Detained Canadian in China Michael Spavor’s friends raise cash to help him after his release
- More than half the crowdfunding goal raised in three days as fellow citizens on the mainland face uncertain future
- Third Canadian held is a teacher whose circumstances differ from previous cases
Friends of Michael Spavor – the second Canadian citizen arrested in China – have started an online fundraising campaign to support him on his eventual release, raising more than half their goal of CA$14,000 (US$10,400) since Monday.
Spavor was detained last week for activities that allegedly endangered China’s national security. If deported, he may forfeit his possessions in China, including access to his non-profit organisation, Paektu Cultural Exchange, leaving him unable to continue his work.
According to the campaign, hosted by crowdfunding platform GoFundMe, money raised will help with “any legal, medical or transport bills once he is out”.
The money will be given to Spavor’s brother and may also be used to pay any potential fines in China, as well as to provide start-up capital in support of his new life outside the country.
China confirms second Canadian Michael Spavor under investigation for allegedly endangering national security
Spavor, a businessman based in Dandong, a large Chinese city near the border with North Korea, has spent years promoting tourism and investment in the hermit kingdom.
