As violence and vandalism escalate in Hong Kong, some protest supporters have had enough

Jessie Yeung
By Jessie Yeung, CNN
Updated 6:51 AM EDT, Sun October 27, 2019
World News
HONG KONG, CHINA - OCTOBER 13: A pro-democracy protester attempts to break a tourist bus front windows in Mongkok district on October 13, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Hong Kong's government invoked emergency powers last week to introduce an anti-mask law which bans people from wearing masks at public assemblies as the city remains on edge with the anti-government movement entering its fourth month. Protesters in Hong Kong continue to call for Chief Executive Carrie Lam to meet their remaining demands since the controversial extradition bill was withdrawn, which includes an independent inquiry into police brutality, the retraction of the word riot to describe the rallies, and genuine universal suffrage, as the territory faces a leadership crisis.
HONG KONG, CHINA - OCTOBER 13: A pro-democracy protester attempts to break a tourist bus front windows in Mongkok district on October 13, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Hong Kong's government invoked emergency powers last week to introduce an anti-mask law which bans people from wearing masks at public assemblies as the city remains on edge with the anti-government movement entering its fourth month. Protesters in Hong Kong continue to call for Chief Executive Carrie Lam to meet their remaining demands since the controversial extradition bill was withdrawn, which includes an independent inquiry into police brutality, the retraction of the word riot to describe the rallies, and genuine universal suffrage, as the territory faces a leadership crisis.
Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
Now playing
02:14
Over 200 arrested as violence escalates in Hong Kong
Douyin/State Media
Now playing
03:59
See Chinese police show of force in response to assaults on women
Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid smiles ahead of the vote on a bill to dissolve parliament, at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, Thursday, June 30, 2022. Lapid will serve as caretaker prime minister until elections this fall. It would be Israel's fifth election in under four years. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid smiles ahead of the vote on a bill to dissolve parliament, at the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem, Thursday, June 30, 2022. Lapid will serve as caretaker prime minister until elections this fall. It would be Israel's fifth election in under four years. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
Ariel Schalit/AP
Now playing
02:26
Yair Lapid takes over as Israel's caretaker prime minister
CNN
Now playing
02:36
Hear what this Parmesan producer has to say about worst drought in 70 years
CNN
Now playing
01:18
NATO Secretary General: Madrid summit a 'victory' for the alliance
President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference on the final day of the NATO summit in Madrid, Thursday, June 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
President Joe Biden speaks during a news conference on the final day of the NATO summit in Madrid, Thursday, June 30, 2022. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Susan Walsh/AP
Now playing
01:29
Biden: 'The reason gas prices are up is because of Russia'
Hong Kong's new Chief Executive John Lee (L) walks with China's President Xi Jinping (R) following Xi's speech after a ceremony to inaugurate the city's new leader and government in Hong Kong on July 1, 2022, on the 25th anniversary of the city's handover from Britain to China. (Photo by Selim CHTAYTI / POOL / AFP) (Photo by SELIM CHTAYTI/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Hong Kong's new Chief Executive John Lee (L) walks with China's President Xi Jinping (R) following Xi's speech after a ceremony to inaugurate the city's new leader and government in Hong Kong on July 1, 2022, on the 25th anniversary of the city's handover from Britain to China. (Photo by Selim CHTAYTI / POOL / AFP) (Photo by SELIM CHTAYTI/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
SELIM CHTAYTI/AFP/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Now playing
02:56
Xi Jinping makes 'very odd' move during visit to Hong Kong
Maxar
Now playing
02:20
Symbol of Ukrainian resistance at center of new dispute
AFPTV
Now playing
02:51
Congolese people honor first prime minister after stolen remains returned
CNN
Now playing
01:20
Amanpour: I've covered repressive regimes but I've never seen this
Now playing
03:24
This grave should 'serve as a warning': The impact of Poland's abortion ban
CNN
Now playing
01:50
'Our relationship is on pause': Ukraine's first lady on coping with personal strain of war
CNN
Now playing
02:34
See how a US volunteer fighter is training Ukrainians to use weapons
Baykar Technologies
Now playing
04:47
CNN report: Will Turkey's 'drone policy' work?
More than 1,000 people were inside a mall in the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk when a Russian missile was fired at the building, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
More than 1,000 people were inside a mall in the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk when a Russian missile was fired at the building, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
From Facebook
Now playing
02:38
Shopping market seen on fire after airstrike in Kremenchuk
Douyin/WeChat
Now playing
03:35
Video: China tests everything for Covid, even wind from North Korea

Editor’s Note: Six Hong Kong residents who spoke to CNN for this story requested anonymity because they feared being targeted for their comments. Jose asked we only use her last name. “Millie,” “Sarah,” “Marcus,” “Yara,” and “Patrick” requested pseudonyms.

Hong Kong CNN  — 

For most of the summer, 25-year-old Jose was an ardent supporter of the protests raging in Hong Kong. Even when demonstrations became increasingly violent, she defended the protesters themselves – they were provoked, or were fighting for a greater good, she would argue.

Then August 13 happened. That night, she watched live streams, horrified, as a mob of protesters at Hong Kong airport surrounded a man they claimed was an undercover police officer. They bound his wrists, lashed out at him after he appeared to lose consciousness, and shouted down those who pleaded to get him medical attention.

“I remember being in disbelief, looking at my TV – like, what’s happening? Why have they done this?” Jose said. “Up until that day, I’d understood what they were fighting for … I went back into my room and sat there looking at my wall for a very long time.”

Hong Kong protesters' 5 demands

  • Fully withdraw the extradition bill
  • Set up an independent inquiry to probe police brutality
  • Withdraw the characterization of protests as “riots”
  • Release those arrested at protests
  • Implement universal suffrage in Hong Kong

    • The airport incident marked one of the defining moments in the protests, which began in June with peaceful mass marches against a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed extradition to mainland China, among other countries. It has since spiraled into a broader pro-democracy, anti-government movement, with protesters laying out five major demands – only one of which has been met.

    Both sides accuse the other of using excessive violence, and provoking the use of police tear gas and protester petrol bombs. Even Hong Kong itself is covered with marks of the unrest, with shops vandalized and boarded up, and many subway station entrances charcoal-black from fires set by protesters.

