A Beautiful China – Sixteen – Our Strength: A Message to Citizens
Xu Zhiyong, translated by Elizabeth Lindley, Joshua Rosenzweig, and Leo Timm, October 30, 2024
Note From the Editor
Born in 1973, Dr. Xu Zhiyong (许志永) is a legal scholar, pioneer of China’s rights defense movement, and a founder of the New Citizens Movement. On April 10, 2023, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison on charges of “subverting state power.” Before this, he had served a separate prison term from 2013 to 2017 for his Citizens Movement activities during Xi Jinping’s first wave of crackdowns on civil society after coming to power in late 2012. Between the two prison stints from 2017 to the end of 2019, Dr. Xu wrote A Beautiful China (《美好中国》), a collection of 24 essays. It is a review of his journey and that of his generation’s struggle for a better China in what often appeared to be a hopeful era of rapid economic development and political awakening; it is also a vision for a China free of the totalitarian yoke. Dr. Xu Zhiyong’s imprisonment is a textbook example of how the paranoid Communist leadership deploys its rubber-stamp judiciary to imprison China’s brightest and bravest. Dr. Xu has since early this year been sent to Lunan Prison (鲁南监狱) in Shandong province to serve the remaining 10 years of his sentence – if the communist regime in China will last that long. Late last year, from the detention center in Linyi, Shandong, Dr. Xu wrote to China Change via his lawyers to express his wish that A Beautiful China be translated and published on this website. Honoring Dr. Xu’s work and his sacrifices for the sake of his country, today we begin serializing a translation of his 24 essays.
Yaxue Cao
February 12, 2024
Sixteen
Our Strength – A Message to Citizens
Faith
In a society of subjects accustomed to submission, the first citizens to stand up must have strength. This strength will lead China to bid farewell to autocracy and embrace the rebirth of civilization. This strength is neither violence nor money, but hearts and minds — people’s genuine admiration and support.
This strength is born of faith, service, responsibility, and letting go of selfish interests.
These citizens have faith.
Our faith is in freedom — the maximum freedom for every individual, which is the ultimate purpose of the state and society. Civilization progresses with less coercion and more freedom. In this era, we pursue the universal rights of human civilization. They are written in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as in China’s current constitution. We defend our own universal freedoms as members of the human race, and we defend others’ freedoms too — that of every Chinese national.
We believe in justice. A civilized society is not a savage jungle. The differences between people are not about the differences in status created by power or hierarchy, but about different roles and divisions of labor. Everyone is equal. The powerful are restrained, the weak are protected, and each person fulfills their duties and contributes their abilities. Together, these colorful, free individuals create a beautiful mosaic in the earthly life.
We believe in love. There are no devils. Evil exists as a result of ignorance. Once we understand love — the boundless energy that comes from heaven — it becomes infinite. Love for everyone, for family and friends, for strangers, even for enemies. Love for nature and all living things in the endless cycle of life.
What enables us to move forward with integrity under the shadow of authoritarianism? What empowers us to lead the path to democracy and freedom? What allows us to reshape national character and revive an ancient civilization? Love. The inner light in our hearts illuminates heaven, earth, and humankind.
Love is our most powerful energy. Awakening the conscience of millions of compatriots is our greatest strategy. Ending totalitarianism is a movement of bringing the conscience from sleep. Whether poor or powerful, every person has an indestructible conscience. We gather the flames of conscience to light the path for our nation’s future.
We believe in a beautiful China. The country has for too long been reduced to the private interests of a single family or party. Politics has long been viewed as a relentless struggle for power. Autocracy has lasted too long, and disappointment has accumulated so deeply that people no longer believe in beauty — what a tragic state for a nation to be in! We are different. We do not strive for power or personal gain. We strive for the freedom, justice, and happiness of our fellow citizens. For a beautiful China. For the rebirth of Chinese civilization.
This is “the greatest transformation in 3,000 years.” We are not only witnesses but also participants in this transformation. We will forever bid farewell to the politics of barbaric regimes who rule by the gun, we will return the country to its rightful owners — the people. For a beautiful politics, for a beautiful China. On the foundation of morality and conscience, we will rebuild our nation and society. This is heaven’s mandate for our generation of Chinese.
Ahead of China lies a bright and beautiful future — a new civilization of democracy, rule of law, freedom, justice, and love. Never again will there be the bloody cycles of dynastic changes and chaotic upheavals. For it is we, the citizens, who drive the progress of history.
