While Seattle seemed quite peaceful this past summer, Hong Kong was filled with political unrest instead of popsicles and sunshine.

 

"My parents thought it was very dangerous, but what a pity since I didn't get to see Mr Anderson…" said Tao Li '20, an ASB member who couldn't come back to Seattle for the ASB retreat on Whidbey Island lead by Mr. A. because of the protests.

 

This summer a conflict in China began when at least one million people objected to an extradition law that allows China to freely arrest any individual from Hong Kong and hold the trial in China. This rule, to many people living in Hong Kong, breaks the promise from China to Hong Kong that they call the "One Country, Two System Rule."

 

Citizens livestreamed on YouTube videos of subway stations burning down, people throwing gasoline bombs, foreigners blocked in the airport for days, and pictures of the Chinese Global Times journalist who was brutally beaten and abused in the airport for 4 hours after stating his support for the Chinese government. 

 

The issue has not lost momentum as violence continues in Hong Kong.

 

Li says he struggles with what is going on. "Hong Kong is a part of China." Li said. "Initially, I didn't agree with the law because personally I am not confident in justified sanctions from the Chinese government, but once I realized this was domestic violence instead of peaceful protest, my views were changed."

 

According to Li, even the way you dress could put you in a dangerous situation. "I learned this while visiting Hong Kong: Don't wear white shirts because the protestors, who dress in all black and carry American flags where ever they go, will come hurt you…"