Major Clashes Erupt in Hong Kong Ahead of China’s National Day – The New York Times

They also set fire to a decorative red sign that celebrated National Day and directed much of their taunting and chanting at the central Chinese government and the Communist Party. Some papered “Anti-ChiNazi” signs on the gates of businesses that they perceived to be pro-Beijing, including Chinese banks.

“Expel the Communist Party, free Hong Kong,” the crowd chanted at one point.

Jason To, 18, a university student who joined a march toward government offices, said he was afraid that if Hong Kong drew closer to mainland China, the city’s residents would lose their right to protest and their free press.

“I’m a Hong Konger, not a mainland Chinese.” Mr. To said, speaking through a gas mask. “All of us like China, but we don’t like the Communist Party. Their rule is problematic.”