Washington, Jefferson, and Lincoln are the monumental figures of American civilization. In the same way, the rebirth of Chinese civilization will have its own great monuments — symbols of a new culture that will forever inspire future generations. We aspire to be those monuments. With the wisdom, freedom, passion, and lives granted to us by heaven, we will lay the foundations of a bright and prosperous path for this ancient nation.
We are citizens. There is only one path to a bright future: the growth and strengthening of the civic community to lead the direction of change. War, division, turmoil, and the return of autocracy are not an option. We will surely win this battle, and our strength will grow through faith, service, responsibility, and letting go of selfishness.
Service
True idealists are also realists. They look up at the stars while keeping their feet firmly on the ground, serving society.
Environmental pollution, judicial injustice, forced evictions, imprisonment for speech, floods, earthquakes… The world always has its share of problems, suffering, and misfortune.
We cast our eyes downward, genuinely caring for the weak, helping those in need. Politics is found in everyday life. In modern society, everything happens in the light of day. Our strength lies not in how cunning we are, but in how much we have done and how many people we have helped. Only by helping many, many people can we root ourselves in society, gain broad support, and have the strength to drive social progress.
Politics is not empty talk, nor is it opposition for the sake of opposition. Advocates of democracy cannot remain detached from society. Politics is public service, a noble pursuit for the public good. The opportunity to serve is right beside us — if we sincerely discover it and devote ourselves wholeheartedly.
If citizens’ rights defense activities end up being a help to the regime’s stability maintenance, so be it. As long as change moves towards a beautiful China of freedom, justice, and love, we are willing. We are builders.
Should we wait until democracy arrives to build a civil society? That would certainly be easier, but also weaker. What can we do today? Just wait? Russia’s transition teaches us that without a strong civil society, autocracy can return. We can’t wait for democracy to come to us — now is the time to build civil society. Though difficult, it is also more powerful.
We have been working hard for many years. We fought to correct wrongful convictions. We opposed the demolition of schools for migrant workers’ children. We sent clothes to impoverished children in the Tibetan region of Qinghai. We provided blankets for petitioners sleeping on the streets in the cold winter. We tried to secure compensation for children harmed by tainted milk powder. We advocated for the rights of millions of left-behind children to study and take exams where their parents lived and worked. It has been a long and challenging road.
All these efforts will not be in vain. We help the poor and weak, not for any return, but out of gratitude — because it is what we should do. We pursue justice, until one day we become symbols of it. When we face hardship, strangers will rally to support us. People will support us not for any return, but for the shared vision of a beautiful China.
There is always space for action. The key is what we do and how we do it. We criticize the government, but we are also constructive. To be a citizen in the true sense is an act of resistance; the growth of independent strength erodes autocracy. While bold actions have their value, not everyone needs to be at the frontlines. More people, more often, should focus on doing small things, growing strength through action.
Citizens must strive to be good people. Starting now, become a volunteer representative in your own community and city. Join your neighborhood’s WeChat or QQ groups, pay attention to the needs and problems of your community, and use your wisdom and efforts to help others. Become a community public service star. When tens of thousands of citizens do this, democracy will have real strength.
Take Responsibility
To bear the burden for faith is a choice we willingly make. When great responsibilities are placed upon us by destiny, hardship and trials do not weaken us — they strengthen us.
Social progress always requires people to bear the cost. It is through suffering that glory is revealed. Certain sufferings are inevitable and we don’t shun them. It is unrealistic to imagine that one can escape having to shoulder responsibility in a social movement and still have the strength to lead. It is equally unrealistic to imagine a beautiful China without enduring trials and tribulations.
Freedom without constraints is superficial. Happiness without suffering is shallow. Political opposition requires deep strength. Being imprisoned does not equate to failure. Nelson Mandela’s 27 years in prison built an unshakeable moral force. Suffering for the hope of a nation is an honor.
However, we do not seek meaningless sacrifice, but we are not afraid of losing our freedom. Should we be imprisoned, it is not due to our recklessness; rather, we recognize that there are some roads that simply must be walked, be they muddy or difficult. No path is without obstacles.
Many of our predecessors have taken much upon themselves.They spent decades of their lives in captivity. Others, like Tan Sitong (谭嗣同) and Lin Zhao (林昭), gave their lives. Over the course of a century, countless patriots have risen from among the ranks of the Chinese people for what they believed.
