On April 7, 1989, Taiwanese democracy activist Cheng Nan-jung, also known as Nylon Cheng, took his own life in protest of the then-ruling authoritarian Kuomintang government. <br /><br />At the time, Cheng was wanted for publishing texts supporting Taiwan’s independence, a direct challenge to the one-party rule. Despite the end of martial law in 1987, the government continued to pursue its mission to “reclaim” China and criminalize dissent. <br /><br />To avoid arrest and protect his work, Cheng locked himself in his office for 71 days. When police finally broke down the door, he chose to take his own life rather than be captured. <br /><br />Today, the street where Cheng’s office once stood is known as Freedom Alley, and the office itself is preserved as a museum. In his honor, Taiwan has chosen April 7 as Freedom of Speech Day to ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten. <br /><br />Warning: This video contains disturbing images. Viewer discretion is advised. <br /><br />Learn more about the story on our YouTube channel.
