“Go on strike at school and work. Remove dictator Xi Jinping!”
Those words once echoed near the Sitong Bridge. Today we are standing near the Liangshuihe Bridge. But I want to tell you the story of the Sitong Bridge, because it is important to know what happened there to understand China today.
In October 2022, just before a major political event, a lone protester made a daring move. He hung banners on the Sitong Bridge in Beijing. He also set tires on fire to draw attention. His act was a direct challenge to the government and its policies.
The banners displayed powerful messages. They criticized leader Xi Jinping and the strict COVID-19 policies. The protester also used a loudspeaker to shout slogans. He called for freedom and reform.
The response was swift. Security forces quickly arrested the protester. Photos and videos of the event spread online. However, Chinese internet censors worked hard to remove them. They also blocked searches for terms related to the protest.
The protester’s identity remains somewhat mysterious. Some believe he is Peng Lifa, a physics enthusiast. Regardless, his act resonated with many. It inspired solidarity protests at universities around the world. People displayed posters with similar slogans. Graffiti with protest messages also appeared in some Chinese cities.
The Sitong Bridge protest was a rare event. It happened at a time of tight government control. Protests against the government are not common in China. This act of defiance stood out. It was a significant moment of dissent.
The aftermath for the protester and his family has been difficult. Peng Lifa is still detained. His family is under close surveillance. They face restrictions on their movement and communication. Despite the risks, his actions have had an impact. Some believe the protest helped spark the “Blank Paper Movement.” This movement contributed to the end of the zero-COVID policy.
The story of the Sitong Bridge is a reminder. It shows the courage of individuals who dare to speak out. It also highlights the challenges of free expression in China. Though the Liangshuihe Bridge stands here peacefully, the story of Sitong Bridge echoes in our minds. Let us reflect on the importance of freedom and the power of individual action. The Liangshuihe Bridge may seem quiet today. But the story of Sitong Bridge reminds us that even silent stones can carry powerful messages.