Today, no matter how moderate and rational we are, standing up as citizens in a society of submissive subjects is inherently dangerous. Pursuing freedom, justice, and love, and taking seriously the identity, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship, may result in one’s being “invited for tea,” being harassed, unlawfully restricted, fired, or even beaten or imprisoned.
But someone must step forward and lead the way. This nation needs a true backbone. The body may die, but the spirit endures, radiating a moral integrity that shines like the sun or moon. Countless sages have shed their blood for this cause. How can the suffering we endure today be compared with their sacrifice?
Facing brutality, we do not fight back or respond in kind; we peacefully endure suffering knowing it’s a given. Facing prison, we never surrender, yet we calmly accept the suffering that comes with losing our freedom because that’s how we conduct ourselves. Facing harassment and threats, or being fired or stripped of our practicing licenses, for our beliefs and words, we accept it with fortitude. Even being stopped from picking up trash in the park, or fasting for a day, is part of our being strong. By shouldering this duty, we purify our souls and awaken the public.
Be a person of principle: humble in spirit but firm in conscience. Be a person of integrity, ready to shoulder responsibility for your beliefs, with moderation and resolve.
Letting Go of Our Own Selves
Letting go of our own selves is a form of self-cultivation. Let go of the ego. Success is not about how many people you have surpassed, but about how many people you have helped. When you help others succeed, you succeed as well. Lower yourself, be humble like a valley, and you can gather the strength of many rivers. When righteous individuals let go of their egos and work together, democracy and freedom are not far away.
In the dark night, we, a group of individualistic people, seek the light. We are courageous and persistent, but also stubborn. In gatherings, some talk endlessly, allowing no opening for others, acting without regard for the group. If someone dares voice disagreement, they make accusations of conspiracies or escalate to infighting. This leads to factions and undermines the entire effort.
We must follow the rules. In discussions and decision-making, regardless of qualifications, everyone must be aware of the rules. Citizens’ meetings should have equal seating, with equal speaking rights. Disagreements are fine; we can create rules together, respect them, discuss issues openly, vote democratically, and divide the work. What problem cannot be solved this way? How can it lead to factional infighting?
We must have broad minds. Be strict with yourself but go easy on others. There will often be disagreements on how to assess situations and approaches to action. But after the debate, don’t hold grudges. Listen humbly, reflect on yourself, and grow from the experience.
We shouldn’t expect too much from the public in terms of its democratic qualities. The silent majority will always remain as it is. Support different groups in defending their interests without being too critical of their ideology, motives, or slogans. The masses, stepping forward for their interests or out of simple anger, are the driving force of any social movement.
Whether pursuing reform or revolution, whether inside or outside the system, as long as we share the pursuit of democracy and constitutionalism, it is not a problem for us to walk different paths. We should cooperate and not tear each other down. Some people are destined to walk with you for only part of the journey, but they are still fellow travelers. Sometimes, you don’t need to ask where they come from or where they’re going.
We must always keep the bigger picture in mind. Some are fighting over the fruit before the apple tree has even bloomed, imagining that this is the meaning of politics. Such thinking is overly simplistic and deeply misguided. We will spare no effort in cultivating a bountiful harvest to offer this nation. When we leave, we want to leave behind a beautiful China. That is glory enough.
We have no right to sacrifice others, but we have the courage to sacrifice ourselves. Ultimately, this entails letting go of fame, status, and prejudice. We pursue democracy and constitutionalism not for mastery of the land or to feed an insatiable greed, but for a dream — a beautiful China of freedom, justice, and love. For the progress of human civilization. For the meaning of life.
Citizenship
Cliques have always existed. Yet, these small groups are a far cry from the citizen community which leads a democratic movement. No matter how numerous they may be, without mutual identity, core values, and democratic principles as a foundational consensus, they remain scattered like grains of sand.
Some say that everyone should simply pursue their individual path, ‘do their own thing.’ I wonder if this is indeed a form of dodging.
At times, in certain situations, acting independently may be appropriate — decentralized actions and autonomous endeavors have their places, even just for the sake of temporarily avoiding danger. However, if, deep down, we make distinctions between you as a citizen and me as a democrat, you as a reformist and me as a revolutionary, you within the system and I outside it – drawing lines for an inexplicable sense of superiority – this is misguided.
