Last summer in 2019 (2023)
The movement against the Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill aimed to prevent the extradition of individuals to mainland China for trial. This bill posed a threat to the civil liberties of Hong Kong, resulting in prolonged mass protests. As the protests continued, the police responded with escalating violence, leading to clashes and injuries on both sides.
Criticism was directed towards the police for their handling of the protests, including allegations of excessive use of force and brutality. Riot gear, tear gas, rubber bullets, and, in some instances, live ammunition were employed by the police to disperse the protesters. Disturbing reports also emerged of police officers assaulting detained protesters.
The impact on young protesters during these events was substantial, with many experiencing tear gas exposure, physical assault, or arrest. Disturbingly, some have developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result. I express my gratitude to the ten protesters who courageously shared their stories about the Hong Kong protests. I recognize that these events were deeply challenging and traumatic for many of you, and I want you to know that your voices have been heard. The trauma endured by you and numerous other protesters during the protests was significant and should not be underestimated. It is crucial that those responsible for the excessive use of force and violence by the police are held accountable for their actions.
Reflecting on how live streams and internet images were employed to report on the Hong Kong protests weighs heavily on my heart. On one hand, these visuals brought to light the brutality and excessive force employed by the police against peaceful demonstrators. However, on the other hand, these images can be easily manipulated and taken out of context, leading to misinformation and propaganda.
The potency of these images can be exploited to shape public opinion and control the narrative, particularly in authoritarian regimes that utilize propaganda and censorship to manipulate information flow and influence public perception. The Hong Kong protests serve as a stark reminder of how our freedoms can be eroded with alarming ease, underscoring the importance of upholding free speech and democracy.
