Hong Kong protestors dig in for the long haul with self-sustaining village

Hong Kong protesters have created a self-sustaining village within a month of taking their call for democracy to the streets, setting up changing rooms, tents for hire, a study area, first-aid stations and even their own security patrols as they prepare for the long haul. What started out as hastily built barricades against police pepper spray and tear gas, relying mainly on cling film and umbrellas, has evolved into a fully fledged campus with carpeted stairs, water coolers, WiFi and gas-fueled generators supporting mobile phones, desk lamps and amplifiers.

It’s instant architecture. We are just improvising. When it started to rain, over a dozen people made a cover over the study area within 15 minutes.

31-year-old artist George Wong

Supporters say the camp at Admiralty has developed organically, without a main organizer, but there are distinct teams in charge of areas like security, medical care, recycling and art work. Team members break into three shifts, morning, afternoon and night. The medical team, made up of more than 200 people, works across four main stations in Admiralty. Supply stations stocked with toilet paper and saline water to Nescafe and granola bars – all free for any passersby – are dotted every few yards and manned by around 40 volunteers. Protesters say the camp has been funded by themselves, sympathetic businesses and others willing to donate food and supplies.

We will not accept people’s money. Everyone can bring supplies. Even [airline] staff have been bringing hand wash and toilet wipes.

Snowboard coach Alvin L

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