Over the past few months, the world has seen peaceful protests in Hong Kong turn into wars in the streets. As of today (Nov 27, 2019), citizens of Hong Kong have been in protest for 259 days, marching for their freedom and for democracy as the Chinese Communist Party slowly tries to regain control of the former British colony that gave the people of Hong Kong their democratic rights.

Here in Canada, we are fortunate enough to not have to march for 259 days in order to protect our right to vote, freedom of speech, and any other freedoms we enjoy every day.

However, recently the University of Guelph's iconic canon has been ground zero for suppression of the University of Guelph Hong Kong community by the University of Guelph Chinese Student and Scholars Association. The following link shows the Canon painted in support of Hong Kong.

Canon Painted for Hong Kong - Reddit

The following link is a video showing the canon now painted red by Chinese students in support of the CCP, as well as the confrontation between Chinese students and other Guelph students.

Canon Painted Red - Streamable

The canon immediately being painted red by Chinese students in support of the CCP is an undeniable act of suppression taken against the Hong Kong students here at the University of Guelph. Personally, I think it is beyond ridiculous how these Chinese students come to a democratic country for a decent education, and yet they condone this type of behavior, this is nothing but insulting considering the liberties this country is giving them during their time here as students. There have also been reports of an erected makeshift Lennon Wall being torn down by Chinese students, another wall has since been put up.

Lennon Wall - Reddit

However, what they do not see is they are exercising their freedom of speech and doing what it means to live in a democratic country. Now, I call on the students of the University of Guelph and the President of the University of Guelph, Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino, to exercise that same right.

By signing this petition, we ask that the University of Guelph puts out an official statement standing with Hong Kong and the Hong Kong students attending the University of Guelph, and as Gryphons, we do not condone the suppression of human rights here at home or abroad.

"Together we can make a better world for today and for our shared tomorrow." - found on UofG's official web page for President Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino.

You can also email the president of the University of Guelph: president@uoguelph.ca

Other useful links to aid in your decision:

An account of what happened at the Canon: Link to Reddit

A statement put out by UGCSSA: Link to Reddit