When brothers climb a mountain, each exerts effort in his own way. When values diverge sharply, such as between violence and non-violence, and collaboration becomes untenable, striving separately would seem to make sense. But more often than not, we are not merely climbing mountains; we are fighting tigers. When our values align, yet a self-centered mentality leads to rejecting teamwork, it is truly disheartening.
The fragmentation of civil society is a reality. But this is not what we should strive for. Our objective is to forge a strong political opposition. All factions should consciously move towards unity and collaborative effort. They fear our union. For us, unity means enduring greater pressure. To abandon collaboration at the first sign of pressure is precisely what they want to see. A perpetually fragmented and atomized opposition suits them well.
In the pursuit of democracy and freedom, countless idealistic Chinese, both inside and outside the system, are striving in their own ways. We need cohesion, we need to establish a shared identity.
Indeed, we already possess this.
That shared identity is citizenship. Citizenship is a concept borne of modern civilization, which did not exist in ancient China. It signifies ideals of democracy, the rule of law, freedom, and justice — ideals of political civility. It is also our identity. While democracy and freedom are aspirational concepts, they do not constitute identity. Citizenship is inalienable, having taken root in China over a century ago; whilst the autocrats fear it, they are unlikely to erase “citizen” from the constitution.
No matter the party, faction, research institute, or association — any identifiable organization, simply by having a name, risks being suppressed. However, if we take citizenship seriously, we become a true community, a unified team. It’s formless yet ubiquitous just as the Way is.
Apart from being citizens, I honestly can’t see a more fitting common identity. Citizens have no chairperson, no secretary; no hierarchy; they are not a tangible organization. Publicly declaring our identity as citizens is not about joining someone’s organization; it is about standing on a shared platform. It does not matter who is behind its advocacy, as long as it helps coalesce our strength.
In 2012, we proposed the New Citizens Movement. Later, we noticed that it was in danger of becoming a small clique. By 2017, we had stopped using the name “New Citizens”; we are simply citizens. The Citizens Movement.
Some friends still refer to us as “New Citizens.” We must apologize; we were wrong to label ourselves that way. There is no new or old — we are just citizens. All who pursue democracy and freedom in China — we are all citizens.
Citizenship is not a clique. The essence of citizenship does not belong to any individual, nor is it someone’s invention; it is the culmination of a century-long struggle by our ancestors, inscribed in the constitution, which autocrats cannot openly oppose. Each of us is a part of it.
Citizenship is not a minority status. Today, to be a citizen signifies resistance and sensitivity, and still, only a handful of brave souls resolutely uphold their identity as citizens. I hope that one day, lawyers, entrepreneurs, artists, scholars, police officers, and officials — every Chinese who cherishes democracy and freedom — will openly declare their citizenship. Ultimately, this identity belongs to every Chinese person.
This has always been each of our identities. It is so important that we cherish it, that we raise our voices for it. As it turns out, our armor is everywhere around us; when we don it, we become a righteous army, invincible wherever we go.
On Citizen Day, do a good deed, and tell those you may help, “Today is Citizen Day; I am a citizen.” Millions upon millions of people, each acting independently, can devoutly serve society at the same moment, proclaiming our shared identity. We will feel the sense of community at that moment. The growth of civil society requires such rituals.
Strength is not gained through mere preservation; it is forged through struggle. The road to freedom is not always illuminated by the sun; we are destined to brave the storms together. Growth of the citizen community requires strategy; it is not essential for everyone to lead the charge. Collective rituals are equally necessary — doing good deeds, fasting, and spiritual cultivation are actions which cannot be banned and it leads to sustainable growth.
Some Disputes
Over the past two years [in 2018 and 2019], as I have traveled to various places, I have often encountered conflicts among citizens. Some stem from ideological differences — between violence and non-violence, revolution and reform, left and right. Others involve faction disputes — who is in which circle, which area is whose domain. Some arise from personal biases, with accusations of spying on behalf of the government or misappropriation of donations. In some cities, interactions among citizen activists have nearly ceased altogether.
Political opponents in China appear particularly prone to such disputes. This may be related to personality traits; those who dare to resist tend to be more distinctive. When a group of assertive individuals comes together, friction is inevitable. This is also connected to the harsh political environment, where our adversaries are adept at sowing discord. Cultural tradition is another factor: suspicion and vigilance are ingrained in the Chinese mindset.
