The Support I Received, and the Work Ahead

By Hong Hoang

This photograph was taken on September 21, 2024, when I was finally reunited with my family after 478 days in prison.

Behind that moment were people around the world who refused to forget me. Friends, colleagues, organizations, and thousands of people I had never met spoke up for my freedom. Their support helped bring me home and helped my family carry on while I was away.

I want other defenders to have that same chance: to come home, hold their loved ones, and decide what comes next.

That hope is part of why we created ECHO Alliance. We know how much it matters to have people you can turn to, especially when your work puts you under pressure.

If you believe that no one should lose their freedom for protecting the Earth or standing up for their community, I invite you to help us build that support for others.