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The Commemorative Gala Honoring China's Historic Victory

On September 4, 2025, China hosted a significant gala marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This event, held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, was a solemn yet celebratory occasion that honored the sacrifices of countless heroes while emphasizing the importance of fostering peace and understanding in today's world.

A Glimpse into the Past

The event unfolded with a solemn reminder of the struggles faced by the Chinese people during the dark years of conflict. A notable highlight was the emotional recount of the acts of bravery by the 82 soldiers from Liulaozhuang Village, who fought valiantly to protect their villagers against a vastly superior Japanese force. Their sacrifice transformed the village into a symbol of resistance, earning it the title of 'Heroic Liulaozhuang Village.' The story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the enduring spirit of those who fought for their homeland.

Themes of the Gala

The theme for the evening was “Remembering History, Honoring Fallen Heroes, Cherishing Peace, and Looking into the Future.” Over a span of 90 minutes, the gala showcased a variety of performances, including songs and dances that captured pivotal moments of resistance during the 14 years of struggle against Japanese aggression. The narrative highlighted not just the tragedies, but the heroic resolve that defined the Chinese people’s fight for sovereignty.

The Spirit of Resistance

The gala was a vibrant blend of artistic expressions that brought forth the spirit of resilience. Young directors and screenwriters born in the 1990s significantly contributed to the night’s program, allowing their generation to reflect on the sacrifices made by their predecessors.
More than half of the performers were young individuals in their early twenties, demonstrating a commitment to understanding and preserving the values of peace and resistance. They showcased a modern interpretation of the historical context, illustrating that the spirit of resistance is not a relic of the past but a living practice that needs to be adapted to contemporary values and challenges.

Celebrating Achievements

In addition to commemorating the sacrifices of the past, the gala also looked forward to China’s potential for future growth and development. Programs showcased the achievements that the country has made over the last 80 years, highlighting progress and innovation, and expressing a collective aspiration for continued advancement in the new era.
This reflective journey emphasized the necessity for the youth to carry forward the spirit of resilience as China embarks on its quest for modernization. The evening concluded on a hopeful note, with an invigorating call for the younger generation to channel their passions and skills toward contributing to a prosperous future for the nation.

Message of Peace

Amidst the remembrance, the gala underscored a critical message: commemorating history must never translate into nurturing hatred. Instead, it is about fostering peace, understanding, and a commitment to learning from the past. The desire to remember is rooted not in glorifying conflict but in cherishing peace, a sentiment derived from the sacrifices of those who fought for a better future.

Through such events, China not only honors its history but also reaffirms its dedication to ensuring a peaceful and collaborative future on the global stage. The V-Day gala stands as a poignant reminder that while conflict may shape the course of history, it is the pursuit of peace that will chart its future.