    However with no clear end in sight, new divisions appear to be emerging in the city – besides the hardcore protest frontliners and fierce opponents, now there are wavering sideline supporters and moderates who say they have been driven away by the violence.

    When does it go too far?

    Most people have a different answer over whether the unrest has crossed the line. Protesters say they’re not there yet because they haven’t killed or seriously injured anyone – if anything, they think the police are the ones who have gone too far.

    Marcus, a 22-year-old protester, said he drew the line at “unneeded violence” – but like many in the movement, he saw their actions as largely justified. For instance, he felt the airport violence went too far, but quickly pointed out that the mob had allegedly found evidence the man was an undercover police officer.

    HONG KONG, HONG KONG - JULY 21: Protesters clash with police amid tear gas after taking part in an anti-extradition bill march on July 21, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Pro-democracy protesters have continued weekly rallies on the streets of Hong Kong against a controversial extradition bill since June 9, as the city plunged into crisis after waves of demonstrations and several violent clashes. Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam apologized for introducing the bill and recently declared it "dead", however protesters have continued to draw large crowds with demands for Lam's resignation and completely withdraw the bill. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
    HONG KONG, HONG KONG - JULY 21: Protesters clash with police amid tear gas after taking part in an anti-extradition bill march on July 21, 2019 in Hong Kong, China. Pro-democracy protesters have continued weekly rallies on the streets of Hong Kong against a controversial extradition bill since June 9, as the city plunged into crisis after waves of demonstrations and several violent clashes. Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam apologized for introducing the bill and recently declared it "dead", however protesters have continued to draw large crowds with demands for Lam's resignation and completely withdraw the bill. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images AsiaPac/Getty Images

    Why Hong Kong's young protesters feel they're running out of time in fight for democracy

    “When you’re in a situation like that, no one has time to be like, let me fact-check this,” he said. “The proof was there in his bag.”

    Marcus’ stance reflects an apparently common attitude among the movement and its sympathizers – a vague opposition to violence, but an instinct for leniency when it comes to the protesters. “If we lose, it’s called a riot,” said Yara, a 22-year-old education consulting employee. “But if we win, it will be called a revolution, and all the violence will be for good, ultimately.”

    Protesters set a Bank of China branch on fire in Hong Kong on October 13, 2019.
    Protesters set a Bank of China branch on fire in Hong Kong on October 13, 2019.
    Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    Multiple protesters who spoke with CNN returned to this perceived image of a greater good. They say they fear Hong Kong will lose its protected freedoms of speech, press and assembly, and that the semi-autonomous city will ultimately be swallowed up by mainland China.

    When faced with such a fate, real or perceived, the demonstrators say little else seems to matter. Transit woes, missed flights, even disrupted education – to them, these all seem like worthy sacrifices for a movement they believe could save the city.

    Critics in the “silent majority”

    Standing in sharp contrast on the other side are members of the self-dubbed “silent majority” – people who oppose the unrest. They argue that the protesters are spreading chaos and fear across the city, trashing the economy, and hurting not just their own cause but everybody caught in the crossfire.

    It’s unclear how many people are actually in the “silent majority,” or if they really are a majority at all, but the group appears to be slowly growing – publicly at least. One Facebook group critical of the protests has amassed more than 125,000 members in two months.

    For comparison, one of the largest protest groups on the encrypted messaging app Telegram has about 240,000 members.

    Many say there can be no pardoning of the protesters’ violence and vandalism. To do so would effectively justify violence against anybody with a different view, they say, and open the door to dangerous polarization and censorship.

    Hong Kong's self-dubbed "silent majority" held a rally in support of the police on July 20, 2019.
    Hong Kong's self-dubbed "silent majority" held a rally in support of the police on July 20, 2019.
    LAUREL CHOR/AFP/Getty Images

    Even more sinister than the destruction itself is “the acceptance from the anti-government people,” said Patrick, 26, who also initially supported the demonstrators’ right to peaceful protest before the situation escalated.

    He accused supporters on the sidelines of expressing “no condemnation” – meaning they were either scared to speak out against the movement, or truly believed that violence was right. He said he doesn’t know which is worse.

    “I think that’s the scary part – not just the action itself, but the reaction to the action,” he added.

    Some protesters have apologized for mistakenly vandalizing politically neutral shops, and for the airport mob attack. But many say it’s not enough.

    Demonstrators hold an apology sign at the Hong Kong International Airport on August 14, 2019.
    Demonstrators hold an apology sign at the Hong Kong International Airport on August 14, 2019.
    Paul Yeung/Bloomberg/Getty Images

    “There’s no trial and error when it comes to violence,” said Sarah, 41. She supported the peaceful mass marches in June, but started withdrawing her support when protesters began vandalizing the subway, attacking police officers, and leaking private information about the officers’ families online.

    Millie, a 39-year-old banking industry employee, said the protesters’ disruption of transit systems was not merely an inconvenience, but an infringement on regular people’s right to daily life.

    “They’re taking a piece of freedom from that person to travel,” she said. “Blocking people – which is their freedom to go about their own business – that’s the line for me.”

    Among this “silent majority,” they also talk of a simple bewilderment – if the protesters want democracy, why are they smashing ATMs? What does vandalizing the subway system have to do with universal suffrage?

    When given the protesters’ reasons – that the ATMs belong to Chinese-owned banks, that protesters believe the subway operator is in cahoots with the police – the critics interviewed by CNN wave them away as alarmist, counterproductive, or as Sarah put it, just plain “stupid.”

    “Even if the government cornered them, that doesn’t legitimize the violence,” she said. “The law is the law. You don’t hurt people, you don’t break government property.”

