More than 50 young people from Hong Kong, Macao and the Mainland visited the Memorial Hall with heavy hearts this morning. This is the first time for most of them to visit Nanjing and learn about the history of the Nanjing Massacre. Today, they received a history lesson about the Nanjing Massacre at the Memorial Hall. “On this trip, I learned more about the motherland’s history and received a patriotism lesson,” said Liu Haoran from Hong Kong.

These young people came to Nanjing for the “Study Tour Camp for Hong Kong, Macao and Mainland Young People”. The camp, organized by China Education Association for International Exchange, aims to assist young people from Hong Kong, Macao and the Mainland in gaining a better understanding of the development, history and culture of the motherland.

Keep the memory of the Nanjing Massacre alive

 “History has a power that calls on and inspires Hong Kong and Macao compatriots, particularly the young generation, to participate in the process of national development and progress as well as national rejuvenation,” said Chen Jiacheng, from Hong Kong, after ringing the peace bell. Chen grew up in Hong Kong and is now a postgraduate student at Jinan University. She and her pals travels the length and breadth of the motherland to enjoy the marvelous scenery and learn about history and culture.

Afterwards, the young people visited the historical facts exhibition to learn more about the Nanjing Massacre. “Hong Kong and Macao compatriots are of the same blood with the Mainland people. I was deeply touched when I learned about the deeds of the martyrs fighting the invading foreign enemies in the war years,” said Huang Shihao from Hong Kong.

Wang Tianyu from Nanjing University recited an excerpt from The Diaries of John Rabe in front of the Rabe statue. “I hope that young people across the country have knowledge of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance and have a stronger sense of identity with the motherland,” said Wang Tianyu. 

Sow the seeds of exploring history in the mind  

A tree, no matter how tall it is, has roots. We have a sense of belonging if we know where the roots are. Seedlings can grow into pillars only with a good foundation.

After the visit, participants walked into the Peace Park for a labor education class. In the rose garden, the participants shoveled the soil and watered Sindberg yellow roses as a way to emulate the spirit of international friends and to be responsible young people in the new era.

Huang Chunya, from Hong Kong, is currently studying at Shandong University. “As we plant Sindberg yellow roses, we also plant a seed to trace the history of the motherland. In the new era, young people in Hong Kong and Macao should shoulder the responsibilities of the times and contribute to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” said Huang Chunya.

Patriotism is upheld throughout the generations  

When young people in Hong Kong and Macao look to the vast motherland, they see a larger stage for their lives. “Since I came to Nanjing on a study tour, I have become deeply attracted to the city,” said Liu Ziying from Hong Kong.

Liu Ziying, who grew up in Hong Kong, aspired to be a teacher since she was a child. After graduating from high school, she came to the mainland, and is currently studying modern and contemporary Chinese literature at Jinan University. “After graduation, I want to return to Hong Kong and serve as a teacher to educate more young people in Hong Kong about the history of the motherland.”

Since its establishment, the Memorial Hall has received many Hong Kong and Macao compatriots every year. They learn about and reminisce about the history of the arduous War of Resistance, and uphold patriotism among Hong Kong and Macao compatriots.