Hong Kong Protesters Gather Despite Beijing Warnings, Downpour

Tens of thousands of people, some carrying signs and many with open umbrellas -- a symbol of protest against Chinese tactics in Hong Kong even when it's not raining -- quietly poured into a central gathering place shortly after noon on August 18. By early evening, the crowd filled a five-kilometer stretch of major road in Hong Kong's business district as the event swelled beyond the area that had been approved for the rally. The Sunday gathering marks the 11th week of daily protests against Beijing's efforts to tighten its political and legal grip on the specially administered region.