Beijing, China – The 35th anniversary of the deadly crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square was marked by heavy security and attempts to silence any commemoration of the event. Hong Kong also saw arrests and crackdowns on those trying to protest or remember the tragic incident.
In 1989, China deployed troops and police to crush the student-led demonstrations in Tiananmen Square, resulting in numerous fatalities. Since then, China has maintained strict censorship on any discussion of the event, with social media posts related to the anniversary quickly removed.
Despite the government’s attempts to erase the memory of Tiananmen, calls for justice and remembrance persist. The Tiananmen Mothers, a group composed of families of the victims, called for accountability and compensation for those affected by the crackdown. However, the Chinese government continues to block access to their website within China.
In Hong Kong, where memorials were previously held, authorities cracked down on any form of commemoration. Activists and residents were arrested or removed for attempting to mark the anniversary. The ongoing suppression of dissent in Hong Kong has led to growing concerns about the erosion of freedoms in the city.
Overseas, events commemorating the Tiananmen crackdown have gained momentum, with gatherings in Washington, D.C., and London. Despite challenges, those outside of China continue to speak out in remembrance of the victims and in support of democratic values.
In Taiwan, residents laid flowers and lit candles to honor the memory of those affected by the crackdown. The global solidarity in remembering Tiananmen reflects a continued fight for justice and accountability in the face of government repression. The legacy of Tiananmen continues to resonate worldwide, serving as a reminder of the importance of defending human rights and democracy.