More than 2,600 overseas Chinese from around the world recently participated in an online program to trace their cultural and ancestral roots in Wuxi City.
The event was a collaboration between the city’s Xinwu District and over 50 overseas Chinese organizations from 28 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia and Kenya. It targeted young people of Chinese origin or descent living abroad.
The program began with an introduction of the ancient Wu culture, named after the state of Wu, which existed over 3,200 years ago. This included a study of the evolution of the Chinese character “Wu.” Participants recited the Qian Family Instructions, a code of conduct for descendants of the Qian family, and learned about Qian Mu, a Chinese historian and philosopher, and Qian Weichang, a pioneer in modern mechanics in China.
Participants also enjoyed a virtual tour of a vineyard in Hongshan town and viewed locally unearthed artifacts.
A student surnamed Wu from Spain found the evolution of the word “Wu” fascinating and admired the Yufeifeng, a jade engraving discovered in Hongshan. Another student from Canada was captivated by the picturesque Taihu Lake and unique charm of Wuxi.
Li Tao, chairman of the Wuxi City Overseas Chinese Federation, said the online event has facilitated broad participation and will further promote Chinese culture globally.
The program’s objective is to help overseas Chinese youth learn the Chinese language and better understand China's development and its culture.
Contact us at english@jschina.com.cn