    A riot policeman sprays pepper spray at a man as they disperse a crowd during a demonstration against "parallel traders" who buy goods in Hong Kong to resell in mainland China on Sunday, January 5.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Andy Wong/AP
    A riot policeman sprays pepper spray at a man as they disperse a crowd during a demonstration against "parallel traders" who buy goods in Hong Kong to resell in mainland China on Sunday, January 5.
    Pro-democracy supporters hold placards as they take part in a New Year's Day rally on Wednesday, January 1 in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy supporters hold placards as they take part in a New Year's Day rally on Wednesday, January 1 in Hong Kong.
    Pro-democracy supporters wave flags during a countdown party in Tsim Sha Tsui district on New Year's Eve.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy supporters wave flags during a countdown party in Tsim Sha Tsui district on New Year's Eve.
    Police arrive to conduct a clearance operation in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong on December 31.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images
    Police arrive to conduct a clearance operation in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong on December 31.
    Protesters take photos of a 'Free HK' light display at a gathering in the Central district of Hong Kong on December 30.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Isaac Lawrence/AFP via Getty Images
    Protesters take photos of a 'Free HK' light display at a gathering in the Central district of Hong Kong on December 30.
    A man is detained by riot police during a demonstration in a shopping mall at Sheung Shui district on December 28.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A man is detained by riot police during a demonstration in a shopping mall at Sheung Shui district on December 28.
    A protester reacts after police fire tear gas to disperse bystanders in the Jordan district of Hong Kong, early on December 25.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images
    A protester reacts after police fire tear gas to disperse bystanders in the Jordan district of Hong Kong, early on December 25.
    People celebrating the holidays react to tear gas as police confront protesters on Christmas Eve.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    People celebrating the holidays react to tear gas as police confront protesters on Christmas Eve.
    Protesters march in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Protesters march in Hong Kong.
    Protesters stage a rally outside the US Consulate in Hong Kong on Sunday, December 1. Hundreds gathered Sunday afternoon outside the US Consulate for another pro-US rally to show support for President Trump after he signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Thian/AP
    Protesters stage a rally outside the US Consulate in Hong Kong on Sunday, December 1. Hundreds gathered Sunday afternoon outside the US Consulate for another pro-US rally to show support for President Trump after he signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law.
    People take part in a march from Tsim Sha Tsui to Hung Hom in Hong Kong on December 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    People take part in a march from Tsim Sha Tsui to Hung Hom in Hong Kong on December 1.
    Pro-democracy candidate Jimmy Sham, right, celebrates with a supporter after winning his election in the Sha Tin district, early November 25. "Today's result represents (my constituency's) support to protesters. The government should immediately establish the Five Demands and respond to the public's voices," Sham posted on Facebook, referencing a long-standing protest slogan.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Thian/AP
    Pro-democracy candidate Jimmy Sham, right, celebrates with a supporter after winning his election in the Sha Tin district, early November 25. "Today's result represents (my constituency's) support to protesters. The government should immediately establish the Five Demands and respond to the public's voices," Sham posted on Facebook, referencing a long-standing protest slogan.
    Pro-democracy candidate James Yu hugs his girlfriend after winning his seat in district council elections, early November 25.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Pro-democracy candidate James Yu hugs his girlfriend after winning his seat in district council elections, early November 25.
    People line up to vote outside of a polling place in Hong Kong, November 24. More than <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/24/asia/hong-kong-district-council-elections-intl/index.html" target="_blank">2.9 million people turned out</a> to vote in Sunday's elections, which have been framed as a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/22/asia/hong-kong-protests-district-council-elections-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">de facto referendum</a> on the almost six months of ongoing protests.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    People line up to vote outside of a polling place in Hong Kong, November 24. More than 2.9 million people turned out to vote in Sunday's elections, which have been framed as a de facto referendum on the almost six months of ongoing protests.
    Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam casts her ballot for the district council elections at a polling place, November 24. In a statement Monday, Lam said her government "respects the election results."
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam casts her ballot for the district council elections at a polling place, November 24. In a statement Monday, Lam said her government "respects the election results."
    A group of protesters leave the Hong Kong Polytechnic University holding hands before surrendering to police in the Hung Hom district on November 22.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Dale de la Rey/AFP/Getty Images
    A group of protesters leave the Hong Kong Polytechnic University holding hands before surrendering to police in the Hung Hom district on November 22.
    Protesters use clothes and helmets to form "SOS" at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 21.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Thian/AP
    Protesters use clothes and helmets to form "SOS" at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 21.
    Protesters raise their hands to represent the five demands of pro-democracy demonstrators during a rally in support of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in the U.S., at the IFC Mall in Hong Kong, on November 21.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Ng Han Guan/AP
    Protesters raise their hands to represent the five demands of pro-democracy demonstrators during a rally in support of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in the U.S., at the IFC Mall in Hong Kong, on November 21.
    Tables and chairs piled up to create a barrier are left behind by protesters who barricaded themselves inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
    Tables and chairs piled up to create a barrier are left behind by protesters who barricaded themselves inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    A Fire Services Department rescue diver prepares to enter the sewage system on November 20 to search for protesters who escaped from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A Fire Services Department rescue diver prepares to enter the sewage system on November 20 to search for protesters who escaped from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    Police detain a group of people after they tried to flee the Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus on November 19. Last week, thousands of student protesters streamed into the <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/19/asia/hong-kong-polytechnic-university-scene-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">university and occupied the campus </a>as the city's violent political unrest reached fever pitch.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
    Police detain a group of people after they tried to flee the Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus on November 19. Last week, thousands of student protesters streamed into the university and occupied the campus as the city's violent political unrest reached fever pitch.
    A protester uses a flashlight while crawling through a sewer tunnel to see how wide it is as he and others try to find an escape route from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    A protester uses a flashlight while crawling through a sewer tunnel to see how wide it is as he and others try to find an escape route from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
    A protester walks through a gymnasium at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    A protester walks through a gymnasium at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 19.
    Protesters react as police fire tear gas in the Kowloon area of Hong Kong, Monday, November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Protesters react as police fire tear gas in the Kowloon area of Hong Kong, Monday, November 18.
    Firefighters put out a burning car set on fire by protesters near Hong Kong Polytechnic University in the Tsim Sha Tsui district on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
    Firefighters put out a burning car set on fire by protesters near Hong Kong Polytechnic University in the Tsim Sha Tsui district on November 18.
    Police in riot gear move through a cloud of smoke as they detain a protester at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong on November 18. Police have <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/asia/live-news/hong-kong-protests-live-nov-18-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">attempted to clear the university</a>, which has been occupied by protesters for days as a strategic protest base.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Ng Han Guan/AP
    Police in riot gear move through a cloud of smoke as they detain a protester at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong on November 18. Police have attempted to clear the university, which has been occupied by protesters for days as a strategic protest base.
