The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation has announced that Catholic human rights activist and political prisoner Jimmy Lai will be an honorary recipient of a 2025 Bradley Prize. The foundation cited Lai as being an “inspiration to all who value freedom.”
Details of the Honor
Lai, the founder of the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, chose to remain in Hong Kong despite risks, advocating against the Chinese Communist Party. The Bradley Foundation described him as a “courageous advocate for democracy and freedom of the press” whose criticisms of Beijing’s control made him a target. Currently imprisoned, Lai has spent over four years in solitary confinement and faces potential life imprisonment under Hong Kong’s national security law imposed in 2020.
Rick Graber, president of the Bradley Foundation, stated: “Jimmy’s extraordinary courage and deeply held beliefs in journalistic integrity, human dignity, and democracy are an inspiration to all who value freedom.” He added that Lai “stayed and continued to advocate for truth and transparency” instead of fleeing increased pressure. “His sacrifice serves as a beacon of hope for those fighting against tyranny,” Graber said.
The foundation gives the prize to individuals whose work aligns with its mission to protect principles of American exceptionalism and Western tradition.
Award Acceptance and Response
Jimmy Lai’s son, Sebastien Lai, will accept the honorary prize on his father’s behalf. The ceremony is scheduled for May 29 at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C.
In a statement, Sebastien Lai expressed the family’s deep gratitude, saying, “He is to us most importantly a husband, father, and grandfather, but he has earned his place as a hero in the hearts of many around the world.” He described the prize as a “testament to his commitment to truth and freedom, made evident in his tremendous self-sacrifice.” Sebastien added, “From a tiny prison cell in Hong Kong, he continues to stand strong against the world’s largest and most powerful totalitarian regime. Thank you for reminding the world that his cause is not lost — good people must now fight for his freedom as he fought for theirs.”
