Thursday, November 28th. America celebrated the ultimate example of communism failing, capitalism emerging, and mutual respect between vastly different cultures during Thanksgiving. On this day, Hong Kong celebrated thankfulness for American leadership in a Thanksgiving Day Assembly.
Thousands flooded Hong Kong’s Edinburgh Place for the Thanksgiving rally at approximately 7:00pm (their time).It was organized by the Hong Kong Higher Institutions International Affairs Delegation (HKIAD).
The rally had been planned for days out of respect for the House and Senate passing legislation to support pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.
Three approved rallies will take place simultaneously on Thursday evening.
At Edinburgh Place, Central, The Star-Spangled Banner plays from as crowds pour in for a Thanksgiving rally for the #HongKong Human Rights and Democracy Act, signed into law in the morning.
Video: HKFP. pic.twitter.com/Qv2DbSwGsX
— Hong Kong Free Press (@HongKongFP) November 28, 2019
Gratitude for the US increased on the 27th, when President Trump signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act (HRDA). It affirmed support for the protesters, which Trump was initially reluctant to do because he feared it would increase tensions with China as crucial trade talks continue.
Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and PROTECT Hong Kong Act, legislation supporting the Hong Kong protestors, were both signed into law by President Trump today per the White House. pic.twitter.com/bBqLJ9Ii0j
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) November 27, 2019
This Thanksgiving, Hong Kong was not forgotten as they struggle for freedom. Through their celebration, they remind us to celebrate liberty and show gratitude too, even as the city braces for more unsettling protests.
A sea of US flags is being waved at Edinburgh Place, as activists involved in speaking in Washington — including Denise Ho, Joshua Wong and Sunny Cheung — are set to speak.#hongkong pic.twitter.com/9nOPn9Sll9
— Hong Kong Free Press (@HongKongFP) November 28, 2019