Hong Kong protests, gay marriage: Second look
Letters to the editor:
China abides by law
The decision by the Chinese National People's Congress Standing Committee on Aug. 31 makes it possible for the people of Hong Kong to vote directly for their chief executive on a "one person, one vote" basis for the first time. This represents a sharp contrast to the 156 years under British rule when they were not allowed to choose their leader.
The nominating committee is contained in the Article 45 of the Basic Law and has its role in the election process. Each democracy is unique. The democracy in Hong Kong should conform to the law and its actual situation.
The "Occupy Central" protest blocked and paralyzed the city's financial and government district, undermined the rule of law and disrupted the public order. No government will accept illegal actions. Hong Kong is on a path to democracy, and the central government is committed to making that happen.
Geng Shuang, spokesman, Chinese Embassy; Washington, D.C.
Gay marriage advances
OK, people, get with the program. You cannot deny a particular group of people the civil rights that other citizens have. That is not going to continue, and it's shameful that it's still happening in many states right now. It has nothing to do with your religious beliefs. That argument makes no sense to me, and I don't want to hear it ("Gay marriage marches across USA: #tellusatoday"). This is about civil rights. Opponents of gay marriage are on the wrong side of history. And, one question: I don't know you, so why do you care whom I marry?
Sally Quick; Salem, Mass.