Month: October 2024

This year, Lina Yeh was elected as the 47th president of the Northern California Chinese School Federation. Her son, Lin Li-hsiang, also assumed the role of president of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) in the San Francisco Bay Area. Together, they have taken on significant responsibilities within their respective organizations, supporting each other in various events. They often carpool from the East Bay to the South Bay for activities, leading their respective community groups at many key occasions.

The FASCA, organized by the Overseas Community Affairs Council, has recruited 70 students this year. Lin Li-hsiang, who previously served as vice president, was encouraged by his teammates from the “San Tai Zi” drum team to run for president. This year marks a pivotal moment for him as a senior preparing for college admissions. Given the numerous activities involved with the youth cultural ambassador program, Lina initially worried that taking on the presidency would be too much for him.

Ultimately, Lin Li-hsiang chose to run for the presidency and won by securing the highest number of votes in two rounds of elections. Reflecting on his journey, he admits that when he first joined FASCA, he was reluctant to participate, but his fondness for the organization grew over time. Each moment spent in activities has deeply touched him, as he engaged with teammates, sharing life experiences and emotions, and witnessing their growth.

The Northern California Chinese School Federation is one of the region’s key community organizations, connecting Chinese schools and sponsoring various events, from teacher training to student Chinese competitions. Lina had initially hesitated to run for president, concerned about balancing her role as the principal of the Bay Valley Chinese School and the additional responsibility of the presidency. However, after encouragement from community elders, she decided to take on the challenge.

Both mother and son transitioned from being initially reluctant to running for their positions to being elected this year. What started as concern over their responsibilities has transformed into cherished moments together. Given that the Federation and FASCA participate in many mutual events, meaning they often work together, the commute from the East Bay to the South Bay takes nearly an hour for Lina. Now with Lin Li-hsiang accompanying her, they enjoy each other’s company during the drive. Lina expressed gratitude for this chance, saying, “It’s a wonderful coincidence that this has become such an important time for our mother-son relationship. I’m very thankful.”

During the National Day flag-raising ceremony, Lina led the Northern California Chinese School Federation while Lin Li-hsiang spearheaded FASCA. At the teacher appreciation event hosted by the Federation, Lin Li-hsiang brought FASCA to support the occasion, with both of them shining in their respective roles.

Lina shared that their dual presidencies have not only strengthened their bond, but also allowed them to engage in meaningful work together. “I believe that when we look back on this period in our lives, it will be a very precious and beautiful memory,” she reflected.

As the countdown to the November 5th general election approaches the three-week mark, current U.S. Congressman Tom Suozzi of New York’s 3rd Congressional District held a rally in Bayside, where he outlined his core policies for re-election. The event drew notable figures, including Chinese-American Congressman Grace Meng, Korean-American City Councilmember Linda Lee, and former Long Island candidate Wei Hua Yan, who joined nearly a hundred members of the Chinese community in chanting their support for Suozzi.

During the rally, Suozzi addressed several key issues significant to the Asian community, emphasizing public safety and law enforcement. He pledged to combat crime and hate crimes targeting Asian individuals and highlighted his unique position as one of the few Democratic candidates endorsed by police unions. In education, he expressed his commitment to supporting specialized high schools, acknowledging the critical importance of education for the Asian community.

Additionally, Suozzi discussed reforming immigration policies, stressing the need for enhanced border security while supporting legal immigration. He also proposed economic measures aimed at reducing living costs, controlling inflation, and addressing taxation.

Confident in his re-election, Suozzi noted that while Long Island’s political landscape has trended Republican in recent years, he received substantial support in the special election held this past February. “I believe they will vote for me again, whether they are Democrats, Republicans, or independents, as they appreciate the policies I advocate. Everyone is tired of the endless partisan conflict,” he stated. He pointed out that his extensive experience and focus on issues important to the Asian community give him an edge over less experienced opponents.

Suozzi admitted to being very concerned about the Chinese Communist Party but emphasized that his criticisms are directed at the government, not the people. “I always cautiously criticize the Chinese Communist Party, never generalizing about the Chinese people. I am committed to protecting Asian Americans from discrimination, as I have witnessed such experiences affecting my father and family. That’s why I work so hard to safeguard the Asian community,” he explained.

