Words like "freedom" and "democracy" get thrown around so much that it's easy to forgot how much they really mean. Anyone following the ongoing protests inside Hong Kong is seeing firsthand what real bravery looks like in the face of fear. Yes, there is some nuance in the overall debate about China'a role in governing Hong Kong. But there can be no debating the freedom, dignity and human rights every person on this planet is entitled to.
If you believe in freedom of expression, and if you care about the ongoing struggles in Hong Kong, then it's important to make your voice heard. After all, even in the United States there has been an embarrassing willingness on the part of some organizations like the National Basketball Association to stifle freedom of speech when it comes to fans sharing their support for those brave souls making their voices heard thousands of miles away from the safety of a NBA arena.
Here are 6 of our favorite Hong Kong protest shirts. None of them are offensive or inappropriate but every single one makes a simple statement about supporting the real people and voices at stake in Hong Kong. We've also thrown in a link to a compelling documentary on the crisis that you can watch for free. Please chime in the comments with suggestions on other ways people can get involved. Make your voice heard! That's what democracy is all about.
A subtle and tasteful shirt representing the Hong Kong official flower
Hong Kong Flag | Bauhinia Orchid Flower HK China Poster Art Kowloon Asia T-Shirt, $12.95; at Amazon
Liberate Hong Kong | Revolution of our Times T-Shirt
Liberate Hong Kong Revolution of our Times Support HK Shirt T-Shirt, $19.99; on Amazon
Umbrella Revolution T-Shirt
Free Hong Kong - Umbrella Revolution Protest T-Shirt, $19.99; available in 8 different colors on Amazon
Stand With Hong Kong
Stand With Hong Kong Flag Shirts Pro Democracy Shirt Gifts T-Shirt, $18.99; on Amazon
Free Hong Kong | Democracy Now
Free Hong Kong Democracy Now HK independence Flag T-Shirt, $19.99; on Amazon
Free Hong Kong | Resist Fist
Free Hong Kong - Resist Fist With Hong Kong Flag T-Shirt, $15.99; on Amazon
Rebellion: On the Frontlines of Hong Kong's Uprising
And finally, it's not just about wearing stylish and persuasive clothing that conveys our belief in freedom. We must be able to articulate our understanding behind the principles and news events shaping events on the ground in Hong Kong. That's why we highly recommend this short documentary (51 minutes) from Sophie McNeill. It's free to view if you are an Amazon Prime member.
Rebellion: On the Frontlines of Hong Kong's Uprising, $3.99 or free with Amazon Prime membership; on Amazon
GOOD Media Group may receive a percentage of revenue from items purchased that are mentioned in this article
Wiman hiding her face behind a bunch of cashCanva
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Parents of young children get more time with them if they work from home.Photo credit: Canva
Juicy subject matter
Giphy from The Blacklist.
We could start a rumor.
Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.