Dozens of overseas activists gathered in London to commemorate the second anniversary of a fatal fire in Urumqi, Xinjiang, which claimed the lives of at least 10 Uyghurs. The tragic incident, occurring during a COVID-19 lockdown, hindered rescue efforts and stirred nationwide protests.
The fire at a lockdown apartment in Urumqi sparked a spontaneous protest as young people in Shanghai and other cities held up blank sheets of paper to symbolize their desire to voice their discontent in a censored environment. This act of defiance against government restrictions and control resonated across China, leading to widespread demonstrations.
Following the protests, known as the “white paper protests,” the Chinese Communist Party swiftly lifted the stringent zero-COVID measures. However, the crackdown on dissent persisted, targeting many demonstrators who dared to challenge the status quo.
At a vigil in London organized by the China Deviants group, activists sang, lit candles, and displayed a replica sign reading “Urumqi Road.” Messages of solidarity from Chinese nationals unable to attend in person due to fear of reprisals emphasized the lack of freedom and expression in mainland China.
A young activist, recalling the events of the protests, highlighted the resurgence of dissent and potential future struggles in China’s uncertain economic landscape. Similar vigils were held in Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, and Tokyo, illustrating the global resonance of the Urumqi tragedy.
Activists also raised awareness about the harsh sentencing of democracy advocates in Hong Kong under the National Security Law. The interconnectedness of the pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong and mainland China underscored a shared desire to resist injustice and authoritarianism.
The aftermath of the Urumqi fire saw a wave of arrests and disappearances of protesters across China. The fear of reprisals and political persecution loomed large as individuals faced the harsh reality of challenging the government’s narrative and restrictions.
A former protester, reflecting on the events, recounted the fear and determination that fueled the demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of taking a stand against oppression despite the risks involved. The legacy of the “white paper protests” serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice in China.
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