He strongly condemned the Republican Party and former President Trump for their negative rhetoric and attitudes towards Asians, noting that such behavior has a profoundly negative impact on the community. Suozzi urged voters, regardless of party affiliation, to support his re-election as he represents a political style focused on practical problem-solving rather than partisan division.

In early October, the Nobel Prizes for Physics and Chemistry were awarded to scientists in Northern California for their groundbreaking work utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in research. This recognition raises an intriguing question: Does this signify that scientists who lack access to AI tools from major tech companies might struggle to compete in the future?

According to an Associated Press report, Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneer in AI, celebrated his receipt of the Nobel Prize in Physics on October 8 by driving to Google’s California headquarters in a rental car. Although Hinton no longer works at Google, his impromptu celebration marked a significant moment for AI, highlighting its ascent as a cornerstone of scientific achievement.

The following morning, on October 9, two employees from Google’s AI division were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their innovative work in predicting and designing novel proteins. Jeanette Wing, a professor of computer science at Columbia University, remarked, “This demonstrates the power of computer science and artificial intelligence.” When asked about the historic back-to-back awards for AI contributions, Hinton simply stated, “Neural networks are the future.”

Wing further emphasized, “Without immense computational power and vast amounts of data, these discoveries wouldn’t have been possible. Few companies possess such capability; Google is one of them, and Microsoft is another.” This raises concerns for scientists from less privileged backgrounds who may not have access to the same AI resources. Will they be at a significant disadvantage?

The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Demis Hassabis and John Jumper from Google’s London-based DeepMind lab, along with David Baker from the University of Washington, for their contributions to drug discovery. Google acquired DeepMind in 2014.

In an interview with the Associated Press, CEO Hassabis shared that his dream is to establish a research lab inspired by the “incredible legendary history” of Bell Labs.

However, Hinton expressed some reservations about the rapid advancement of AI. While at Google’s celebration, he voiced criticisms of AI giant OpenAI, stating, “OpenAI initially claimed its primary goal was to develop safe, human-level general AI. Over time, it has become evident that Sam Altman is more focused on profits than on safety, which I find unfortunate.”

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho has solicited the support and technical synergy of the global shipping community as Nigeria finalizes moves to implement the National Single Window (NSW) project.
Speaking as a participant at the ongoing World Ports Conference 2024 taking place in Hamburg-Germany, Dantsoho said the renewed vigour with which Nigeria is accelerating the implementation of National Single Window project which will in fundamental terms deepen port efficiencies by eliminating human interface that hitherto undermine In-Country trade facilitation efforts, requires intensified international technical support to meet and indeed exceed global expectations.
He said, “The tremendous policy support provided by Nigeria’s Minister for Marine & Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola propelled the Nigerian Ports Authority’s finalisation of the crucial phase of the Port Community System (PCS) which is the precursor to the NSW.”
Responding to the call by the President of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), Mr. Jens Meier’s call for Ports to actively collaborate on knowledge sharing with the maritime community to accelerate decarbonisation, Dantsoho said,”The NPA is fully aligned and we were deliberate at ensuring that our ongoing Port Modernization programme is guided by the imperatives of eco-friendliness.”

According to recent reports, New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s legal defense fund is nearly depleted, receiving minimal contributions lately. Following federal charges against him, not only has his re-election fundraising dramatically declined, but support for his legal fund has also dwindled significantly.

The New York Times has highlighted that, based on quarterly regulatory filings from the New York City Conflict of Interest Board, Adams has almost exhausted the $1.8 million he previously raised for legal defenses over the past year, as he navigates a federal investigation into his campaign fundraising activities.

Since the federal indictment on September 26, which included allegations of bribery, fraud, and unlawfully accepting foreign campaign donations, Adams has received only one contribution of $1,000 to his legal fund. Regulatory documents indicate that since July, the fund has raised approximately $92,000, a stark contrast to the amounts raised in prior periods. Notably, the fund was established in November 2023, at the onset of the federal investigation, when the FBI confiscated Adams’s cell phone. Additionally, the fund has returned over $137,000 in donations due to violations or donor requests for refunds.

