To many modern Americans, the fight for political freedom is one long forgotten. Liberty is taken for granted, so the idea that there are still power struggles over free speech and free expression is almost as foreign as the countries they occur in. There is no better example of this than Hong Kong, "revolution of our times".
The Hong Kong protests began on March 31st, 2019, and have been slowly escalating since then. Ever since Great Britain turned control of Hong Kong over to China in the 90's, China has been slowly exerting more and more control over Hong Kong's government, suffocating their independence and autonomy. It's immediately evident that China wishes to do away with the "One China, Two Systems" policy, instead preferring to quietly become more and more dominant over Hong Kong. If they succeed, Hong Kong's previously enjoyed rights will be revoked, and Hong Kong will blend back into the totalitarian fabric of China.
There are 5 main demands that the protestors hope to accomplish. The first is full withdrawal of the extradition bill, which would allow prisoners to be sent to China for a (unfair) trial if passed. The second and third demands are somewhat related: a full investigation into police brutality and revoke the term "rioters" that was previously applied to protestors. The fourth demand is amnesty for protestors, and the final demand is universal suffrage in order to participate in Hong Kong's government.
Now for the heartbreaking part: the Hong Kong police are not making it easy for the protestors to accomplish their goals. They've beaten men, women, and children, shot tear gas at point blank range, prevented paramedics from treated injured civilians, and even allegedly killed several of the protestors. The injuries are growing by the day, with seemingly no end in sight. The police force, who is ordinarily sworn to protect its citizens, has instead turned against them. Brutal attacks give the protestors no choice but to fight back.
So how can you help? Spread the word. Contact your local lawmakers to tell them to take action. Join a protest in your city or start one. Below are links that provide more information.
Do not let Hong Kong die.
