Rev. Paris Harvey, Who Revealed 5·18 Atrocities to the World and Held US Government Accountable, Dies at 91

The passing of Reverend Paris H. Harvey marks the end of an era for human rights advocacy, particularly concerning South Korea. As reported by the Hankyoreh, Reverend Harvey was a steadfast ally in the nation's struggle for democracy, dedicating his life to shedding light on the injustices faced by its people during periods of authoritarian rule. His tireless efforts, primarily through the North America Coalition for Human Rights in Korea (NACHRK), were crucial in bringing the realities of human rights violations to the international stage, challenging the narratives often presented by oppressive regimes.

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Father was a quiet pillar of our lives and a deep and meaningful presence.

Reverend Harvey's commitment was not merely symbolic; he actively engaged with international bodies and governments, including the United States. His work in informing the US government about the brutal suppression of the Gwangju Uprising in 1980, and his subsequent criticism of the Carter and Reagan administrations for their perceived inaction or complicity, was particularly significant. The NACHRK's report on the Gwangju massacre and its demand for accountability from the US government represented one of the earliest international efforts to assign responsibility for the events.

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His unwavering love, gentleness, and kindness were our strong support, and we loved him until the end.

His activism extended to advocating for political prisoners and opposing military dictatorships, leading to him being declared persona non grata by the South Korean government at various times. Despite facing entry bans, his resolve never wavered. The Hankyoreh recognizes that Reverend Harvey's contributions were instrumental in shaping a more informed and responsive international perspective on South Korea's democratization process. His efforts helped foster a climate where the US government began to see supporting democratic reforms as a means to counter anti-American sentiment in Korea.

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When the truth was in danger of being concealed and distorted due to the bloody suppression by the martial law army during the May 18th Gwangju Uprising, it was thanks to his efforts that Gwangju could stand not as an isolated island, but as a sacred place of democracy that defends universal human values.

In 2020, the South Korean government posthumously awarded Reverend Harvey a presidential commendation, acknowledging his profound contribution to the nation's democratic development and human rights. The 5·18 Memorial Foundation rightly stated that his efforts ensured the Gwangju Uprising would be remembered not as an isolated tragedy, but as a beacon of universal values. The Hankyoreh joins in mourning his loss and celebrating a life devoted to justice and human dignity.

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Reverend Harvey's humanity and indomitable will for justice will be forever remembered in the hearts of all of us who inherit the spirit of May 18th.