As the world marks 36 years since the tragic events that unfolded in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, a solemn tribute is being paid to the brave individuals who lost their lives while advocating for democracy and human rights. On June 3, 2025, the US Department of State commemorates the courageous pro-democracy activists whose actions inspired a national movement in China.
In the spring of 1989, tens of thousands of students gathered in Beijing's largest public square to mourn the passing of a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader who had attempted to steer China toward a more open and democratic system. Their actions sparked a wave of protests across the country as hundreds of thousands of ordinary people took to the streets for weeks to exercise their freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.
The CCP responded with brutal force, sending the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to open fire on unarmed civilians gathered in Tiananmen Square and other parts of Beijing. The world watched in horror as the regime attempted to extinguish pro-democracy sentiments, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake.
Despite the Chinese government's efforts to censor the facts, the world will never forget the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for their fundamental freedoms. Today, we honor the memory of the victims, including the students who were killed as they tried to exercise their right to peaceful assembly, and those who continue to suffer persecution in their quest for accountability and justice.
The Secretary of State notes that the principles of freedom, democracy, and self-rule are not unique to America, but are fundamental human rights that transcend borders. "Their courage in the face of certain danger reminds us that these principles are not just American values, but universal aspirations that all people deserve," said Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State.
As we remember this pivotal moment in modern history, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values of democracy and human rights around the world. The US will continue to support those who are working tirelessly for freedom and justice, even in the face of adversity.
The US Department of State joins with people around the world in paying tribute to the brave pro-democracy activists whose memory we honor today.