This is the craziest day we have ever witnessed in our city. We had planned to play a football match in Shatin tonight, but after seeing what had been happening with the protest on the news, our team decided to forfeit with many of us decided to join the unarmed students and civilians. Stepping out of Admiralty station circa 6pm, I saw hundreds of people retreating from Harcourt Road all red-eyed; tear gas had just been fired, and I saw at least 5 more fired as soon as I got out. It was a warzone. Standing about 300m away, we were mildly affected by the mist, causing slight discomfort in our eyes; we could only imagine the pain suffered by those people at the front. These people, including my friends and myself, were completely unarmed. But we eere gased. What on earth warranted such violent crackdown on us? We were there to support the students and the democratic movenment, with no intention whatsoever to make enemies with the police. No flare bombs were thrown and no properties were damaged; people had even made way for cars to pass through as drivers applauded with gratitude and support. We were all there only to make a stance in a strong but civilised manner. The situation calmed after a while. We then stood peacefully on Harcourt Road as more people joined us. Some organisers reminded us to remain calm and restrained regardless of police action. Supplies including food and masks were distributed to those in need as the atmosphere became frighteningly quiet- we knew if the situation was to escalate, it would not come from the peoples side. And escalate it did. More tear gas followed. We saw hundreds of armed policemen coming our way from Central when we went out to grab something to bite. Soon later I received messages from friends who got hit. Soon organisers and student leaders then suggested people should leave for their own safety. With not much support, we also selfishly decided to go home. If you are still wondering, yes, this Occupy Central movement is illegal, no doubt about that. But when the government are not listening and there is no democratic system to keep them in check, what do you expect from us? How else do you expect us to make our voices heard? To be submissive like the rest of China? Im proud to say that I have never seen such peaceful and civilised protesters in the world; Im also utterly frustrated and disappointed with the police and above all, the central and HK governments. Many of my friends and fellow peaceful protesters are still out there, sacrificing their time and safety for a better Hong Kong. Whether you support the movement or not, please pray for them.
Posted on: Sun, 28 Sep 2014 16:54:31 +0000
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