On Saturday, September 16, HRIC Executive Director Zhou Fengsuo hosted the overseas premiere of Hong Kong director Ma Chi-hang's documentary "Ballad on the Shore.” “Ballad on the Shore” is an intimate portrait of the Hong Kong boat people, specifically their “fisherman songs”—a form of oral history and traditional art that is slowly disappearing with the eldest generation. Around 45 artists, students, and activists from the New York area attended.

The audience reception to the film was overwhelmingly positive. During the Q&A, one audience member emphasized how meaningful the film is to young Hong Kong people, many of whom have never heard of fisherman culture. Director Ma shared that he has screened the film more than 100 times in Hong Kong to help preserve this important cultural memory. 

The evening was also an opportunity for guests to experience Hong Kong cuisine. Before the screening, Director Ma prepared dishes that he learned from the fishermen to share with everyone. Afterwards, guests continued to mingle until midnight.