But what is the big deal? In such a dire environment, if internal disputes persist, how can we inspire hope in the populace? China’s greatest challenge lies in how the democratic camp can unite to form a powerful force. Differences are inevitable. We must find ways to navigate these differences, ensuring they do not lead to division or hinder our collaborative efforts.
Who are we? We are the broad pro-constitutional democracy camp, the Chinese who pursue democracy and freedom. As for the distinctions between insiders and outsiders, methods of action, or revolution versus reform — these are secondary, as long as we can work together. Whether left-center or right-center, for social democracy or free-market liberalism, as long as we recognise democratic constitutionalism, differences can be resolved through democratic means.
Many personal grievances and disputes arise from misunderstandings. There are far too many misunderstandings among people. In China, a detrimental cultural norm prevails; everyone speculates and schemes against one another. This is even more pronounced in the political arena, where “doing politics” has become synonymous with evil. We cannot simply adapt to this long-standing cultural perception; we must change it. If the citizen community is without a healthy, robust culture from the outset, even when democracy is achieved, it will lead to disappointment.
Brave individuals deserve our respect. Citizens who stand up courageously at the darkest hours must first respect one another. Those who charge ahead should not be envied; they are paving the way for others. Those who have previously shown weakness should not be dismissed because the environment is simply too harsh.
Maintain goodwill. Disagreements, criticisms, and debates are entirely normal. However, we must remember not to let criticism devolve into malicious personal attacks. Let not our differences create fissures. Without love, there can be no meaningful dialogue. Among the like-minded, criticism should not stem from hostility but rather from a genuine desire to help. We must always foster goodwill.
Yes, there are informants, but those with guilty consciences will ultimately pay the price. Some individuals lead double lives — they may seem passionate about justice but falter when faced with threats or temptations. More often than not, information is leaked unintentionally. Believing certain matters are public, individuals speak about them; thinking they are merely sharing personal opinions, they share them freely.
Resist the temptation to hunt for spies in our midst. If you genuinely suspect someone, there is no need to accuse them online; such actions only serve to deepen divisions without leading to any meaningful outcome. Spies are few and far between. Our cause is transparent; spying on us holds little value. Trusted individuals should form a core team, and temporarily avoid bringing up certain matters with those they trust less. However, we can still collaborate on some initiatives. With those suspected among comrades, the issues should be addressed directly. Honest communication behind closed doors can help dispel misunderstandings.
Do not attempt to debate truth in WeChat groups; do not seek to resolve real issues online. Virtual spaces are meant for getting to know one another and sharing ideas. If misunderstandings or differences arise, resolve them face-to-face offline, always approaching criticism with goodwill. Avoid hasty public criticism or malicious speculation. Often, arguments stem from misunderstandings; public accusations can be rash and irresponsible.
Tumult is inevitable in the beginning of the citizen community. Citizens are independent and free individuals; we cannot set boundaries through punishment — only through guidance. However, there is no need for excessive concern. In modern society, transparency prevails, and over time, people reveal their true character.
Speak Only with Love
Many disputes arise from words. Words originate from the heart.
When we criticize someone, is it borne of love, a sincere desire to help; or of hatred that manifests in anger and complaint?
Each person perceives the world differently. Disagreements are common. Even among those pursuing democracy and freedom under the tremendous pressure of autocracy, differences exist. Truth requires debate, and mistakes need criticism. The key lies in the intent behind our words, regardless of their intensity: are they spoken with goodwill, or malice?
Good-natured criticism, even when impassioned, still conveys goodwill. Malicious criticism, no matter how mildly it is expressed, reveals ill intent. Sarcasm, derision, accusation, and disdain should not be the language of citizens.
Before offering any criticism, ask yourself: Am I doing this for their benefit?
In many cities, fractures within citizen communities stem from malicious criticism and arguments. What began as minor ideological differences spiraled into speculations about motives, harsh words and personal attacks, eventually leading to complete estrangement. It’s truly disappointing to see such internal divisions at this stage of our cause when we are still weak and facing a powerful autocracy.
Some friends say, “This is my freedom of speech.” But even freedom of speech has boundaries — in any society, defamations and slander are illegal. Of course, within the citizen community, it doesn’t involve the law. Without love, there can be no dialogue, and this is our internal moral imperative. The democratic camp must unite; those who pursue freedom must stand together. Otherwise, nothing will be accomplished. The core of unity is love. Love each and every comrade.
