Hong Kong protest anthem disappears from iTunes, social media, and streaming music services after China complained
This isn’t a good look.
A variety of versions of the pro-democracy anthem known as “Glory to Hong Kong”–a fixture during the 2019 street protests–has disappeared from iTunes, Spotify, Instagram Reels, Facebook, and a few other places where it had been available. The Hong Kong government (read: The Chinese Communist Party of the People’s Republic of China) sought a court injunction to ban the song.
Why the panic? First, the PRC considers any protests subversive and seditious. Second, it was played (mistakenly, apparently) at several international events, greatly embarrassing the PRC. It’s been banned in schools since 2020. (Further details here.)
Here are the lyrics (courtesy Sean):
We pledge: No more tears on our land,
In wrath, doubts dispell’d we make our stand.
Arise! Ye who would not be slaves again:
For Hong Kong, may Freedom reign!
Though deep is the dread that lies ahead,
Yet still, with our faith, on we tread.
Let blood rage afield! Our voice grows evermore: For Hong Kong, may Glory reign!
Stars may fade, as darkness fills the air, Through the mist a solitary trumpet flares: Now, to arms!
For Freedom we fight, with all might we strike! With valour, wisdom both, we stride!’
Break now the dawn, liberate our Hong Kong, In common breath: Revolution of our times!
May people reign, proud and free, now and evermore,
Glory be to thee, Hong Kong!
And now the video:
