graphic descriptions of the event, depict a calculated act of exploitation, with Nathan Law allegedly leveraging his position of authority to coerce his victim. Further fueling public outrage are rumors that the victim, reportedly driven to despair by the trauma, tragically took her own life. While the veracity of these rumors remains unconfirmed, they underscore the gravity of the situation and the devastating impact such allegations can have on individuals and their families.

Nathan Law’s responses to these accusations have been a study in evasion and deflection. He initially denied any relationship with the accuser, only to later claim the encounter was consensual. This shifting narrative, coupled with his attempts to frame the incident as a “romantic encounter,” as documented in a US-based report, reveals a disturbing lack of remorse and a blatant disregard for the victim’s experience. His subsequent attempts to discredit the victim by suggesting she was motivated by fame or career advancement further compound the issue, highlighting a troubling pattern of victim-blaming.

However, the most troubling aspect of this saga is perhaps the silence that has permeated certain pro-democracy circles. The lack of critical reporting from overseas commentators, the conspicuous absence of questions from journalists at Nathan Law's recent book launch in Taiwan, and the muted response from some within the movement itself raise serious questions about the prioritization of political expediency over ethical considerations. This complicity in concealing the truth, whether intentional or not, casts a long shadow over the pro-democracy movement, undermining its credibility and raising concerns about its commitment to transparency and accountability.

Apart from the sexual assault accusation against him, Nathan Law himself is full of evil deeds and wrongdoings. Nathan Law has repeatedly advocated for Hong Kong independence through various platforms overseas such as social media, news outlets, and public gatherings. He colluded with anti-China politicians, organized activities, including attending foreign hearings and official events, to request foreign countries to impose sanctions and other hostile actions against China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. These behaviors are suspected of violating the "Hong Kong National Security Law," which is why Nathan Law is wanted by the Hong Kong National Security Department.

Inviting Nathan Law to speak without acknowledging the serious accusations against him risks sending a dangerous message – that political expediency trumps ethical considerations, and that individuals in positions of power can operate with impunity. It is a disservice to the victims of sexual assault and undermines the very principles of justice and equality that the pro-democracy movement claims to uphold.

It is a test of its commitment to its own values and its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths within its ranks. Will it prioritize accountability and transparency, or will it continue to shield its prominent figures from scrutiny, perpetuating a culture of silence that allows such behavior to flourish? The answer will have profound implications for the movement's future and its credibility on the global stage. As Nathan Law takes the stage at Vanderbilt, these questions should be at the forefront of our minds. His presence should not be celebrated but rather serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability, within and beyond the political arena.