I hope that in every local citizen group, the first rule will be: Speak only with love.
A New Culture
China’s long tradition of autocracy has bound individuals within rigid hierarchical structures. Two contrasting photos illustrate this: In one, Chinese leaders meet with scientists. The leaders sit prominently at the center, arranged according to official rank, while gray-haired scientists stand in the back row. In the other, former President Trump greets veterans at the White House. The veterans are seated in the front row, while Trump stands at the back, off to the side, grinning.
In traditional Chinese culture, seating arrangements at meals are determined by seniority and rank, particularly those with official status. A few senior members speak, while others can only listen.
In contrast, in our citizen culture, we sit and speak as equals. Seating is not hierarchical; people sit wherever they arrive. If a main seat must be designated, priority is given to women or elders. Speaking order isn’t determined by status, but is shared equally, with everyone taking turns.
We must start with ourselves to forge a new political culture. Democracy should become a habit, starting now.
Civic gatherings should promote healthy lifestyles. Meals should be simple and affordable, with the costs shared equally. Alcohol isn’t forbidden but should be consumed in moderation, so as not to impede reasoning or communication. Citizen meetups can take various forms, such as hiking or outings, or more.
We must break the habit of lying. Chinese people often lie casually; for example, inventing excuses when they are late. In modern civilized society, honesty is the foremost virtue of public figures.
Personal morality is not merely about the individual; it holds public significance too. As citizens pursuing democracy and freedom, we shoulder the mission of transforming China’s political civilization, and should therefore hold ourselves to high standards.
We must learn to distinguish between public and private matters. To move beyond a society governed by familial ties and personal connections, we must differentiate between what is private and what is public. Personal interests should be kept separate from public welfare. We gather for ideals, not for commercial gain.
Let us cultivate humility. Power and arrogance are the logic of autocracy. In modern civilization, power is bestowed by the people. Never be condescending or imperious. In democratic politics, those who lack humility are destined to fall.
Let us take care of prisoners of conscience by providing financial help to them and their families. Let us care for comrades who are ill. When local citizen groups support each other, we become stronger. We are inspired by both ideals and human compassion.
Regardless of religious beliefs, we share some common practices: fasting, humility, love. Citizens who pursue a better China embody a spiritual ethos.
Be Honest and Simple
Here’s a story from the movement to oppose segregation based on household registration and to promote equal rights to education.
One day after Phoenix TV finished taping its program on the subject, our volunteers invited the journalist Lüqiu Luwei out for a meal. Usually, we spent no more than 25 yuan per person on work-related meals. To show our appreciation, this time we went to a nice restaurant and spent more than 400 yuan for eight people.
Taoyuan, our accountant in charge of keeping the books, thought that spending so much on a meal wouldn’t look good when the books were published, so she recorded the expense as office supplies. Chinese bookkeepers often do this sort of thing.
When Shuazi heard about this and asked if this wasn’t a form of accounting fraud. Taoyuan did not think so, because everything was done in good faith, and what colleague would find fault? The conflict gradually escalated.
A few days later, I was told that something went wrong. Some of the people who were opposed to educational equality were now attacking us online as corrupt rabble-rousers.
I am a simple-minded person, to the point of being pious about things. I never try to avoid a problem. I asked that the three of us all meet in Daxing District, where I had reserved a table at a restaurant for 7:30p.m. We were all coming from different parts of Beijing. Shuazi was the first to arrive, and before the rest of us showed up he had already left. These kinds of misunderstandings are common in a group where people aren’t very familiar with each other. It was very late when we finally had a chance to sit down together.
Chinese people like to save face, and saying only half of what they mean to say is the source of many misunderstandings and quarrels. This is a very bad tradition, and we need to change it. What is face? A cause is more important than face. Rules are more important than face. There are many things more important than this artificial idea of face. It’s best to smash it to pieces and kick it into the garbage. We should be promoting a political culture that includes being kind-hearted, simple, and sincere.
I told them, whatever grievances or anger you have, just say it to the other person’s face, without any ambiguity or attempts to cover it up. They argued for a long time. In fact, most of it was just a misunderstanding.
Each of them understood what the other was saying. I summarized: Shuazi is right, this is indeed a kind of accounting fraud that we cannot tolerate. But Taoyuan did it with good intentions, so it can be forgiven. The lesson is that we need to improve the system and eliminate similar problems in the future.