    Police fire tear gas as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Polytechnic University via a bridge on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Dale de la Rey/AFP via Getty Images
    Police fire tear gas as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Polytechnic University via a bridge on November 18.
    A member of the police clashes with a protester at the Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A member of the police clashes with a protester at the Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
    Protesters use a rope to lower themselves from a pedestrian bridge to waiting motorbikes to escape from police at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Protesters use a rope to lower themselves from a pedestrian bridge to waiting motorbikes to escape from police at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    A protester throws an umbrella onto a fire at the barricaded main entrance of Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
    A protester throws an umbrella onto a fire at the barricaded main entrance of Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    An anti-government protester is detained at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Laurel Chor/Getty Images
    An anti-government protester is detained at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    An anti-government protester is showered down by volunteer medical workers after he was soaked by a police water cannons firing pepper spray-infused water at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    An anti-government protester is showered down by volunteer medical workers after he was soaked by a police water cannons firing pepper spray-infused water at Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 18.
    Riot police fire tear gas and rubber bullets as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Riot police fire tear gas and rubber bullets as protesters attempt to leave Hong Kong Poytechnic University on November 18.
    A protester prepares to shoot an arrow during a confrontation with police.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    A protester prepares to shoot an arrow during a confrontation with police.
    Police use a water cannon outside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ISAAC LAWRENCE/AFP/Getty Images
    Police use a water cannon outside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
    A protester throws a Molotov cocktail at police on November 17.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
    A protester throws a Molotov cocktail at police on November 17.
    Protesters use a catapult to fire bricks at the police from inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 17.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters use a catapult to fire bricks at the police from inside the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 17.
    A woman tries to hold back riot police from approaching the Hong Kong University in Hong Kong on Saturday.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Ng Han Guan/AP
    A woman tries to hold back riot police from approaching the Hong Kong University in Hong Kong on Saturday.
    Protesters train to throw Molotov cocktails into a swimming pool on the campus of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Miguel Candela/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
    Protesters train to throw Molotov cocktails into a swimming pool on the campus of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
    Protesters walk past barricades of bricks on a road near the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Protesters walk past barricades of bricks on a road near the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on November 14.
    Demonstrators gather during a lunchtime protest in the financial district of Hong Kong on November 14.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Demonstrators gather during a lunchtime protest in the financial district of Hong Kong on November 14.
    A protester releases a flaming arrow to light a barricade at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Wednesday, November 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
    A protester releases a flaming arrow to light a barricade at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Wednesday, November 13.
    A Molotov cocktail, a gas mask and a yellow construction helmet are placed upon a bust of late hotel tycoon Hui Yeung Shing at the campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
    A Molotov cocktail, a gas mask and a yellow construction helmet are placed upon a bust of late hotel tycoon Hui Yeung Shing at the campus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
    A fire is seen at a Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station during a demonstration at The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A fire is seen at a Mass Transit Railway (MTR) station during a demonstration at The Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 13.
    Students attempt to clear tear gas canisters fired by riot police onto a sports track during a confrontation at the Chinese University in Hong Kong on Tuesday, November 12.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    AP Photo
    Students attempt to clear tear gas canisters fired by riot police onto a sports track during a confrontation at the Chinese University in Hong Kong on Tuesday, November 12.
    A man is detained during a protest at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 12.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    A man is detained during a protest at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on November 12.
    Students block an escalator with chairs in an attempt to hamper police at the University of Hong Kong on November 12.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Students block an escalator with chairs in an attempt to hamper police at the University of Hong Kong on November 12.
    A protester is detained in the Central District of Hong Kong on November 11.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    A protester is detained in the Central District of Hong Kong on November 11.
    People react after tear gas was fired by police during a protest in Hong Kong's Central District on November 11.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    People react after tear gas was fired by police during a protest in Hong Kong's Central District on November 11.
    Riot police face off with protesters at an entrance of a shopping mall during a demonstration on November 10.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Riot police face off with protesters at an entrance of a shopping mall during a demonstration on November 10.
    A man is helped by a volunteer medic after police used pepper spray during a demonstration on November 10.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A man is helped by a volunteer medic after police used pepper spray during a demonstration on November 10.
    Students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) participate in a march on November 8, after hospital officials confirmed the <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/07/asia/hong-kong-protester-death-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">death of student Chow Tsz-lok</a>, 22. Police say Chow, a computer sciences student at HKUST, fell from the third floor to the second floor of a parking garage in the residential area of Tseung Kwan O in the early hours of November 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images
    Students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) participate in a march on November 8, after hospital officials confirmed the death of student Chow Tsz-lok, 22. Police say Chow, a computer sciences student at HKUST, fell from the third floor to the second floor of a parking garage in the residential area of Tseung Kwan O in the early hours of November 4.
    A person places a flower at a memorial for 22-year-old Hong Kong university student Chow Tsz-lok on November 8.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    A person places a flower at a memorial for 22-year-old Hong Kong university student Chow Tsz-lok on November 8.
    Students in gas masks are seen during a graduation ceremony at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on Thursday, November 7 in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
    Students in gas masks are seen during a graduation ceremony at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on Thursday, November 7 in Hong Kong.
    Firefighters stand outside the offices of China's Xinhua News Agency after its windows were damaged by protesters in Hong Kong on Saturday, November 2. Hong Kong riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas and used a water cannon Saturday to break up a rally by thousands of masked protesters demanding autonomy after Beijing indicated it could tighten its grip on the Chinese territory.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Firefighters stand outside the offices of China's Xinhua News Agency after its windows were damaged by protesters in Hong Kong on Saturday, November 2. Hong Kong riot police fired multiple rounds of tear gas and used a water cannon Saturday to break up a rally by thousands of masked protesters demanding autonomy after Beijing indicated it could tighten its grip on the Chinese territory.
    Richard Chan, a candidate for the district council elections, reacts after being pepper-sprayed by police in Hong Kong on November 2.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Richard Chan, a candidate for the district council elections, reacts after being pepper-sprayed by police in Hong Kong on November 2.
    Thousands of black-clad masked protesters streamed into Hong Kong's central shopping district for another rally on November 2.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Thousands of black-clad masked protesters streamed into Hong Kong's central shopping district for another rally on November 2.
    A person dressed as President Donald Trump waves an American flag on a street in Hong Kong on Thursday, October 31, 2019. Hong Kong authorities braced as pro-democracy protesters urged people on Thursday to celebrate Halloween by wearing masks on a march in defiance of a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/30/asia/halloween-hong-kong-mask-ban-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">government ban on face coverings</a>.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    A person dressed as President Donald Trump waves an American flag on a street in Hong Kong on Thursday, October 31, 2019. Hong Kong authorities braced as pro-democracy protesters urged people on Thursday to celebrate Halloween by wearing masks on a march in defiance of a government ban on face coverings.
