The death of student protester, Lin, has brought about many regrets. The 20-year-old’s mother says she hopes the public will continue to discuss the issue without confusing the primary focus.

Lin’s mother says in a Facebook post, “It’s not until now do I realize Lin was using his own way to shine. He stood by what he thought was right and tried to raise awareness of the issues he was concerned about. His father and I are surprised to see Lin has so many friends that are willing to fulfill his ideal. It is beyond anyone’s imagination. Lin used his life to keep the conversation going.”

His mother also emphasizes Lin wasn’t a child that could be influenced by political parties. He wasn’t irrational, but had a mind of his own and followers that supported him.

At the end of the post Lin’s mother says, “It is the society and adults that are ailing. It is parents like me who have been brainwashed that naively ignore these conversations. We should start reflecting from the very beginning.”

She calls on the public to listen to the children’s voices.

“Please stop saying these kids are being manipulated by political parties. Lin used his allowance to print out anti curriculum guideline flyers. He would often have only one meal a day and I thought he was wasting money elsewhere. These children are desperate because they don’t have the support of any party,” Lin’s mother says.

Translated by Olivia Yang

Sources:
Apple Daily
CNA