The light has gone out ...

A pro-democracy protest in Hong Kong in December.Credit...Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times

Hong Kong, a free enterprise and successful democratic entity, is losing it's light thanks to Xi's determination to remain in power forever. Yours truly has two Hong Konger friends who have taught me much as to just how vibrant and interesting this city truly is, two essential quantities all societies need to stay healthy as civilization moves further into the 21st century. 

HONG KONG — China and its allies are using threats and pressure to get business to back Beijing’s increasingly hard-line stance toward Hong Kong, leading companies to muzzle or intimidate workers who speak out in protest.

Lawyers, bankers, professors and other professionals interviewed by The New York Times described a growing culture of fear in offices across the city. Employees face pressure to support pro-Beijing candidates in local elections and echo the Chinese government’s official line. Those who speak out can be punished or even forced out.

Read the detailed NYTimes piece in its entirety. It's the right thing to do.