The Occupy Central protest camp at Admiralty is by far the largest of the three Umbrella Movement sites in the city, dwarfing those at Mong Kok and Causeway Bay. I first visited this location by Hong Kong’s legislative complex a few days after the protests began, now in their 6th week. Since then, many more tents have been set up, together with first aid stations, study and lecture areas, and replenishment stands. During the day it is relatively quiet, with the crowds growing in the evenings as office workers, tourists, and curious onlookers congregate with the students. There are lively (but civil) debates on democracy, the role of government, and the hopes and aspirations of the protesters – and of course the impact of the protests on the city. There is practically no police presence here.

Fellow blogger HongKongFong posted a great article on the movement and what’s at stake for all parties involved. She articulates very well the issues at play and the dilemmas faced by the protesters – a good read (and photos) if you are curious to know a little more about the challenges facing Hong Kong’s youth today.

As with the other sites, there are posters, banners, and protest installations scattered throughout the Admiralty camp. The so-called Lennon Wall in particular has tens of thousands of sticky notes where students, well-wishers, and the general public pen their thoughts and support for the movement. Regardless of how you feel about the protests, you cannot help but be impressed by the orderliness and organization of the camp. If only all protests were this calm and peaceful…

The photos were taken with various Pentax Takumar SMC legacy lenses adapted my X-Pro1 camera. Click on the picture for a better view.