    A man dressed as the Joker for Halloween walks past police officers on October 31.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    A man dressed as the Joker for Halloween walks past police officers on October 31.
    Pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong (second from left) and Kelvin Lam (second from right) shout slogans as they meet the media outside the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong on October 29, 2019, after Wong was barred from standing in an upcoming local election.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong (second from left) and Kelvin Lam (second from right) shout slogans as they meet the media outside the Legislative Council (LegCo) in Hong Kong on October 29, 2019, after Wong was barred from standing in an upcoming local election.
    A protester throws a tear gas canister on October 27 in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
    A protester throws a tear gas canister on October 27 in Hong Kong.
    A couple wearing Guy Fawkes masks watch a rally at Chater Garden in Hong Kong on October 26.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Mark Schiefelbein/AP
    A couple wearing Guy Fawkes masks watch a rally at Chater Garden in Hong Kong on October 26.
    Protesters start a fire in front of the MTR station during demonstration on October 27.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Ivan Cheung/SOPA Images/Getty Images
    Protesters start a fire in front of the MTR station during demonstration on October 27.
    Tear gas smoke is seen exploding over reporters during an anti-government protest in Mong Kok district in Hong Kong on October 27.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vernon Yuen/Getty Images
    Tear gas smoke is seen exploding over reporters during an anti-government protest in Mong Kok district in Hong Kong on October 27.
    High school students take part in a human chain rally outside Kowloon park in Hong Kong on October 25.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    High school students take part in a human chain rally outside Kowloon park in Hong Kong on October 25.
    Police fire blue dye toward protesters in Hong Kong on Sunday, October 20. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Police fire blue dye toward protesters in Hong Kong on Sunday, October 20. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
    A pro-democracy protester is arrested by police on October 20.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A pro-democracy protester is arrested by police on October 20.
    Pro-democracy lawmakers protest as Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam delivers a speech at the Legislative Council on Wednesday, October 16. Lam's annual policy address <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/16/asia/hong-kong-protests-explosives-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">ended in chaos</a> as pro-democracy lawmakers repeatedly disrupted her speech and heckled her with calls to honor the demands of anti-government protesters.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Mark Schiefelbein/AP
    Pro-democracy lawmakers protest as Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam delivers a speech at the Legislative Council on Wednesday, October 16. Lam's annual policy address ended in chaos as pro-democracy lawmakers repeatedly disrupted her speech and heckled her with calls to honor the demands of anti-government protesters.
    A protester shoots a basketball at a poster of Lam during a rally on Tuesday, October 15.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
    A protester shoots a basketball at a poster of Lam during a rally on Tuesday, October 15.
    Protesters set fire to a Bank of China branch on Sunday, October 13. It was the 19th consecutive weekend of anti-government protests in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/Getty Images
    Protesters set fire to a Bank of China branch on Sunday, October 13. It was the 19th consecutive weekend of anti-government protests in Hong Kong.
    Protesters use the lights on their phones during a rally in central Hong Kong's business district.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Felipe Dana/AP
    Protesters use the lights on their phones during a rally in central Hong Kong's business district.
    A protester attempts to break a tourist bus window on October 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A protester attempts to break a tourist bus window on October 13.
    Protesters wearing masks in defiance of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/10/04/asia/hong-kong-face-mask-ban-meeting-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">a recently imposed ban</a> gather at a shopping mall on October 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Protesters wearing masks in defiance of a recently imposed ban gather at a shopping mall on October 13.
    Supporters surround a police bus carrying political activist Edward Leung as it leaves the High Court in Hong Kong on Wednesday, October 9. Several hundred masked protesters gathered at Hong Kong's High Court for the appeal hearing of Leung, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/11/asia/edward-leung-hong-kong-jailed-intl/index.html" target="_blank">who was sentenced to six years in prison</a> for his part in a violent clash with police.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Supporters surround a police bus carrying political activist Edward Leung as it leaves the High Court in Hong Kong on Wednesday, October 9. Several hundred masked protesters gathered at Hong Kong's High Court for the appeal hearing of Leung, who was sentenced to six years in prison for his part in a violent clash with police.
    A woman is treated after police fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the Mong Kok district of Hong Kong on October 7.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty Images
    A woman is treated after police fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the Mong Kok district of Hong Kong on October 7.
    Pro-democracy protesters gather in a shopping mall on October 7.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy protesters gather in a shopping mall on October 7.
    Rescue personnel check the bottom of a taxi after the driver allegedly drove onto the pavement, hitting protesters in Hong Kong on October 6.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Rescue personnel check the bottom of a taxi after the driver allegedly drove onto the pavement, hitting protesters in Hong Kong on October 6.
    A China Construction Bank is seen vandalized in the Causeway Bay area of Hong Kong on October 6.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A China Construction Bank is seen vandalized in the Causeway Bay area of Hong Kong on October 6.
    Pro-democracy protesters set fires in the street in the Causeway Bay area.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy protesters set fires in the street in the Causeway Bay area.
    People protest the ban against masks on Saturday, October 5.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Laurel Chor/Getty Images
    People protest the ban against masks on Saturday, October 5.
    An anti-government protester stands near a fire on Friday, October 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters
    An anti-government protester stands near a fire on Friday, October 4.
    Protesters move a statue depicting a protester armed with gas mask, helmet and umbrella on the streets of Hong Kong on October 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Protesters move a statue depicting a protester armed with gas mask, helmet and umbrella on the streets of Hong Kong on October 4.
    Protesters set a fire at a China Construction Bank.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Protesters set a fire at a China Construction Bank.
    Protesters spray paint slogans at the entrance to a tunnel on October 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Felipe Dana/AP
    Protesters spray paint slogans at the entrance to a tunnel on October 4.
    A store is in shambles after being vandalized by protesters.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Laurel Chor/Getty Images
    A store is in shambles after being vandalized by protesters.
    Pro-democracy demonstrators hold up their hands to symbolize their five demands during a rally on October 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Mohd Rasfan/AFPGetty Images
    Pro-democracy demonstrators hold up their hands to symbolize their five demands during a rally on October 4.
    Protesters throw petrol bombs at the gate to the Tsuen Wan police station on Wednesday, October 2.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
    Protesters throw petrol bombs at the gate to the Tsuen Wan police station on Wednesday, October 2.
    Schoolmates of a <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/10/01/asia/hong-kong-oct-1-protests-escalation-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">student who was shot in the chest by police</a> place their hands on their chests during a protest on October 2.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty Images
    Schoolmates of a student who was shot in the chest by police place their hands on their chests during a protest on October 2.
    A young protester was shot Tuesday, October 1, as violent protests erupted across Hong Kong on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The incident marked a major escalation in violence that could galvanize the protest movement in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Editorial Board, CityU SU/Reuters
    A young protester was shot Tuesday, October 1, as violent protests erupted across Hong Kong on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The incident marked a major escalation in violence that could galvanize the protest movement in Hong Kong.
    Police detain an anti-government protester on October 1. Thousands of black-clad protesters marched in central Hong Kong as part of multiple pro-democracy rallies.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Felipe Dana/AP
