Last month, as the 35th anniversary of the June Fourth 1989 Protests and Massacre was commemorated, I posed the question "Do people in mainland China forget it after 35 years?" on X (Twitter). It's disheartening that despite 139 views, the question went unanswered.
The forgetting of the June 4th, 1989 incident, particularly by those who may have benefited from its aftermath, is indeed a tragedy. The events of that day, when peaceful protests for democracy in Beijing's Tiananmen Square were violently suppressed, remain a stark reminder of the lengths to which authoritarian regimes will go to maintain control.
It is disappointing that some individuals, including those who may have gained opportunities like green cards due to subsequent political shifts, have seemingly chosen to overlook or forget the sacrifices made by their fellow citizens. Remembering such pivotal moments in history is crucial not only for honoring those who fought for freedom and democracy but also for understanding the ongoing struggles for human rights worldwide.
To ignore or forget these events is to risk repeating the mistakes of the past and to diminish the importance of standing up against oppression and injustice. It is a responsibility of all individuals, especially those who have benefited from democratic freedoms elsewhere, to condemn injustice and to advocate for the preservation of human rights everywhere.
The events of that day are crucial to understanding modern Chinese history, yet it seems people have forgotten. It's important to keep the memory alive, to ensure that the sacrifices and struggles of those who stood for democracy and freedom are not in vain. Their courage should inspire us to continue seeking truth and justice, even when it's difficult or unpopular. We owe it to them, and to future generations, to remember and learn from the past.
Welcome your opinions in English or Chinese. Thank you!