When asked about concerns over the dwindling resources of his legal defense fund, Adams stated at a press conference that he is “not worried.” Adams’s advisor, Frank Carone, who manages fundraising efforts and the legal defense fund, noted that with the mayor having reached the campaign spending limits imposed by the city’s Board of Elections for his 2025 campaign, the team will focus on bolstering the legal defense fund in the coming months. “Now we will prioritize the legal defense fund. The good news is that we no longer need to worry about campaign fundraising; the mayor can concentrate on managing the city and engage in campaign activities when the time is right,” Carone said.

Legal defenses can be incredibly costly. For instance, former Mayor Bill de Blasio faced a federal investigation into his fundraising activities, which, despite not leading to charges, resulted in over $10 million in legal fees paid by taxpayers, alongside $300,000 in personal legal expenses he still owes. Similarly, former Governor Andrew Cuomo faced multiple sexual harassment investigations, leading to his resignation in 2021, and the state spent over $25 million on his defense.

Since the indictment, Adams’s legal defense fund has incurred over $240,000 in expenses, mainly for services rendered by a high-profile legal team led by WilmerHale, which includes Adams’s former chief advisor, Brendan McGuire.

On October 18, an engaging one-day event titled “Hello, Hohhot” attracted approximately 30 foreign participants from 11 countries, including Belarus, Ghana, the Philippines, the UK, and the US. Most attendees were involved in the education sector, including experts, teachers, and international students.

This event was launched by Hohhot, the capital city of Inner Mongolia, as a key initiative to showcase the region’s modern industrial development, technological innovations, ecological achievements, and intangible cultural heritage. Organizers aimed to highlight the city as an attractive place for living, working, studying, and exploring.

Guo Yu, Deputy Director of Hohhot’s Foreign Affairs Office, shared insights about the growing number of expatriates drawn to the city. “As Hohhot’s openness to the world continues to increase, more and more foreign individuals are coming here for education, work, and life. Through experiences like today’s visit, we hope to strengthen their commitment to stay in Hohhot and to encourage more international friends to come,” he commented, adding plans for similar future events.

Anthony John Edward, who has lived in China for eleven years and has been in Hohhot for three months teaching at a private high school, expressed his impressions: “Seeing yogurt and milk in the supermarket is one thing, but today I finally learned how it’s actually produced. This place really made an impression on me.” He contrasted Hohhot with other cities, stating, “Unlike the hustle and bustle of Beijing or the picturesque beauty of Wuxi, Hohhot is a very interesting city. Right now, I want to live here with my family indefinitely.”

Musaeva Angelina from Russia noted, “Today’s experience was very appealing, and we got to feel the rich diversity of Hohhot. However, it wasn’t a completely new experience for me, as I have lived here for two years and have seen many different sights and tasted delicious food.” A fluent Mandarin speaker and a graduate student at Inner Mongolia University, she added, “This city may be small, but it’s convenient. At first glance, it may not seem special, but it is home to many important people. I’ve grown fond of it.”

On October 17, 2024, the Kunlun Cultural Forum officially opened in Hotan, Xinjiang, bringing together renowned experts and scholars in the field of Kunlun cultural studies to delve into the rich tapestry of this heritage.

During the keynote address, Feng Shizuo, a member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and a researcher at the Archaeological Institute of the Chinese Academy of History, emphasized that discussing Kunlun culture should go beyond geographical concepts. “The essence of Kunlun culture is Chinese culture itself, rather than being confined to a specific region,” he stated. “It represents the culmination of the Chinese understanding of the world, intertwined with ancient concepts of time and space, knowledge systems, politics, and religion—essentially forming the roots of Chinese culture.”

Han Ziyong, a former president of the China Arts Research Institute and member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, highlighted that Kunlun culture embodies the beliefs, cognition, and spiritual expression of the early Chinese people. “The myths surrounding Kunlun, along with its cultural and jade traditions, are shared aspects of the various early Chinese communities, forming what we can call a ‘meta-narrative’. Today’s perspective shows that the depth of Kunlun culture is profound and warrants thorough exploration.”