    Police detain an anti-government protester on October 1. Thousands of black-clad protesters marched in central Hong Kong as part of multiple pro-democracy rallies.
    Police tackle and arrest pro-democracy protesters during clashes on October 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Police tackle and arrest pro-democracy protesters during clashes on October 1.
    A protester is seen carrying rocks on a street on October 1. While events in Beijing were being held to mark the <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/10/01/world/gallery/china-70th-anniversary/index.html" target="_blank">70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China,</a> demonstrators rallied throughout Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Isaac Lawrence/AFP/Getty Images
    A protester is seen carrying rocks on a street on October 1. While events in Beijing were being held to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, demonstrators rallied throughout Hong Kong.
    Protesters react after police fired tear gas near the central government offices in Hong Kong's Admiralty area on October 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Nicolas Asfouri/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters react after police fired tear gas near the central government offices in Hong Kong's Admiralty area on October 1.
    Pro-democracy protesters form a "Pepe the Frog" themed human chain on Monday, September 30.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy protesters form a "Pepe the Frog" themed human chain on Monday, September 30.
    A man is detained by Hong Kong police during a protest in the Causeway Bay shopping district on Sunday, September 29.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    A man is detained by Hong Kong police during a protest in the Causeway Bay shopping district on Sunday, September 29.
    Bus passengers look at a burning barricade lit by pro-democracy protesters in front of the Mong Kok police station on Sunday, September 22.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Bus passengers look at a burning barricade lit by pro-democracy protesters in front of the Mong Kok police station on Sunday, September 22.
    Pro-democracy protesters sing songs and chant slogans during a rally inside a shopping mall on September 22.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy protesters sing songs and chant slogans during a rally inside a shopping mall on September 22.
    A pro-China supporter, center, is escorted by police after confronting journalists in Hong Kong on September 15.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    A pro-China supporter, center, is escorted by police after confronting journalists in Hong Kong on September 15.
    Pro-government and anti-government supporters chant against one another at a shopping mall in Hong Kong on Friday, September 13. The sign translates to "Stop violence and curb chaos; safeguard Hong Kong."
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Amr Abdallah Dalsh/Reuters
    Pro-government and anti-government supporters chant against one another at a shopping mall in Hong Kong on Friday, September 13. The sign translates to "Stop violence and curb chaos; safeguard Hong Kong."
    Demonstrators hold up their cell phone lights as they form a human chain at the Peak, a tourist spot in Hong Kong, on September 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Demonstrators hold up their cell phone lights as they form a human chain at the Peak, a tourist spot in Hong Kong, on September 13.
    Police escort an injured man after he attacked protesters outside Prince Edward station in Hong Kong on Friday, September 6.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Police escort an injured man after he attacked protesters outside Prince Edward station in Hong Kong on Friday, September 6.
    Protesters burn paper money to pay their respects to injured protesters.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Protesters burn paper money to pay their respects to injured protesters.
    Protesters prepare to clash with police outside the Mong Kok police station on September 6.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Protesters prepare to clash with police outside the Mong Kok police station on September 6.
    A protester is detained by police at the Po Lam Mass Transit Railway station on Thursday, September 5.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Tyrone Siu/Reuters
    A protester is detained by police at the Po Lam Mass Transit Railway station on Thursday, September 5.
    A man watches televisions at a store in Hong Kong as Chief Executive Carrie Lam announces the withdrawal of the extradition bill on Wednesday, September 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    A man watches televisions at a store in Hong Kong as Chief Executive Carrie Lam announces the withdrawal of the extradition bill on Wednesday, September 4.
    A woman gets emotional on September 4 while paying her respects to protesters who were injured a few days earlier.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters
    A woman gets emotional on September 4 while paying her respects to protesters who were injured a few days earlier.
    Demonstrators travel through a railway station during a rally on Tuesday, September 3.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kyle Lam/Bloomberg/Getty Images
    Demonstrators travel through a railway station during a rally on Tuesday, September 3.
    Students wearing gas masks and helmets hold a banner that reads "five major demands are indispensable" at St. Francis' Canossian College in Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    AP
    Students wearing gas masks and helmets hold a banner that reads "five major demands are indispensable" at St. Francis' Canossian College in Hong Kong.
    Protesters gather in the bus terminal at Hong Kong International Airport on Sunday, September 1. Hundreds of pro-democracy activists attempted to block transport routes to the city's airport.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters gather in the bus terminal at Hong Kong International Airport on Sunday, September 1. Hundreds of pro-democracy activists attempted to block transport routes to the city's airport.
    A passenger walks to the airport on September 1 as pro-democracy protesters blocked a road outside the airport.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    A passenger walks to the airport on September 1 as pro-democracy protesters blocked a road outside the airport.
    A protester uses a slingshot outside the Central Government Complex during clashes with police on Saturday, August 31. Thousands of pro-democracy protesters held an anti-government rally one day after several leading activists and lawmakers were arrested in a sweeping crackdown.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    A protester uses a slingshot outside the Central Government Complex during clashes with police on Saturday, August 31. Thousands of pro-democracy protesters held an anti-government rally one day after several leading activists and lawmakers were arrested in a sweeping crackdown.
    Protesters light a Molotov cocktail on August 31.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Protesters light a Molotov cocktail on August 31.
    Protesters take cover as policemen fire blue-colored water on them. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Protesters take cover as policemen fire blue-colored water on them. Blue dye can be used to stain and identify masked protesters.
    A surveillance camera is covered with white paint during protests.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Jae C. Hong/AP
    A surveillance camera is covered with white paint during protests.
    An overhead view shows protesters reacting after police fired tear gas on August 31.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
    An overhead view shows protesters reacting after police fired tear gas on August 31.
    Pro-democracy activists Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong speak to the media after they were released on bail at the Eastern Magistrates Courts on Friday, August 30. They were arrested earlier the same day in a dragnet across Hong Kong.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
    Pro-democracy activists Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong speak to the media after they were released on bail at the Eastern Magistrates Courts on Friday, August 30. They were arrested earlier the same day in a dragnet across Hong Kong.
    Protesters clash with police after a rally in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district on Sunday, August 25. <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/25/asia/hong-kong-protest-aug-25-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">It was one of the most violent nights</a> seen in Hong Kong since mass protests began in June.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
    Protesters clash with police after a rally in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district on Sunday, August 25. It was one of the most violent nights seen in Hong Kong since mass protests began in June.
    A police officer aims a gun in front of a protester on August 25.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Lam Yik Fei/The New York Times/Redux Pictures
    A police officer aims a gun in front of a protester on August 25.
    Some protesters shine laser pointers at police lines on August 25.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Some protesters shine laser pointers at police lines on August 25.
    Protesters pick up bricks to be used as projectiles on August 24.<br />
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Lillian Suwanrumpha/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters pick up bricks to be used as projectiles on August 24.
    Police retreat after clashing with protesters on August 24.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Police retreat after clashing with protesters on August 24.
    Cell phones shine from the top of Lion Rock on August 23.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    Cell phones shine from the top of Lion Rock on August 23.
    Protesters march under umbrellas on Sunday, August 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images
    Protesters march under umbrellas on Sunday, August 18.
