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Q: What is it about 'mourning days' in China? The actual meaning of...
In view of the possible tragedy of recent flight to BJ, it made me think of some events where this govt shut down basically all entertainment venues, so that the populace can mourn accordingly.
I can certainly understand the huge earthquake in/around Chengdu a few yrs ago where some 50,000 lives were lost.
However, I also recollect some years later where another earthquake occurred & abt 1200 lives were lost (sorry, but don't remember the exact details?) where all was shut down in Qingdao,(and of China) the Beer Festival, all cinemas etc... it was on a Sunday. I remember it well because a couple of friends were visiting from Aust. & nothing was opened that day.
My point is, for a society that largely cares for family only, is it really appropiate for 'small scale tragedies' to be acknowledged in this way?
How many Chinese families are going to sit home & mourn all day about people they dont know? Very few if any I'd say.
And, what about grieving for all those that die in car accidents in China, latest estimate some 100,000 per year, & the poor miners some 5000 - 6000 per year?? These deaths far outweigh those of natural disasters. Why aren't they recognised in the same way??
Any thoughts?
I guess this mourning is more symbolic rather than felt wholeheartedly. The government needs to show compassion for its citizens, the compassion is real or otherwise is not taken into consideration. For those who passed away in car accidents or whatever are solitary cases. There's nothing to mourn about. I've seen many countries go into mourning at events like remembering the war dead, great calamities etc. This is similar, isn't it?
It is very important for a totalitarian regime to play into these events.
That being said. The Kunming massacre does deserve some respect to the victims.