So, where exactly is the legendary Kunlun? Zhao Zongfu, former vice president of the Chinese Folk Literature and Art Association and a leading academic at Qinghai Minzu University, pointed out, “Numerous mountain ranges across China have long been identified as part of the Kunlun range or its extensions. This notion was established by our ancestors a long time ago. However, the actual location of the Kunlun mountains has been a perpetual mystery sought by the ancients. For centuries, people have attempted to comprehend Kunlun based on what they could see, giving rise to terms like Xinjiang Hotan Kunlun, Gansu Qilian Kunlun, and Qinghai Xingxuhai Kunlun.”

“Overall, Kunlun culture belongs to the national culture and serves as a shared spiritual home for the Chinese nation. It can be seen as the point of collective memory for the Chinese people, a key element of our collective narrative, and a source of cultural nostalgia. The saying ‘Kunlun is everywhere in China’ even extends to ‘there is Kunlun overseas’,” Zhao Zongfu remarked.

This forum was co-hosted by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences’ Chinese Academy of History, the Hotan region’s administrative office, Hotan College in Xinjiang, and the Beijing Support Group for Hotan. The aim is to deeply explore the connotations of Kunlun culture and to inherit and promote the excellent traditional Chinese culture.

On October 12, at Fudan University, the inaugural National College Student Book Collection Story Competition concluded, featuring dramatic tales of Dunhuang’s Cave of Scriptures, the literary collection of Ming Dynasty scholar Wang Shizhen, and the preservation of ancient texts at Ningbo’s Tianyi Pavilion. Ten outstanding student teams competed in the finals.

Organized by the National Center for the Protection of Ancient Books, in collaboration with Fudan University’s library and several cultural research institutes, the event was described as a celebration of book collection culture. Participants shared their stories, not only demonstrating their passion for preserving literary heritage but also aiming to inspire a broader appreciation for outstanding elements of Chinese traditional culture. This initiative serves as an important practical exercise in promoting the concept of ancient book preservation throughout society.

Looking ahead, the National Center for the Protection of Ancient Books plans to continue hosting similar events, further advancing the transmission and development of book collection culture and injecting new life into the field of ancient book preservation.

The competition aims to enhance college students’ education in traditional Chinese culture while promoting nationwide reading and the transmission of book collection culture. Since its launch in March, the contest has attracted considerable attention and active participation from undergraduates and graduates across diverse disciplines in universities nationwide. The competition theme, “One Book, One World; One Leaf, One Story,” encouraged entrants to share narratives focused on the cultural significance of book collection. Following rounds of selection, the ten finalist teams captivated the audience with their compelling storytelling and emotional connections to their narratives.

Yang Wenyue, Mei Haoyu, Mai Dongmei, and Yang Yi from Wuhan University and Central China Normal University delved into the poignant history of the Dunhuang Caves with their story titled “In the Winds and Rains of Dunhuang: A Century of Cataloging Experience with the ‘Dunhuang Manuscripts’.”

Zhang Yajing from North China University of Science and Technology shared the preservation story of Ningbo’s ancient Tianyi Pavilion in her presentation, “The Light and Shadow of Ink Scrolls: The Legacy of Tianyi Pavilion.” Meanwhile, Mei Yuan and Gu Jinjia from Nanjing Jinling Institute of Technology explored the world of female book collector Fang Ju in their story, “The Eternal Resonance of Books: Inside the Book Collection of Jiangnan’s Fang Ju.”

Sun Yiming and Wei Yi from Shandong University presented “The Story of the Second Li in Zhangqiao: Book Collection, Heritage, and Modern Reflection,” highlighting the contributions of Li Kaixian from the Ming Dynasty and Li Tingqi from the Qing Dynasty to local literature and book collection.

Fudan University’s team of Wu Shixun, Xu Qing, and Li Yi shared the touching tale of the book-obsessed Ming Dynasty scholar Wang Shizhen in “Wishing to Be a Bookworm: The Story of Wang Shizhen’s Collection.” Additionally, Wang Siqi narrated the inspiring legacy of the Qu family’s five generations of ancient book preservation at Changshu’s Iron String and Bronze Sword Pavilion in her presentation “Harmony of Qins and Swords: The Legendary Collection of the Qu Family.”

