• Jimmy Sham, a key pro-democracy and LGBTQ+ activist in Hong Kong, has been released from prison after over four years.
• Sham was imprisoned following his involvement in an unofficial primary election, part of the city's largest national security case.
• Despite his release, Sham expressed caution about his freedom and indicated he was carefully self-censoring his statements.
• While jailed, Sham achieved a significant legal victory for same-sex partnership rights in Hong Kong.
• He has no immediate plans to leave Hong Kong and aims to reconnect with his family and community.

Jimmy Sham, a leading voice in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy and LGBTQ+ movements, was released from prison on May 30 after serving over four years in connection with the city’s most significant national security case. Sham was among 47 activists arrested for their involvement in an unofficial primary election held in 2020, which was deemed a subversion of governmental authority under Beijing-imposed laws. His activism gained prominence during the 2019 anti-government protests, when he led peaceful demonstrations that drew millions, according to Los Angeles Times, Le Monde, and Times of India.

Following his release, Sham expressed a mix of emotions, stating, "I feel happy. No matter whether there's a change in (my) freedom, I am definitely freer compared to yesterday." However, he also acknowledged the ongoing suffering of many others imprisoned under similar circumstances, indicating a deep sense of empathy despite his own relief. Sham described his current approach as one of caution, admitting to self-censorship regarding sensitive topics due to uncertainty about his safety and future, according to Los Angeles Times and Le Monde.

While incarcerated, Sham actively fought for recognition of his overseas same-sex marriage, leading to a landmark court ruling that mandated the Hong Kong government to establish a recognition framework for same-sex partnerships. Although the ruling did not legalize same-sex marriage outright, it was seen as a significant gain for the LGBTQ+ community in Hong Kong. Sham described this experience as empowering amid the challenges of incarceration, reflecting on the broader implications for equality and rights, according to Times of India and Los Angeles Times.

Sham was released alongside three other activists, Kinda Li, Roy Tam, and Henry Wong, marking the second batch of released prisoners, as part of the ongoing struggle for democratic freedoms in Hong Kong. The emotional toll of separations endured during imprisonment remains a significant burden for both activists and their families. Despite the oppressive atmosphere following the enforcement of the national security law, Sham reaffirmed his commitment to remain in Hong Kong, stating he has "no plans" to leave the city at this time, according to Times of India, Le Monde, and Los Angeles Times.