Oiwan Lam

Red envelopes are a traditional gift in Chinese societies during the Lunar New Year, often given out by married couples to their single family members, but that tradition can be awkward for LGBT couples, who aren’t widely accepted. Now a Hong Kong group is using red envelopes for a different purpose.

Organizers of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have battled police throughout the weekend, saying officers used excessive force — including tear gas, pepper spray and batons — against peaceful demonstrations. But they also say demonstrations will continue.

Hong Kong will elect its chief executive for the first time in 2017, but Beijing announced this weekend that the city will have to choose from a short slate of pre-approved candidates. Many Hong Kongers say that violates the mainland’s pledges to allow democracy, and protesters are gearing up for action.

Uighur Muslims in the city of Karamay are banned from wearing headscarves, having beards or other religiously linked items while using public transportation for the duration of a local sports competition. But the ban may become permanent and stoke tensions between Uighurs and the Chinese government.Uighur Muslims in the city of Karamay are banned from wearing headscarves, having beards or other religiously linked items while using public transportation for the duration of a local sports competition. But the ban may become permanent and stoke tensions between Uighurs and the Chinese government.

When Facebook went out in Hong Kong, residents quickly blamed Beijing. Hong Kongers believe the mainland is behind a recent series of attacks targeting both pro-democracy websites and a hugely popular referendum that’s demanding more political freedom for the city.When Facebook went out in Hong Kong, residents quickly blamed Beijing. Hong Kongers believe the mainland is behind a recent series of attacks targeting both pro-democracy websites and a hugely popular referendum that’s demanding more political freedom for the city.