Luoqiao Patriotic Songs: Preserving History & Resistance Memory
Los Angeles Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Victory with Patriotic Song Competition
Los Angeles, CA – On August 30th, the Los Angeles overseas Chinese Cultural and Education Service Center resonated with the powerful melodies of patriotism as the Luo Provincial Excellent Association hosted its annual “patriotic Songs and Singing Competition.” This year’s event, expanded to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan, drew nearly 200 overseas chinese, creating an atmosphere of unity and remembrance.
The competition, now in its fourth year, saw participants from across Southern California, all eager to express thier love for their heritage through song. As one singer noted, the ambition was to participate, not necessarily to win, emphasizing the importance of inspiring others and awakening cherished memories.
Adding to the event’s significance, Kuomintang legislator Xu Yuzhen made a special appearance, fresh from a Legislative Yuan meeting. Xu expressed joy in witnessing the continued singing of patriotic songs of the Republic of China overseas, highlighting the event as a vital continuation of past spirit and a way to connect people with national sentiments and historical memories.
A especially touching moment came with the presence of Zheng Jingping, the 96-year-old mother of the event’s host, Lin Huiyi. Zheng, who proudly declared she could sing all the songs, remarked with emotion, “Seeing so many people attending the competition, the Republic of China is still very promising.” Her words,coupled with the sight of seniors waving national flags and cheering for the contestants,created a solemn and deeply moving atmosphere. Lin Huiyi and Zheng Jingping also sang patriotic songs together, encouraging history and inspiring people.
Cao Jingyong, president of the Luo Shengjie People’s Association, underscored the profound significance of the event. “The Republic of China has had many misfortunes along the way,” Cao stated, “Countless military and civilians died in order to defend their country, and future generations cannot forget it.” She emphasized the importance of remembering the martyrs and those who sacrificed their lives, adding that promoting patriotic songs serves as a powerful means to awaken historical memories and cherish the sacrifices of predecessors.
The competition culminated in the recognition of outstanding talent. liu Zheng,Wang Lijie,and Wu Dianlong took the top three spots in the men’s group,while Lai Yihui emerged as the women’s champion,followed by Huang Heqing and Tang Guangrong. Lai Yihui and Tang Guangrong also secured the chorus championship, with Ji Yueheng and Leng Manqi as runner-ups, and Zeng Shuqing and Wu Wenyu in third place.
The event featured a panel of five professional judges, including Yang Zhennan, ensuring a fair and discerning evaluation of the performances.
The 80th-anniversary commemoration served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and a testament to the enduring power of music to connect generations and preserve cultural heritage.