Social Work Practicing Social Justice for the Collective Trauma of the Hong Kong Diaspora Community in Canada
Keywords:
Social Work, Social Justice, Collective Trauma, Hong Kong DiasporaAbstract
This paper explores how social work can address the collective trauma experienced by members of the Hong Kong diaspora in Canada following their migration in the aftermath of the 2019 protests and the enactment of the National Security Law. For many, migration is not only a search for safety but also a means of resisting political oppression and preserving cultural identity. Drawing on trauma-informed and culturally responsive social work frameworks, the paper argues for an integrated approach that combines advocacy for social justice with community empowerment.
Through a case study of Echo Theatre in Calgary, a cultural organisation, the paper illustrates how community-led initiatives can foster healing, solidarity, and resilience. Echo Theatre’s programming, including documentary screenings, cultural events, and dialogue spaces, exemplifies trauma-informed practices that validate the lived experiences of Hongkongers while reinforcing their collective identity.
The discussion is framed by social justice concepts such as human hierarchies, institutionalisation, and non-performativity, highlighting the systemic barriers faced by the diaspora, including precarious immigration status, employment inequities, and mistrust of institutions.
The paper concludes by offering practice-based recommendations for mental health support, culturally sensitive outreach, community engagement, and policy advocacy. Emphasising the value of participatory approaches and solidarity-building, it underscores the vital role of social work in supporting the long-term healing and integration of trauma-affected migrant communities. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on diasporic trauma and highlights the transformative potential of social work in fostering justice, dignity, and belonging.
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