Remembering Tiananmen: Overseas Commemorations Keep the Memory Alive

As China suppresses commemorations of the Tiananmen Square crackdown within its borders, overseas events have emerged as vital means of preserving the memories of that bloody day.

Decades after government troops opened fire on pro-democracy protesters in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, the event remains a taboo subject in mainland China. However, outside of the Chinese government's reach, commemorations have sprung up, providing a crucial lifeline for preserving the memories of the crackdown.

In Hong Kong, the annual vigil that once drew thousands to mourn the victims has been banned, and pro-democracy activists have been imprisoned. But as physical gatherings have become impossible, the internet has offered an alternative platform for remembrance. Social media posts and online discussions have kept the memory of Tiananmen alive despite the risks of censorship.

Overseas events have also played a significant role in preserving the memory. Talks, rallies, exhibitions, and plays have emerged in countries like the United States, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Taiwan, fostering hope and counteracting the efforts to erase the crackdown's legacy.

One such event is the Tiananmen Museum in New York, which opened in June 2022. It houses exhibits such as a blood-stained shirt and a tent used by student protesters, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the horrors of that day.

Overseas commemorations also allow the memories of Tiananmen to travel and endure, providing access for other people and future generations. They offer a platform for victims and their families to share their stories and for others to learn about the struggle for democracy in China.

However, adapting the memories to new places carries the risk of fragmentation or de-contextualization. To mitigate this, scholars emphasize the importance of maintaining historical accuracy and respecting the context in which the events occurred.

Overseas commemorative activities have the potential to inspire people facing their own challenges in the pursuit of democracy. Film and television dramas can be particularly powerful tools for fostering empathy and understanding across borders.

Theater productions about the crackdown have also garnered attention, with the recent play "May 35th" in London moving audiences to tears. Its director, Kim Pearce, believes that dramatic narratives can bring viewers into the story in an intimate way, deepening their connection to the events.

British theater-goer Sue Thomas found the play deeply moving, particularly as a parent. "It sort of made me think of it in a much more sort of heartfelt way," she said.

For Rowena He, a prominent scholar of the Tiananmen Square crackdown, the importance of overseas commemorations cannot be overstated. "If there's anything we can do, I hope that we would bring the younger generation to understand this," she said.

As the years pass, the memory of Tiananmen Square may fade in the minds of some, but overseas commemorations will continue to serve as vital reminders of the human cost of authoritarianism and the enduring power of the struggle for democracy.