We cannot tolerate false accounting or deception — not even in the slightest. We mustn’t play those kinds of games. We are not like the autocrats, who rely on violence and lies. We do everything out in the open and must be honest and simple.
Our finances must be sound and transparent. Some income and expenses cannot be disclosed at this time. We don’t talk about them, but we also don’t lie about or try to conceal them. Some don’t lend themselves to clear accounting, and those in charge of finances must be scrupulous. It takes time to build trust.
This was the biggest disagreement to come out of the movement for equal education rights. It wasn’t easy for this group of strangers to come together and work toward the same goal. When we met up five years later to reminisce about those proud days, we felt nothing but gratitude towards each other.
Honesty and truth are the best public relations strategy. The best companies in the world all understand this. Great statesmen understand it too. But we Chinese are too complicated. We have shadows written all over our faces. This must change forever, starting with our generation. If there are misunderstandings, we must have open communication to resolve them immediately. We can’t be scheming, saying only half of what we mean, or doubting each other. We must be honest and simple.
The transformation of the national character and the creation of a more civil political tradition begin with us. Honesty and simplicity are not just reserved for fellow travelers. It must be the foundation of how we live our lives. It’s the new hope for this nation.
Hearts Filled with Justice
One day in June 2012, a man came to Gongmeng (公盟) seeking our help. He said that his father had been beaten to death by local government officials after he had tried to gain entry to the United States embassy and that his father’s corpse had been flung into the courtyard of the family home back in Cangzhou, Hebei. There was a wound on his father’s head several inches long. The man said that local authorities had previously threatened his father’s life because of his petitioning activity.
Beating a 76-year-old man to death was simply wrong, no matter what his reason may have been for his petitioning. The next day, I received a photo showing a clear wound on the old man’s head. Filled with grief and indignation, I posted the photo on Weibo, suggesting that the local authorities were connected to the man’s death. Many people reposted it and expressed their condemnation.
But two days later I received a call from Mr. Yuan, one of our volunteers who had gone to Cangzhou and interviewed the old man’s family and neighbors. They said the man had been brought back from Beijing and dropped off at the village entrance, from where he walked home on his own. They also said that he had had no head injuries at the time and that he had died later that night. He may have stumbled and fallen while on his way to relieve himself, or he may have been beaten to death in the middle of the night. They were still waiting for the medical examiner to confirm the cause of death. I immediately posted an apology for posting false information.
My apology drew a lot of criticism, some of which I accepted sincerely because I hadn’t been careful enough in posting the photo and comment. Some took issue with my apology and said I was carrying water for the regime. It wasn’t the first time I had been criticized in such a vehement way. This had also happened around the investigation report into the death of Qian Yunhui and the “primary school student prostitution” case in Yunnan.
Some say we need to position ourselves as critics. I disagree. We are on the side of justice, and that position will never change. In such an extremely unjust society, standing on the side of justice will inevitably mean standing on the side of the vulnerable. But if you find that you have made mistakes, you must apologize. Taking responsibility for one’s words is the least that should be expected of us.
There’s no shortage of evil and suffering in this country. Much of the time, we feel a deep sense of helplessness. There’s no need to resort to lies when criticizing the regime or to spread falsehoods in the name of justice. For many years, we’ve been trying to help the weakest members of our society. I will always stand by them, but the truth is a prerequisite for justice. We must never be unprincipled or unscrupulous. We must never treat lies as truth or truth as a lie.
Autocrats believe in doing whatever it takes. They falsify history: the Communist Party was the stalwart of the War of Resistance against Japan; landlord Liu Wencai was portrayed as a tyrannical oppressor; the Party has been right in all things and all time. This is what we want to oppose. But this land is too deeply poisoned, and some opponents of authoritarianism also approve of achieving the end by using whatever means.
That’s the way they are: care only the side they are on and don’t concern themselves with right and wrong; using lies, planted evidence, framings, anything goes — to attack their opponents; demonize the other side, launch personal attacks, and even get into fistfights for differences of opinion. In this country, there is so much distrust between people and across the political spectrum, between the government and the people, and between the rich and the poor. The internet is full of personal attacks, insults, and verbal abuse.
If a pro-democracy citizen behaves just as unscrupulously as an autocrat, what have we to offer China?
