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| Hello, and welcome to the Culture Class- Holidays in China Series at ChineseClass101.com. In this series, we’re exploring the traditions behind Chinese holidays and observances. I’m Eric, and you're listening to Season 1, Lesson 25. Youth Day. In Chinese, it’s called 五四青年节 (wǔsì qīngnián jié). |
| Youth Day is a holiday commemorating the May Fourth Movement of 1919, which raised the flag of anti-imperialism and patriotism in China. |
| Because of this historic event, May 4 is now reserved as a public holiday that goes by the name of Youth Day. On this day, young people in China receive a half-day off. |
| Now, before we get into more detail, do you know the answer to this question- |
| What is the legal definition of youth in China? |
| If you don't already know, you’ll find out a bit later. Keep listening. |
| The May Fourth Movement bears great significance to China’s modern history. On May 1, 1919, students from universities in Beijing organized a massive protest or 大规模游行 (dà guī mó yóuxíng) against unequal treaties signed by the government at the Paris Peace Conference. This movement marked the beginning of the New Democratic Revolution in China. |
| Today, there are various celebratory activities observed on Youth Day. Youth Leagues organize social activities or 社会实践 (shèhuì shíjiàn), such as volunteering in nursing homes or helping traffic coordinators maintain traffic order. High schools also participate by holding a coming of age ceremony called 成人冠礼 (chéngrén guān lǐ) for junior students who are to graduate soon after Youth Day. |
| Although almost one hundred years have passed since the May Fourth Movement, the spirit of patriotism or 爱国主义 (àiguózhǔyì), progress, democracy and science that the movement upheld are still advocated in contemporary China. “May Fourth” has consequently become a cultural symbol, and “May Fourth Youth” refers the patriotic youth of the country. |
| In recent years, the "Republican style" has become prevalent in universities. Many university students wear the student uniforms worn during the rule of the Republic of China as a means of celebration. |
| Now it's time to answer our quiz question- |
| What is the legal definition of youth in China? |
| The Youth Day is for people between the ages of 14 and 28. All young people under the age of 14 are legally considered children. |
| What did you think of this lesson? Did you learn anything interesting? |
| Are there any festivals for the youth in your country? Please leave a comment telling us at ChineseClass101.com, and I'll see you in our next series. Bye! |
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