56 Years and Counting: Qiangao's Unbroken Tradition of Honoring Revolutionary Martyrs
In the heart of Ninghai County, in the small town of Qiangao, the annual ritual of sweeping the graves at the Revolutionary Martyrs' Cemetery on Daiyu Mountain has been taking place for 56 years. This solemn event, which has been carried out by local teachers and students since 1968, is a testament to the enduring respect and admiration for the four revolutionary martyrs who sacrificed their lives in Ninghai. The tradition began when local fishermen built a tomb and erected a monument for the four martyrs who had fallen in Ninghai. Since then, every year on the eve of Qingming Festival, teachers and students from nearby schools, along with local villagers, have been voluntarily visiting the cemetery to pay their respects.
26 March 2024
The ceremony has been uninterrupted for 56 years, symbolizing the deep respect and gratitude the community has for its heroes. According to a report by Zhejiang Voice, a video posted on Weibo shows a group of teachers and students from the Central School of Qiangao Town visiting the cemetery on March 26th.
The group is seen cleaning the graves, laying wreaths, and offering incense to honor the martyrs. The video and the related hashtag #师生接力祭扫烈士墓56年# have sparked a wave of comments and discussions on Weibo. Netizens have expressed their admiration for the long-lasting tradition and the commitment of the local community to preserving the memory of the revolutionary martyrs.
One Weibo user, in a comment translated as "This is truly a touching and moving event. The respect and gratitude for the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country will never fade away.", echoed the feelings of many. Another user added, "This is a tradition that should be continued and passed on to future generations.
It's a way of remembering our history and honoring the heroes who made it possible." The annual ritual of sweeping the graves at the Revolutionary Martyrs' Cemetery on Daiyu Mountain is a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between the community and its heroes. It serves as a testament to the spirit of respect and gratitude that has been passed down through generations, and continues to be a significant part of the local culture. As the 56th year of this tradition comes to a close, the community's commitment to preserving the memory of the revolutionary martyrs remains stronger than ever. The ceremony, which has become a cherished tradition, will undoubtedly continue to inspire and move generations to come.