A team from Chengdu University of Technology, Sichuan University, and Northwest University of Political Science and Law, including Zeng Yi, Hong Ruoying, and Weng Haoyi, told the story of “Preserving the Memories of Overseas Chinese Letters,” highlighting the bond between young Li Kaihan and overseas Chinese documentary heritage. Wang Yuxuan and Lü Zhuoyan from Hubei University of Engineering led the audience through the captivating journey of bamboo slips in their narrative “A Bamboo Slip’s Autobiography.”

Finally, Deng Haoxian from Northwest University presented “Stone Screen Returns: Chronicles of the Xiuchuan Library,” recounting the establishment, collection, disasters, and restoration efforts of the Xiuchuan Library in Guangdong Province, based on his observational notes. Zhao Yijie, Liu Shujun, and Lu Yunyang from Sichuan University shared the intricate story of “An Encounter Between the Scholarly Virtues of Xujun and Su Xin: The Book Blessings of Huang Pilie and the Dual Perfection of Song Ci.”

At the Gansu Provincial Museum, young visitors can choose their favorite plush “spicy hot pot” ingredients for a fun cooking experience, while at the Suzhou Museum, they can bundle adorable plush “hairy crabs” to take home, taking advantage of the autumn crab season.

During the National Day holiday, 95-year-old Liao Weiduo was taken aback by the familiar conversations typically heard outside hot pot shops: “A skewer of broccoli, a skewer of cabbage… Would you like your ingredients crispy? How spicy do you want it?” Making her way through the Gansu Provincial Museum, she was pleasantly surprised to find this playful vibe. With a variety of plush vegetables and meat skewers neatly arranged, Liao quickly received her own version of spicy hot pot. “This cultural creativity and interactive experience are just so much fun!” she shared her “treasures” on social media, quickly garnering many likes and comments.

According to the National Cultural Heritage Administration, during the 2024 National Day holiday, museums across the country welcomed 74.88 million visitors. Museums have become essential stops for many young travelers, whose must-have shopping lists now include creative cultural products, such as the Phoenix Crown refrigerator magnets from the National Museum of China, Suzhou Museum’s “Chubby Treasure Sword,” and the Gansu Provincial Museum’s “Green Horse.” What makes these museum souvenirs so irresistible to the youth?

Creative and Engaging Products Win Hearts

Many consumers share a common sentiment about the Gansu Provincial Museum’s merchandise: they find it to be “unique” and “engaging.” Some even travel specifically to the museum just to purchase the “Green Horse” and the spicy hot pot plush.

The “Green Horse” is inspired by the museum’s treasure, the “Bronze Galloping Horse,” while the hot pot toy reflects the local hot pot culture from Tianshui, Gansu. “These are rich in local character and represent something different from other cultural products,” Liao remarked.

Highlighting regional characteristics is also a design focus for the Gansu Provincial Museum’s creative products. Cui Youxin, head of the museum’s cultural creation center, told reporters, “Museums serve as cultural hubs for their regions, showcasing not only artifacts but also local cultural nuances. Our ‘cultural specialties’ series features local delicacies, hoping visitors will recognize Gansu’s rich offerings when they see these adorable products.”

In addition to regional charm, the playful designs are also a significant draw for consumers. Posts about the museum’s “Green Horse” and the Suzhou Museum’s “Chubby Treasure Sword” frequently mention terms like “ugly-cute” and “abstract.” In an era where sleek, polished designs are the norm, why do these quirky styles resonate more with young audiences?

Bu Xiting, a research fellow at the Communication University of China, believes that this “cute” design approach bridges the gap between cultural heritage and youth. He emphasizes that in order for historical artifacts and their cultural narratives to resonate with young people, they must be made accessible and relatable. “Designs for cultural products should respect history while translating traditional culture in a contemporary way that incorporates the language of the youth,” he added.

“Traveling to a city just for a museum” is becoming a popular choice among young vacationers. The National Cultural Heritage Administration reported that last year alone, museums welcomed 1.29 billion visitors, reaching a historic high. This year during the National Day holiday, tickets to several popular museums sold out quickly on their first day of availability.

“As more young people step into museums, creative cultural products serve as a vivid bridge between audiences and museums. We hope that through these products, everyone can see that museums can be youthful, lively, and approachable,” Cui remarked.

