ALBAWABA - Hundreds gathered in a quiet corner of Hong Kong to bid farewell to an independent bookstore over the weekend. Mount Zero, announced its closure at the end of March due to ongoing government inspections and complaints, which accused the store of illegal occupation of government land. These complaints, along with the threat of fines and jail time, forced the bookstore to close its doors.
Since the implementation of a national security law in 2020, concerns about censorship have loomed over Hong Kong's cultural sector. The remaining bookstores in the city feel the pressure of operating in an increasingly restrictive environment.
(Photo by Peter PARKS / AFP)
Political scientist Ivan Choy expressed concern at the gathering, stating that despite assurances from authorities, the impact of such restrictions would continue to affect people's lives. The new security law made people worry that it will stop democracy and restrict cultural freedoms even more.
Mount Zero, known for its liberal-minded approach, has been a symbol of resistance against political changes in Hong Kong. Its closure is a loss for the community, with supporters lamenting the potential restrictions on the types of books available in the city.
(Photo by Justin CHAN / AFP)
The store served as something of a cultural hub, hosting events and providing a space for like-minded individuals to gather. Its closure highlights the challenges faced by independent bookstores, particularly amidst increased government inspections and regulations.
Even though Mount Zero is closing, its supporters say it's still important to keep places where people can share ideas and build a community. As readers gathered for the last time, they thought about how the bookstore had made a lasting impact on their neighborhood.
