On this day in 2019, during the anti-extradition protests in Hong Kong, police fired rubber bullets and bean bag rounds at demonstrators, marking the first time such force was used. The government labeled the protests as a "riot." The clashes erupted as the Legislative Council was set to debate the controversial extradition bill. The violence resulted in injuries, including a teacher losing 97.5% vision in one eye. Several individuals were subsequently charged and received prison sentences for their involvement. #AntiExtraditionProtests #HongKong #ExtraditionBill #PoliceViolence #Injustice

The Education Bureau in #HongKong wants to make sure that students are singing the Chinese Anthem loud enough. This is another level of #brainwashing.

#freehongkong #hkdmovement

Former Australian Chief Justice Anthony Mason, who supports the retention of overseas judges in Hong Kong's Court of Final Appeal, strongly rejects the attacks on former UK Supreme Court judge Jonathan Sumption's character by the Hong Kong government and Chinese authorities. Mason describes Sumption as a highly respected judge. Regarding Sumption's comments on the impact of the national security law on Hong Kong's rule of law, Mason believes that even if judges disagree with the law's provisions, including finding them harsh or violating human rights, they must still apply the law if it is valid. #JudicialIndependence #JonathanSumption #AnthonyMason #OverseasJudges #RuleOfLaw #HongKong #NationalSecurityLaw

Hirano Uryu's denial of entry into Hong Kong further highlights the significant deterioration of freedom in the city. The restrictions on individuals expressing their views and commemorating events like the tragic incident involving Leung Kin-fai demonstrate the shrinking space for dissent and the erosion of fundamental rights. The situation underscores the concerns raised by many regarding the diminishing freedoms and the impact of national security legislation in Hong Kong. #FreedomOfExpression #DeterioratingFreedom #HongKong #NationalSecurityLaw

In addition to the recent event cancellations, the repeated disruptions and cancellations of cultural and community gatherings in Hong Kong further underscore the extremely limited freedom in the city. The stringent regulations and arbitrary enforcement by authorities have created an environment of uncertainty and fear, stifling the vibrant expression of diverse voices and restricting the fundamental rights of the people. The shrinking space for social and cultural activities reflects the alarming erosion of freedom in Hong Kong. #LimitedFreedom #EventCancellations #Uncertainty #ErosionOfRights #HongKong

On July 1, 2019, protesters stormed and occupied Hong Kong's Legislative Council (LegCo) building, a significant event in the anti-extradition bill movement. Demonstrators clashed with police, resulting in arrests and subsequent charges of rioting. Later, protesters escalated their actions by assaulting the LegCo entrance with metal barricades and rods. The government condemned the violence, and in the evening, protesters breached the building, raising banners and defacing symbols. The police eventually cleared the area, leading to further arrests. The aftermath saw individuals facing charges of rioting and unlawfully entering the LegCo premises. #July1st #LegCoOccupation #AntiExtraditionBill #Protests #HongKong

"The denial of Jimmy Lai's request for legal representation and the subsequent rejection of his appeal raise serious concerns about the fairness of the trial, which goes against Article 35 of the Basic Law of Hong Kong. These actions undermine the rule of law and the fundamental rights guaranteed by Hong Kong's legal framework. #BasicLawArticle35 #UnfairTrial #RuleOfLaw #HongKong"

Jul 5: Appeal by Department of Justice in the #HongKong court: 5 individuals acquitted of riot charges in connection with the anti-mask law protests. However, convictions for unlawful assembly with masked items upheld. High Court judge orders a retrial, stating the acquittal was 'illogical.' Defense intends to apply for case reopening. Critics argue DOJ's pursuit appears aimed at suppressing the freedom of protest in Hong Kong, raising concerns about the preservation of the rule of law. #FreedomOfProtest #JusticeSystem #RuleOfLaw

The increasing presence of mainlanders in Hong Kong through programs like the 'New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme' may alter the city's dynamics, but it cannot replace the professionals and the unique cultural aspects that define Hong Kong. The city's vibrant professional community and rich cultural heritage continue to shape its distinct identity. Despite changes, Hong Kong's resilience and the contributions of its people remain integral to its character. #HongKong #ProfessionalCommunity #CulturalIdentity