EC reacts to Hong Kong protests

The riots in Hong Kong have continued since March because citizens are fearful of China obtaining full control over the city, according to an Elmhurst College political science professor.

“China is fully committed to absorb Hong Kong by the 21st-century and for many of the Hongkongers that’s scary to them,” said Timothy Hazen, assistant professor of political science.

Hong Kong has been protesting the introduction of China’s Extradition Bill, which would allow Hong Kong citizens to be prosecuted in China.

Citizens began protesting because the bill could undermine Hong Kong’s freedom; protesters were met with tear gas, force, and water hoses from law enforcement who were trying to cease the citizens uprising.

As a result, the extradition bill was withdrawn on June 16.

The protestors have turned to the United States, asking President Donald Trump to liberate the city, which Trump rejected in fear that helping Hong Kong would hurt an ongoing trade deal with China.

“In a vacuum, the U.S. should support Hong Kong as best they can, but there’s so many nuances to it,” Hazen said. “China is just such a powerful country by size and by economics, and by population that is difficult for America to proudly, kind of blatantly get explicitly involved with the Hongkongers.”

At least one student said the ongoing riots serve as an example of how the fight for democracy is a powerful tool in learning the importance of a people seeking freedom.

“I think that students should be aware of this because not only does it sound helpful for people to be more careful with what’s happening outside your bubble,” said Jason Thomas, EC senior, “but it’s also sorta like history in the making, and I think we can really learn from how the protesters are handling Hong Kong.”