Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Hong Kong Democracy Protesters Call For US Congress Proposed Sanctions

Brian Padden

   HONG KONG - Hong Kong pro-democracy advocates are urging the U.S.
   Congress to pass a human rights bill that could impose trade sanctions
   on this international financial center, a measure that critics say
   could cause more harm than good.
   At a massive pro-American, pro-democracy rally on Monday evening in
   central Hong Kong, supporters called for the passage of the Hong Kong
   Human Rights and Democracy Act that would put at risk Hong Kong's
   special economic status with the United States and impose sanctions on
   officials who are deemed to be "suppressing basic freedoms." The bill
   has bipartisan support and is expected to be brought up in the House
   for consideration as soon as this week. However it remains in committee
   in the Senate with no set timeline for legislative action.

   WATCH: Anita Powell's video report

.