Hong Kong protest front lines are no place for children

I am saddened to see that many protesters, including those who have been arrested, are very young, some in their early teens. The youngest was only 12.

These youngsters are too immature to really understand politics, or the real implications of the now-abandoned extradition bill, or comprehend the true essence of democracy, freedom and the rule of law.

That is why many of them are so susceptible to taking part in violence and vandalism. To them, freedom is doing whatever you like regardless of its legality. They are not mature enough to have self control or empathy, and are easily manipulated and provoked. This is why even movies have different ratings and some are not deemed suitable for children.

However, in Hong Kong, young protesters are being glorified as “sacrificing for the future of Hong Kong”. Some newspaper articles portray these protesters as young heroes who are willing to die for this revolutionary cause, with a few even preparing their “wills” in case the worst were to happen.

I have my doubts about the intentions of the journalists who write these articles. Are they encouraging more “young heroes” to join the protests and to make the ultimate sacrifice so as to escalate the protests?

Children should not be participating in protests, because they cannot really tell right from wrong. Participating in violent protests is even worse, as they can easily get hurt or thrown in jail.

Please leave our youngsters alone. Let them go back to school and continue their studies. Violence has no place in school life.

Hong Kong does not need to rely on children to save the future.

Icy Fok, To Kwa Wan