“Creative products that engage and entertain are more appealing and encourage me to learn about the stories behind artifacts,” said Liao Weiduo. After enjoying the “Bronze Galloping Horse” and purchasing her plush “Green Horse,” she made a special trip to the artifact’s origin in Wuwei. “Regardless of the form, anything that makes cultural heritage popular among youth is a positive thing. Content that resonates with us is key.”

Collecting Cultural Creations as a Hobby

Unlike Liao’s spontaneous purchasing style, many young people are turning the collection of museum cultural products into a habitual hobby, forming their own communities. Wang Nanxing, a 95-born collector, has amassed a substantial collection in just over a year.

“I have collected hundreds of items, most being refrigerator magnets and decorative pieces,” Wang shared, explaining that collectors like him prioritize the craftsmanship and historical accuracy of these products. “I love visiting museums; seeing artifacts evokes a deep sense of history. Just having them on display gives a profound sense of connection to the past.”

Wang admires the heavy sense of history that artifacts carry and hopes to see the same quality in cultural creations. “While these items can’t fully replicate the actual artifacts, if they feature fine detail, like copper oxidation or texture, they can resonate strongly with history.” He has even crafted a display cabinet at home with lights to recreate a museum-like exhibition. “I aim to replicate the presentation of artifacts as closely as possible,” he laughed. “I can’t take home the real items, but having these mini replicas brings me a lot of joy.”

Wang’s passion has led him to make numerous like-minded friends. When new cultural product news arises in their chat group, they enthusiastically discuss every detail, from the quality of a Phoenix Crown refrigerator magnet to the size of a bronze vessel decoration. Museums continually innovate, balancing different interests in craftsmanship and texture, enabling cultural products to connect with diverse young audiences.

Wang believes whether it’s the lively plush toys from Gansu or the delicate refrigerator magnets from the National Museum, they all represent an “art form” — a gateway to museums. “As long as these products attract attention and make people curious about cultural artifacts, they are successful.”

Among the enthusiasts is Song Nuo from Shanghai, whose collection spans from the Neolithic period to the late Qing dynasty, featuring iconic artifacts from various dynasties. She has arranged her fridge magnets on a board according to dynasty and named it “10,000 Years of China.” It gained significant popularity on social media, receiving nearly 100,000 likes, with comments labeling it “the Ultimate Fridge Magnet Collection.”

To assemble such a display takes considerable investment, even for magnets, but Song considers it “a spiritual enjoyment.” “Cultural creations serve as a means to popularize artifacts, allowing museums to generate revenue for improving exhibition facilities and hosting special events, benefiting us museum enthusiasts as well,” she explained.

The Social Aspect Fuels Cultural Products’ Popularity

Examining the recent success of various cultural products, it’s clear that many possess a “social element” amplified by social media. This “flow” comes from both museum marketing and grassroots sharing among young people.

Cui Youxin noted that the Gansu Provincial Museum has focused on cultural product design for over a decade, initially emphasizing cultural attributes before integrating practicality and fun to effectively engage young audiences.

Now, merely possessing the aforementioned attributes is insufficient. “Only products with social appeal can break through and gain traction,” Cui added. Young consumers who find something interesting often share it online, while museums actively build a presence on multiple platforms to bridge the gap between themselves and younger visitors, leading to enhanced marketing success.

Complementing the social element is the experiential engagement young people experience when purchasing cultural products, fostering history and cultural discussions.

At the Gansu Provincial Museum, visitors can select their favorite plush “spicy hot pot” items for a cooking experience; at the Suzhou Museum, they bundle plush “hairy crabs” to take home. The appealing designs and meticulously crafted purchasing rituals significantly contribute to their popularity.

Bu Xiting explains that this element of participation offers consumers a deeper experience and emotional value. “Purchasing scenarios with stories, plotlines, and rituals stimulate richer emotional connections, making cultural memories easier and creating a sense of shared experience,” he noted. This, in turn, enhances the vibrant perception of cultural products, making them more shareable and impactful.

For traditional cultural product enthusiasts, the social aspect’s influence is equally widespread. Items like the Emperor Dowager Cixi’s Crown refrigerator magnets and magical ceiling icons have become sought-after treasures on social platforms, often creating a buzz among collectors.

Song Nuo explained that her popular “10,000 Years of China” fridge magnet display has also sparked discussions and interactions around related topics. Several friends have reached out, saying since they started collecting cultural products, they’ve enjoyed new experiences each day.

