Meet the activists

  • Mimi Lee

    Mimi Lee

    Mimi Lee provides a detailed look at the effects of CCP policies on Hong Kong, including restrictions on free expression, and discusses her activism efforts in Canada. Highlighting events like the NBA protest and the “Lunch With You” rally, she explores how local and global resistance movements arise from Hong Kong’s political changes.

  • Sheng Xue

    Sheng Xue

    Sheng Xue, a Beijing native now based in Canada, has become a prominent figure in journalism, human rights advocacy, and the pro-democracy movement. Her influential works and leadership in various organizations demonstrate a lifelong commitment to democracy, freedom of expression, and equality.

  • Tsering Norzom Thonsur

    Tsering Norzom Thonsur

    Tsering Norzom Thonsur's lifelong commitment to Tibetan rights and social work reflects her profound connection to her heritage and her desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of refugees and new immigrants. Through protests, activism, and her professional role, she strives to shed light on the Tibetan plight and provide valuable support to those in need.

  • Mehmet Tohti

    Mehmet Tohti

    Mehmet Tohti, an influential Uyghur Canadian activist, has tirelessly worked to promote awareness and intervention regarding the treatment of Uyghurs in China. Through his activism, teaching, and leadership roles, he has successfully lobbied for significant political actions in Canada, including the recognition of genocide and the resettlement of 10,000 Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims.

Commentary & Resources

IN THE NEWS

The Guardian: Canadian police charge three over killing of Sikh activist

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The Hill Times: Redefining the frontlines: the battle for democracy in an era of tran…

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The Guardian: Canadian police charge three over killing of Sikh activist 〰️ The Hill Times: Redefining the frontlines: the battle for democracy in an era of tran… 〰️

Meet the team

Professor Nadia Abu-Zahra
Co-Director

Professor John Packer
Co-Director

Professor John Packer is an Associate Professor of Law and Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre (HRREC) at the University of Ottawa. He was appointed the Inaugural Neuberger-Jesin Professor of International Conflict Resolution in April 2018.

See Prof Packer’s full profile page here.

Professor Abu-Zahra is an Associate Professor in the School of International Development and Global Studies at the University of Ottawa, and a member of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre. Prof Abu-Zahra is the Joint Chair in Women's Studies at Carlton University and University of Ottawa.

See Prof Abu-Zahra’s full profile page here.

Dr. Philip Leech-Ngo
Coordinator

Philip Leech-Ngo is a skilled researcher, analyst and communicator with more than ten years of experience as a consultant and academic with a focus on international affairs.

See Dr. Philip Leech-Ngo’s full profile page here.

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