    Tens of thousands of protesters showed up in the streets on August 18.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Tens of thousands of protesters showed up in the streets on August 18.
    A protester participates in a march on Saturday, August 17. His eye is covered with red gauze, referencing a woman who was allegedly shot in the eye with a beanbag round during clashes between protesters and police.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    A protester participates in a march on Saturday, August 17. His eye is covered with red gauze, referencing a woman who was allegedly shot in the eye with a beanbag round during clashes between protesters and police.
    Protesters point lasers at the Sham Shui Po police station on August 14.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Yu/AP
    Protesters point lasers at the Sham Shui Po police station on August 14.
    A police officer falls over an airport luggage trolley during a scuffle with pro-democracy protesters on Tuesday, August 13. For two days, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/13/asia/hong-kong-airport-chaos-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">protesters flooded the airport.</a> Check-ins were suspended and dozens of outgoing flights were canceled.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
    A police officer falls over an airport luggage trolley during a scuffle with pro-democracy protesters on Tuesday, August 13. For two days, protesters flooded the airport. Check-ins were suspended and dozens of outgoing flights were canceled.
    A traveler passes her luggage to security guards as she tries to enter the departures gate.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    A traveler passes her luggage to security guards as she tries to enter the departures gate.
    A display board shows canceled flights on August 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vernon Yuen/NurPhoto via Getty Images
    A display board shows canceled flights on August 13.
    Medics look after a woman who received a facial injury during clashes on Sunday, August 11.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Medics look after a woman who received a facial injury during clashes on Sunday, August 11.
    A pro-democracy protester is held by police outside the Tsim Sha Tsui police station on August 11.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
    A pro-democracy protester is held by police outside the Tsim Sha Tsui police station on August 11.
    Police fire tear gas at protesters during a demonstration in the Wong Tai Sin District on Monday, August 5.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Police fire tear gas at protesters during a demonstration in the Wong Tai Sin District on Monday, August 5.
    A train passenger gestures toward a protester, right, who was preventing the doors of a train from closing on August 5. The protester was trying to disrupt Hong Kong's morning rush-hour commute.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
    A train passenger gestures toward a protester, right, who was preventing the doors of a train from closing on August 5. The protester was trying to disrupt Hong Kong's morning rush-hour commute.
    A man comforts his pregnant wife near a train platform after protesters blocked the train doors on August 5.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    A man comforts his pregnant wife near a train platform after protesters blocked the train doors on August 5.
    A protester stands in tear gas during a confrontation with police in the early hours of Sunday, August 4.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Elson Li/AP
    A protester stands in tear gas during a confrontation with police in the early hours of Sunday, August 4.
    A Chinese flag floats in water after it was thrown by protesters during a demonstration on Saturday, August 3.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vincent Thian/AP
    A Chinese flag floats in water after it was thrown by protesters during a demonstration on Saturday, August 3.
    Members of Hong Kong's medical sector attend a protest in Edinburgh Place on Friday, August 2.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Members of Hong Kong's medical sector attend a protest in Edinburgh Place on Friday, August 2.
    The emblem on the China Liaison Office is protected by plexiglass during a demonstration on Sunday, July 28.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP/Getty Images
    The emblem on the China Liaison Office is protected by plexiglass during a demonstration on Sunday, July 28.
    A protester flees from baton-wielding police in the Yuen Long district of Hong Kong on Saturday, July 27.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Eric Tsang/HK01 via AP
    A protester flees from baton-wielding police in the Yuen Long district of Hong Kong on Saturday, July 27.
    A protester looks through umbrellas during the clashes with police on July 27.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Miguel Candela/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
    A protester looks through umbrellas during the clashes with police on July 27.
    Travelers watch as protesters rally at Hong Kong's international airport on Friday, July 26.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images
    Travelers watch as protesters rally at Hong Kong's international airport on Friday, July 26.
    Protesters clash with police on Sunday, July 21.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Chris McGrath/Getty Images
    Protesters clash with police on Sunday, July 21.
    Masked men in white T-shirts are seen after <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2019/07/23/asia/hong-kong-triad-arrests-intl-hnk/index.html" target="_blank">attacking anti-extradition bill demonstrators</a> at a train station in Yuen Long.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Tyrone Siu/Reuters
    Masked men in white T-shirts are seen after attacking anti-extradition bill demonstrators at a train station in Yuen Long.
    Medical workers help a protester affected by tear gas on July 21.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Bobby Yip/AP
    Medical workers help a protester affected by tear gas on July 21.
    The office of pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was trashed by protesters in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    The office of pro-Beijing lawmaker Junius Ho was trashed by protesters in Hong Kong's Tsuen Wan district.
    Police officers use pepper spray to disperse protesters after a rally in the Sheung Shui district on Saturday, July 13.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Police officers use pepper spray to disperse protesters after a rally in the Sheung Shui district on Saturday, July 13.
    A demonstrator sprays paint inside a chamber at Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, where protesters forced their way in on Monday, July 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Tyrone Siu/Reuters
    A demonstrator sprays paint inside a chamber at Hong Kong's Legislative Council building, where protesters forced their way in on Monday, July 1.
    A protester smashes a window of the Legislative Council building.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Ritchie B. Tongo/EPA-EFE/Shutters/Shutterstock
    A protester smashes a window of the Legislative Council building.
    Columns of sunlight are cast on a crowd during the march on July 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    Columns of sunlight are cast on a crowd during the march on July 1.
    Helicopters carrying the flags of China and Hong Kong fly over demonstrators on July 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kyle Lam/Bloomberg via Getty Images
    Helicopters carrying the flags of China and Hong Kong fly over demonstrators on July 1.
    A police officer uses pepper spray during a clash with protesters on July 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    A police officer uses pepper spray during a clash with protesters on July 1.
    A protester wearing a T-shirt with the word "revolution" walks past an inscription on a road that reads "Long Live HK."
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Kin Cheung/AP
    A protester wearing a T-shirt with the word "revolution" walks past an inscription on a road that reads "Long Live HK."
    Police detain protesters near the government headquarters in Hong Kong on July 1.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Vivek Prakash/AFP/Getty Images
    Police detain protesters near the government headquarters in Hong Kong on July 1.
    An overhead view shows thousands of protesters marching through a Hong Kong street on Sunday, June 16.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    STR/AFP/Getty Images
    An overhead view shows thousands of protesters marching through a Hong Kong street on Sunday, June 16.
    Protesters run after police fired tear gas on Wednesday, June 12.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters run after police fired tear gas on Wednesday, June 12.
    By the morning of June 12, tens of thousands of mainly young people had arrived in the area, blocking streets and bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters
    By the morning of June 12, tens of thousands of mainly young people had arrived in the area, blocking streets and bringing central Hong Kong to a standstill.
    A demonstrator holds a sign during the June 12 rally.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
    A demonstrator holds a sign during the June 12 rally.
    Police officers charge toward protesters during clashes on Monday, June 10. It was a continuation of protests that started the day before.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Anthony Kwan/Getty Images
    Police officers charge toward protesters during clashes on Monday, June 10. It was a continuation of protests that started the day before.
    Protesters on June 9 waved placards and wore white -- the designated color of the rally. "Hong Kong, never give up!" some chanted.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
    Protesters on June 9 waved placards and wore white -- the designated color of the rally. "Hong Kong, never give up!" some chanted.
    Students wear chains during a demonstration on Saturday, June 8.
    Photos: Hong Kong unrest
    Dale De La Rey/AFP/Getty Images
    Students wear chains during a demonstration on Saturday, June 8.