Continuously evolving cultural products, whether quirky or refined, maintain a balance of innovation and tradition. By incorporating cultural symbols and language that resonate with young people, they capture attention and find their way into their shopping carts and hearts. “Behind this is the fertile ground of our culture, which steadily nourishes the innovative growth of cultural creativity and tourism industries, pushing them out of museums and into homes,” Bu concluded.

(Note: The name “Song Nuo” is a pseudonym as per the interviewee’s request.)

**Interview with a Historical Perspective: Xi Jinping’s Visit to Fujian and Anhui**

Recently, President Xi Jinping traveled to Fujian and Anhui for an inspection tour, during which he visited the Gu Wenchang Memorial Hall. This visit came shortly after the 75th anniversary celebrations of the People’s Republic of China and shared a common value focus with the recent presentation of national medals and honors.

Whether it’s Gu Wenchang’s unwavering commitment to “not be buried by the sandstorms but instead let them bury me,” or the brave deeds of combat heroes like Huang Zongde, “People’s Craftsman” Xu Zhenchao, cave doctor Lu Shengmei, and boundary defender Baiyika Kairidibek, their lives epitomize a resolute dedication to their missions. No matter the difficulties or the passage of time, they face hardships with fervor and resolve.

These individuals represent heroic ideals and serve as pioneers for our republic, offering a shining example of resilience for a nation rich in history and struggle. Despite diverse backgrounds in profession, age, experience, and region, their stories resonate with the shared values of loyalty, dedication, and simplicity. Patriotism is woven into their very essence; these heroes have indelibly inscribed a sense of national purpose within themselves.

In the context of a new era and new journeys, why does society consistently elevate these heroes to the forefront, honoring them with the highest accolades and reverently learning from their examples? As President Xi articulated during the awards ceremony, “Using our heroic models as a compass, we should unite and move forward together, gathering strength for our great national endeavor.”

Enduring the intertwined legacy of China’s glory and suffering, the nation understands the perils of disunity and the futility of drifting aimlessly. “The energy accumulated by the Chinese nation over the years is ready to be unleashed to realize the great Chinese dream.” This momentum surges forth from history, compelling us to rally around great objectives and draw strength from our shared spirit.

As we reflect on 75 years, we remember the dreams of 13 young idealists who knocked on the door of 106 Wangzhilu, Shanghai (now 76 Xingye Road), signaling the dawn of a new era. We recall inquiries from cave dwellings, the treacherous journey of examination, the dawn of our newborn republic, and the historic achievements made in recent times. The footprints of countless dedicated individuals and heroes have left a resounding echo in history.

Their spirits enhance our values, shining brighter as time passes. They embody an age-old passionate commitment to the nation and the soul of the people, grounding our civilization, which has thrived for over 5,000 years. Their perseverance through struggle creates a rich spiritual legacy on the land, contributing to our shared cultural heritage.

This is the continuity of our bloodline, this is the essence of our spirit. In profound silence, heroes shape the world; through their experiences, they inspire generations.

Consider the impact on a young student who, years after hearing the story of Jiao Yulu in a middle school classroom, writes with deep emotion, “In evening snow and morning frost, may the spirit of the hero never fade.” Jiao Yulu’s short time in office still left behind an invaluable legacy, with the phrase “born on the sand dunes, buried on the sand dunes” inspiring countless individuals to continue their noble quests.

Gu Wenchang’s example is similarly inspirational. During his time in Fujian, President Xi noted a poignant detail: even after years, the youth of Dongshan still honor Gu Wenchang during rituals before paying respect to their ancestors. This deeply moved Xi, who urged everyone to embody his spirit, stating that a leader’s role is to benefit the community. His reflections continued in the “Zhejiang New Phrase,” where he integrated Gu Wenchang’s legacy into a broader dialogue on governance.

“All great endeavors advance through continuous effort.” Today, China finds itself at a critical juncture, embarking on a uniquely modern path toward national rejuvenation. While we are closer to achieving these dreams than ever, the challenges grow more complex and perilous. Thus, we must ask, what will drive us forward?