There are two basic forces in human society: love and fear. The autocratic order relies on fear — people obey because they are afraid. Stalin said that fear is more important than respect. The democratic order relies on love. Presidents are elected because the majority of people like them deep in their hearts. We cannot make people afraid, and, in choosing constitutional democracy, we are drawing our strength from love.
We are responsible for the future of China. No matter how much evil we face, we must hold fast to the ideals of good politics and to our faith in freedom, justice, and love. We are creating an oasis of trust and love in this human desert of mutual suspicion and hostility. We must earn the respect of others, including the respect of our opponents. The democratic politics of the future will never be about attacking each other without basic principles. Democratic competition must be based on an ethical bottom line.
Our hearts must be righteous at all times. We do not oppose the regime by any means necessary. We do not seek the truth by distorting the facts. We cannot take a firm stand by ignoring right and wrong. We must speak the truth, even when public opinion rages all around us. We aren’t trying to curry favor with anyone; we’re only trying to hold fast to our convictions. Our generation must lay the foundation of political ethics for a better China.
Political Ethics
In June 2010, Gongmeng began to promote a Citizens’ Pledge:
“Chinese citizens who pursue the rule of law and justice pledge that we will jointly adhere to the modern concept of citizenship based on conscience, responsibility, democracy, and the rule of law…. We hereby pledge to: (1) Conduct ourselves with conscience, understanding, respect, and concern for others; (2) Obey the constitution and the law and uphold their correct implementation; (3) Uphold social justice and demonstrate social righteousness in a lawful and compassionate manner in daily life; and (4) Adhere to the basic principles of professional ethics in the workplace . . . .”
As I have walked this path of love and justice over these many years, I’ve often asked myself why I do what I do. Is my conduct worthy of the respect and pride of every Chinese person? Am I sincerely helping my clients in all the legal aid cases I take on? Do I express my sincere beliefs every time I make a public statement? Can I deal with people questioning my motives?
This society is rotten — are we going to rot away with it the rest of our lives as well? There are many kinds of sound in a room. Most of it is noise, and it’s all too easy for us to add to that noise. In their souls, however, people love the sound of beautiful music. If we are brave enough to make beautiful music, we can definitely change the room because that is what each soul desires.
Chinese political culture is a terrible soil in which to work. The entire 20th century failed to produce the fruits of democracy and freedom. Our special mission is to enrich and transform this soil.
Some citizens will become future politicians. The character of a politician basically depends on the nature of the system. Beliefs are also important. The character of citizens will impact the quality of the emerging democratic politics for a long time to come. The dream of better politics for the Chinese nation must be built on moral cornerstones from the very beginning.
We must continuously emphasize morality and practice virtuous politics. Some people say that I’m too dogmatic. Dogmatism isn’t the problem. China’s biggest problem is that people are too clever in their dealings with each other. The poison runs so deep in this land, and politics has been demonized in people’s minds. We need to correct what has been turned upside down. We believe in conscience. Relying on conscience, we will conduct ourselves with peace, rationality, moderation, and firmness.
We are citizens.
This group of Chinese people are leading the way in standing up to express their disgust with tyranny, excessive power, corruption, and injustice. They care about the public interest, the freedom and dignity of strangers, and the future of the country. They believe in democracy, the rule of law, freedom, human rights, and the universal trend of human civilization. This is our destiny, and also a responsibility that cannot be shirked.
Citizens need a code of conduct. It can be summed up as follows:
- Serve with humility, take responsibility, put aside ego, and seek personal growth;
- Pursue democracy, keep promises, speak only with love, and strengthen your ranks;
- Be honest and simple, be conscientious and fair, distinguish between public and private interests, and engage in public service.
Through our actions, we hope to tell the nation that, when the dictatorship falls, China will not be plunged into turmoil but will have a better future because of us as citizens. We will do things better than the autocrats have done.
Remember our responsibility to this country. Our civilization will be reborn through constitutional democracy. Be a good person from this point on. Maintain your integrity and defend justice in this society that lacks both. Spark hope in this society that is corrupt and festering, lost and confused.
I could keep writing this letter. I’ve written it for mutual encouragement, for the sake of the country and the people, and to better ourselves.
Together, we change China!
Related:
Urgent: Citizens Movement Leader Xu Zhiyong on Hunger Strike in Protest of Inhumane Treatment in Prison, China Change, October 24, 2024.
Chinese original: 许志永《美好中国之十六：我们的力量——致公民》
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