Hong Kong’s citizens have begun waving American flags and singing the U.S. National Anthem amid ongoing protests against China’s control.
Videos on social media show Hong Kong citizens holding American flags and singing the anthem through bullhorns in what appears to be a show of solidarity and demonstration for their freedom.
U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw posted a video of the singing citizens and said, “Hong Kong is a modern-day struggle between tyrannical rule and free democracy. Protesters stand bravely in the face of violence to combat China’s authoritarian regime. They remind us why we value our freedom in America, and should stand by their side as they fight for theirs.”
The protesters have been demonstrating in Hong Kong’s streets since June in response to a proposed extradition bill that would’ve allowed those charged with crimes to be extradited to China for prosecution.
Although the bill was suspended after initial demonstrations, the protests have continued for more than two months as frustrated citizens show their rejection of Chinese control.
Frustrations have swelled as the police response is suspected of having amped up tensions by firing tear gas and water cannons at protesters.
Riot police stormed an airport on Hong Kong on Tuesday where the protesters have assembled for the second day in a row.
Chaos erupts in Hong Kong International Airport as riot police storm the terminals amid the second day of anti-government protests. https://t.co/qNvWV7X3Ad pic.twitter.com/Vs8it2D3a6
— ABC News (@ABC) August 13, 2019
China has deployed military vehicles just 18 miles from the Hong Kong border where they are assembling troops for a massive anti-riot exercise.
China Global TV Network, a news agency funded by the Chinese government, posted a video on YouTube showing citizens criticizing the Hong Kong protesters, denouncing their decision to fly American and British flags, and accusing them of “messing up society.”
