Inspired by the 1989 "Baltic Way," Hong Kongers held hands across the city in protest of the government.
ADVERTISEMENTHONG KONG — Hand-in-hand, protesters formed a 28-mile human chain across 39 train stations in Hong Kong on Friday.The demonstrators sang songs as they held small signs that said, "Thank you for supporting freedom and democracy."The latest demonstration in the 11-week movement that stemmed from outrage over a proposed extradition bill was inspired by 1989 protests across Baltic states._Download the NBC News app for breaking news and politics_On Aug. 23, 1989, the so-called Baltic Way involved 2 million Latvians, Lithuanians and Estonians protesting against Soviet domination of the region."I joined the Hong Kong Way because it's peaceful," protester Peter Cheung, 27, told Reuters, referring to the campaign's name. "This is the 30th anniversary of the Baltic Way. I hope there will be a bigger chance to make an international noise."
Dozens were also shining lights from the top of Kowloon's Lion Rock, visible from the main island of Hong Kong, in an act of defiance after warnings from Communist Party leaders in Beijing and Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam about violence.The Hong Kong protesters' demands have expanded from the original request in June to scrap the extradition bill, which many feared would give Beijing greater control over the territory by allowing suspects to handed over to mainland China.
With mounting fears that their rights are being eroded, protesters are now demanding greater democratic freedoms, the resignation of Lam, and an investigation into claims of excessive use force use by policeas demonstrations have turned violent.China's Hong Kong affairs office has condemned the mayhem as "near-terrorist acts" — but that hasn't slowed the momentum of protesters.
The human chain — intended to "be a show of solidarity ... and a plea for international support," according to organizers — was the second show of force by protesters on Friday. Earlier, hundreds marched in a demonstration led by accountants. Lawyers, teachers and medical workers have previously rallied in support of the protests.
The former British colony became a special administrative region of China in 1997. Unlike those living on the mainland, the territory's 7 million residents can freely surf the internet and participate in public protests.Paul Goldman reported from Hong Kong, and Linda Givetash from London.