The path is rugged and multifaceted. “Achieving our goals requires heroes and the spirit of heroism.” President Xi often uses mountain climbing as a metaphor for our journey. He recently quoted a couplet, “Walk the righteous path, but make sure to strive; understanding is not far, but reaching the peak demands effort.” With over 1.4 billion people striving for modernization, the task is monumental yet daunting. Every step taken in solidarity embodies the spirit of our heroes and the collective force of the people.

Each era has its mission. In the aftermath of wars, when every grain of soil bore the weight of sacrifice and ambition, we entered a transformative era of rebuilding. Through toil and resilience, heroes emerged from humble beginnings, marking the journey with their indelible contributions.

Figures like Gu Wenchang, Jiao Yulu, Liao Junbo, and Yang Shanzu, all exemplifying ordinary yet extraordinary heroism, tell stories that resonate in their humility. Their seemingly simple tales ripple with grandeur; they may be farmers rolling up their trousers or devoted tree planters in the desert, or laborers in factories, military personnel, and researchers. These everyday roles can lead to remarkable lives and achievements.

Examining these narratives deepens our appreciation for Xi Jinping’s statement at the Gu Wenchang Memorial, emphasizing, “He represents the countless exemplary leaders of the Communist Party of China. By learning from his story, we not only aspire to the summit but also to imitate his virtuous deeds, aiming to benefit the people in every mandate.”

The significance of heroes in our times becomes clearer through these reflections. They form a collective legacy, their journey summing to historic pathways. Whether they shine in grand actions or quietly push through trials, they embody unity and brilliance. Figures such as Zhang Fuqing, a wartime hero who transitioned to civilian life and concealed his achievements for over 60 years, are emblematic of these quiet strengths.

The spiritual lineage of the Communist Party recognizes both remarkable heroes and the broader populace embodying resilience. From the old spirit of Tibet, which includes figures like Kong Fansen, to the efforts in poverty alleviation led by Zhang Guimei and Mao Xianglin, the spirit of heroism also shines through everyday sacrifices amidst hardship.

In the recent fight against COVID-19, figures like Zhong Nanshan and Zhang Boli, alongside countless healthcare workers and volunteers, embody the determination of ordinary people rising to extraordinary challenges. The list of those who have contributed is endless, as pointed out by President Xi: “The ongoing progress of the Chinese nation in the face of adversity is not because of saviors; rather, it’s the ordinary citizens who step up and bravely move forward.”

Reflecting on “The Hidden Contributions and Visible Achievements,” echoing Xi’s principles of governance, we see how Gu Wenchang led his county in vital projects that benefited generations. Notably, his governance model—“achievements need not be credited to oneself but ensure a legacy for all” is precisely what our contemporary narratives call for.

Xi has reminded us to balance immediate needs with long-term goals: “We must focus on current challenges while also planning for the future, handling foundational projects that yield lasting benefits.” Pursuing the welfare of the people above personal accolades leads to historical responses that store equal regard: “These ‘hidden contributions’ represent the greatest ‘visible achievements’.”

In this epoch, those who honor and inscribe the contributions of heroes in the hearts and minds of the people will be documented in our history. The current era honors the legacy of martyrs, establishing days of remembrance for them and cultivating a deep ethos of reverence and acknowledgment throughout society. Indeed, the 20th National Congress of the CPC emphasized honoring heroes and encouraging society to celebrate sacrifice, demonstrating our cultural confidence and civilizational renaissance.

As we journey through the annals of history, we reflect on the contributions of those who fought for the Chinese nation and its people—an overwhelming testament to an awe-inspiring narrative.

In conjunction with the Gu Wenchang Memorial, President Xi’s itinerary included a visit to the Hefei Binhu Science City, showcasing China’s recent strides in significant technological innovation. It reflects a leap in capabilities and a deep veneration for our scientists who dedicate themselves to the nation’s progress amid achieving new frontiers.

As time marches on, the Gu Wenchang Memorial buzzes with life, while the Central Party School reverberates with the legacies of Jiao Yulu and Gu Wenchang across the nation’s pivotal red revolutionary sites welcoming new dawns. Millions labor relentlessly on fertile land, and the spirit of these heroes is interwoven with our collective consciousness. Their character, virtue, and resolve resonate throughout society, become the prevailing ethos, and manifest as eternal vitalities in our shared quests.