Hong Kong bar Club 71, known as a gathering place for pro-democracy activists and intellectuals, is closing. Owner Grace Ma blames government-mandated bar closures and coronavirus restrictions for its financial strain.
In this Oct. 9, 2020 photo, former lawmaker and pro-democracy activist Leung Kwok-hung, known as "Long Hair," right, waits for his drink at Club 71 in Hong Kong. The bar known as a gathering place for pro-democracy activists and intellectuals is closing. For years, the storied bar has served as a watering hole for the city’s pro-democracy activists and intellectuals, who could freely engage in discussions over a round of beer or two.
For years, the storied bar has served as a watering hole for the city’s pro-democracy activists and intellectuals, who could freely engage in discussions over a round of beer or two.Then the coronavirus pandemic hit and, in a blow to the city’s Western-style freedoms, the central government in Beijing in June imposed sweeping national security legislation targeting political expression in response to massive anti-government protests last year.
Social distancing restrictions have also halved the capacity of the city’s bars and restaurants, making it more difficult for them to turn a profit. “This is a place in Hong Kong where people can drop by and exchange ideas, as long as everyone respects each other, they can say whatever they want,” said Ma.
Some of Club 71’s customers also include former lawmaker and pro-democracy activist Leung Kwok-hung, known as “Long Hair” in Hong Kong. Leung had been a regular in Club 71’s predecessor, Club 64.
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