Hong Kong Protesters Threaten to Occupy Government Buildings

Activists are showing their support with light and color.

ByABC News
October 1, 2014, 9:18 AM

— -- Protesters in Hong Kong vowed to ramp up their efforts, possibly including the occupation of government buildings, if the territory’s leader doesn’t resign by the end of Thursday, protest leaders told ABC News.

Student leaders of the pro-democracy protests say they’re willing to speak with government officials, but not Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying.

SLIDESHOW: HONG KONG PROTESTS DRAW THOUSANDS

A challenge for the movement will come Friday, when many of the protesters will be expected to return to work, with Hong Kong returning to its normal work mode.

Activism continues in the streets, with thousands gathering in the streets of Hong Kong amid holiday celebrations.

Wednesday marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. Hong Kong’s leader attended National Day celebrations, including a flag-raising ceremony. Protesters watched from behind police barricades, yelling at him to step down.

PHOTO: Hong Kong's Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, center, watches as military personnel march during a flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2014 in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong's Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, center, watches as military personnel march during a flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2014 in Hong Kong.

Volunteers are handing out prayer bracelets.

The protests are drawing attention overseas. In Sydney, Australia, well-wishers posted colorful notes in support of the activists on the Hong Kong government office.

PHOTO: A woman looks at colorful post-it notes that are stuck on the outside of the Hong Kong building in Sydney, Oct. 1, 2014, to show support for the pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.
A woman looks at colorful post-it notes that are stuck on the outside of the Hong Kong building in Sydney, Oct. 1, 2014, to show support for the pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong.