Chinese President Xi Jinping joined top leaders at Tiananmen Square Tuesday morning for a solemn ceremony honoring the nation’s fallen heroes. Dressed in dark suits, officials laid flower baskets at the Monument to the People’s Heroes to mark Martyrs' Day—a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for China’s sovereignty and progress.
🗣️ 'We will always remember their fearless spirit,' President Xi said during the event, attended by CPC leaders and military representatives. The ceremony, held annually on September 30, precedes China’s National Day celebrations, bridging historical sacrifice with modern patriotism.
📜 Martyrs' Day was established in 2014 to recognize over 20 million heroes who died in revolutions and anti-colonial struggles since the 19th century. The Tiananmen Square monument features carvings depicting key moments in China’s journey to independence.
Youth groups and students also participated, reflecting the government’s push to connect younger generations with national history. 'It’s like a history lesson you can feel,' said one Beijing university attendee, snapping photos of the floral tributes.
As red flags fluttered in the autumn breeze, the event underscored China’s emphasis on unity and collective memory—a theme resonating strongly ahead of October 1’s nationwide festivities.
