Journalists’ Day
Journalist Day is a public holiday observed in China every year on the 8th of November. It is designed to honor journalists and is celebrated in memory of a reporter who was executed in 1933 for pro-communist views, Liu Yusheng. This holiday is widely celebrated across China but is seldom celebrated by Chinese citizens in the diaspora.
China (Observance)That’s because the holiday is somewhat controversial, considering that the Chinese government has been known for silencing dissenting voices. Therefore, it may seem ironic to some that there is a holiday celebrating journalists and journalism.
The History of Journalist Day in China
The holiday was created in 1999 in memory of Liu Yusheng, a reporter for Jiang Sheng Daily who was executed on this day in 1933 for his pro-communist views. The holiday is used to honor and promote journalists who support the party with their work and write pro-State pieces in China and abroad. However, it is not a holiday that promotes dissenting voices in journalism. Only pro-China journalists are considered.
Observing Journalist Day in China
The holiday is observed with state-sponsored events that award and promote journalists who toe a pro-China and pro-communist line in China. It is also observed with special television programs, parties, and other events. For the most part, it is a holiday that is only celebrated in China and isn’t usually celebrated by Chinese living outside of the country.
China (Observance)
