The article discusses the evolution of protests in Hong Kong, particularly on July 1, which was once a day for marching for universal suffrage. Following Beijing's imposition of the National Security Law in 2020, public expressions and protests dwindled significantly. The law has effectively curtailed freedoms, leading to an atmosphere where celebrations have replaced protests, echoing sentiments of numbness among former activists. Chief Executive John Lee declared the city has returned to normalcy, despite growing concerns over civil liberties, with public spaces now heavily monitored and controlled.
"I stopped going in 2020, when marches were no longer allowed. Now it's just red flags and celebration. Maybe this is what numbness feels like just another holiday," Vinze told DW.
For many years, liberal citizens of Hong Kong marked July 1 by marching against what they saw as government overreach. But Beijing was undeterred in the summer of 2020, the authorities imposed the controversial National Security Law, abruptly shrinking the space for public expression.
Chief Executive John Lee insisted that the city 'has returned to normalcy.' 'Stability has been restored,' he stated, overlooking the erosion of civil liberties.
Looking back, it almost feels romantic that we once believed we could ask the government for change," Vinze reflected, reminiscing about the protests that once filled the streets.
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