Umbrella Diaries

Much has happened since “Occupy Central” in 2014 - much of them disappointing and frustrating.  So much so that a lot of people have lost hope in the future of democracy and a more open society in Hong Kong.  In this climate, out of the blue, an excellent documentary on the movement suddenly appeared. 

We had tried to register for a number of screenings without success.  Then I got us into  a screening at a Christian organisation on Thursday.  It was a small, crowded room, with a small screen.  Not the best environment to watch a movie.   But we are grateful for the chance to see the movie.  

The 2 hours of the screening passed rather quickly.  Hardly anyone stirred during the screening. We are all familiar with the outline and many details of the story.  Yet the documentary contains many intimate moments that captured our attention.  I was struck with the realisation that this is not an after-the-fact retelling of the story.  The director had obviously planned to make a documentary early on. He was able to capture many of the most dramatic moments, as if he was able to anticipate them and be at the right place at the right time.  

The movie highlights the consistent and strenuous efforts made by the leaders of the movement to stay non-violent, to use civic disobedience as a tactic to push for changes.  It refreshes our memory of the major events, and challenges us to place ourselves where and when things happened.   It is as if we are being asked: this is what they say and do.  What about you?  Where do you stand?  What are you going to do?

Most stayed for the discussions afterwards.  Many speakers stressed the disappointment and frustration of the developments since 2014.  Yet all stressed the need to remember, and to refuse to give up.   It might looked like a defeat.  Yet there were also many positives.  Many who were not interested in the issues were aroused by the movement.  Many young people displayed tremendous courage, wisdom, maturity and creativity.  The establishment is actually quite scared of the people.  That is why they are so intransigent, refusing to make any concessions, deploying overwhelming political power to suppress all dissent.  

History takes a long time to unfold.  Hence we have to be patient.  There is no guarantee that things will turn better; but it is also not pre-ordained that it will always turn worse.  There really is no hope only if we give up.  Not everyone believes in God.  But I do.  And I have hope.  There is really no other way to live, but to believe and persevere. 

The move is highly recommended.  Watch out for screenings.  In fact, this is only part 1, ending when “Occupy Central” started and the teargas deployed.  Part 2 is coming, depending on our support.   Where do you stand?  And what are you going to do?