    The dividing line of privilege

    A common refrain among the movement is that the critics don’t understand the struggle because they have less of a personal stake in it. Maybe they’re wealthy, or an expat, or hold dual citizenship so they can leave Hong Kong anytime – their privilege prevents them from fully grasping the frontliners’ desperation, protesters say.

    Some within the “silent majority” acknowledge this. “I understand I’m probably one of the privileged ones, none of this really affects me,” said Sarah, who is of Hong Kong heritage but lived in Canada before moving to the city. “I check my privilege all the time. I understand that they’re stuck here… they don’t have a second passport, this is their home.”

    Still, she feels her privilege doesn’t make her criticisms wrong, just unwelcome. In fact, that distance means “it’s easy for me to be objective,” she said.

    Scattered merchandise inside a vandalized store during a protest in Hong Kong on October 20, 2019.
    Scattered merchandise inside a vandalized store during a protest in Hong Kong on October 20, 2019.
    Justin Chin/Bloomberg/Getty Images

    Others outright reject the notion that class or citizenship privilege has anything to do with the movement.

    “I don’t buy that argument,” Patrick said, pointing out that the movement is diverse, drawing supporters of all ages, nationalities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

    Millie said the protesters’ accusation of privilege was just an excuse. After all, she hadn’t been born into wealth or privilege. She admits the protesters may be facing societal obstacles – unaffordable living, dwindling upward mobility – but “we’ve all been there,” she said.

    Besides, Millie added, she only has Hong Kong citizenship. This is her home too – and the protesters are wrecking it.

    Support is wavering as the protests drag on

    Millie, Patrick, and Sarah had all supported the protests at the beginning, to various degrees. Sarah had been “absolutely against” the bill – but now that it’s been withdrawn, and the destruction has stretched on, “I don’t support (the protesters) at all,” she said.

    Even some of those still within the movement are beginning to pull back. After the shock of the airport mob attack, Jose questioned whether she could continue supporting it. Eventually, she decided the answer was yes – but she said she has disconnected somewhat, and engages less frequently than she used to.

    Hong Kong protesters vandalized a shop in Mongkok district on October 20, 2019.
    Hong Kong protesters vandalized a shop in Mongkok district on October 20, 2019.
    Billy H.C. Kwok/Getty Images

    Yara, the education worker, said she was recently walking through a mall late one night when she saw a store that protesters had vandalized because the owners were allegedly pro-China. An elderly cleaning worker was sweeping up broken window glass and complaining to friends that despite the late hour, she couldn’t go home because of the mess.

    “That made me realize, we’ve made our point with the vandalism, haven’t we?” Yara said. “We’ve made our point smashing the ATM machines … If we continue, people are going to slowly start seeing this as senseless violence. At a certain point, I think we need to rein in these people.”