Ten Years Since Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement

The 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's Umbrella Movement, which demanded genuine universal suffrage, reflects a stark contrast to the current climate of repression. Once a vibrant pro-democracy movement symbolized by yellow umbrellas, it has largely been silenced under Beijing's stringent security laws, with many leaders jailed or exiled. Events commemorating the anniversary were held in Japan, as the Hong Kong government focused on overshadowing it with preparations for the upcoming celebration of the People's Republic of China's 75th anniversary. Recent legal actions against pro-democracy advocates, including imprisonments for minor protests, underscore the climate of fear and self-censorship. Activists like Chu Yiu-ming recall the movement's origins and the hope for democratic reforms that have since been dashed. As the situation in Hong Kong continues to deteriorate, many who once protested now reflect on a lost opportunity for change.