Whispers of traffic hum around us here at Sifang Bridge. What does Sifang Bridge mean? Sifang translates to “four square direction bridge”. This interchange bridge connects the 4th Ring Road and the G1 Beijing–Harbin Expressway. We are currently in the Chaoyang District.
Sifang Bridge marks the origin of the G1 Beijing–Harbin Expressway. The expressway runs eastwards to the 5th Ring Road. This origin point is Exit 0 at 0 km. If you are on the 4th Ring Road and heading north or south look for Exit 14. That will lead you to Sifang Bridge. Westwards from here takes you toward Huawei Bridge on the 3rd Ring Road.
Now I want to tell you about something else that happened here. In October 2022 a lone protester stood on this very bridge. This was just before the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party. The protester hung banners and burned tires. The smoke was meant to draw attention. He also used a loudspeaker.
The banners and slogans criticized Xi Jinping. They spoke against his cult of personality and dictatorship. Human rights violations and censorship were also mentioned. The protester questioned Xi Jinping’s reelection. He voiced opposition to the zero-COVID policy.
The protester shouted. He called for a strike at school and work. He demanded the removal of Xi Jinping. He said “We want to eat we want freedom we want to vote.” Security forces quickly arrested him.
The man’s name is believed to be Peng Lifa. Some call him Bridge Man or Banner Man. This is in reference to Tank Man. Photos of the protest spread rapidly online.
The Chinese internet heavily censored the event. Authorities removed photos and videos. They even arrested some people who reposted the images. Terms like “Sitong Bridge” and “brave man” were censored. Even the words “courage” “bridge” and “Beijing” were censored. Baidu Maps removed the location of Sifang Bridge from its online maps.
The BBC described Peng’s act as significant. It was “one of the most significant acts of Chinese protest seen.” Despite the censorship efforts posters showed solidarity with the protester. These appeared on university campuses worldwide.
The story of Sifang Bridge is a reminder. It is a reminder that even in the face of immense pressure individuals can take a stand. It shows the power of the human spirit. It echoes the desire for freedom and change. It shows the struggle for expression. As we move on from Sifang Bridge consider the weight of its history. Remember the brave actions that transpired here.