BEIJING, Dec 13 (Alliance News): The 2024 National Commemoration Ceremony for the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre, organized by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the State Council, took place in Nanjing, with prominent leaders and nearly 8,000 participants from across China gathering to honor those lost in the horrific event.
Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department, attended the ceremony, which was held at the Memorial Hall for the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders.
The solemn event began at 10 a.m., with the Chinese national anthem played, followed by the lowering of the national flag to half-mast. In a powerful expression of respect, participants wore white flowers on their chests as they stood in silent tribute to the victims.
The entire city of Nanjing participated in the commemoration, as air raid sirens wailed throughout the city, cars came to a stop, honking horns ceased, and pedestrians paused, reflecting on the profound significance of the moment.
The national silence symbolized the collective memory of the atrocities and the mourning of the over 300,000 victims who lost their lives during the 1937 Nanjing Massacre by Japanese invaders.
Li Shulei delivered an emotional speech during the ceremony. In his address, he stated, “Today, we are gathered to remember all those who perished in the Nanjing Massacre, the compatriots killed by Japanese invaders, the revolutionary martyrs, and national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the victory of the Chinese People’s War against Japanese aggression.
We also express our heartfelt appreciation for the martyrs of various countries who fought alongside the Chinese people.” Li also spoke of the desire for peace and development, emphasizing that the Chinese people’s commitment to continuing on the path of peace remains steadfast.
The commemoration of the Nanjing Massacre has become a national day of remembrance in China. On February 27, 2014, the Standing Committee of the 12th National People’s Congress passed a legislative decision to officially designate December 13 as the National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Nanjing Massacre.
This day is a time for reflection, education, and the honoring of the victims of one of the most harrowing chapters in modern Chinese history.
The National Day of Remembrance seeks not only to pay homage to the lives lost but also to reinforce the significance of peace and the importance of remembering the past to prevent such tragedies in the future.
