Hong Kong Police cracks down on Tiananmen Square commemorations

Commemorations for the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen square massacre were nowhere to be seen in Hong Kong this weekend, as police officers sealed off large parts of Victoria Park, where previous vigils were held. 

Chinese authorities have long banned any public commemorations, and this year the Hong Kong government does the same. 

June 4 is the anniversary of the Chinese military opening fire on its own citizens at Tiananmen square to end the student movement. The Chinese government never reported an official death toll, but human rights groups have estimates up in the thousands. 

Carrie Lam the chief executive of Hong Kong said that any commemoration events would be subject to the national security law. Other officials have warned that demonstrators will face prison sentences.

However, in dozens of cities around the globe, vigils continue to commemorate those who suffered in 1989. 

In a statement on Friday US secretary of state Anthony Blinken called the event a “massacre” and a “brutal assault.” 

“The efforts of these brave individuals will not be forgotten.  Each year, we honor and remember those who stood up for human rights and fundamental freedoms,” said Blinken. “To the people of China and to those who continue to stand against injustice and seek freedom, we will not forget June 4.”