‘We will never forget Tiananmen crackdown’: Taiwan, US say on 36th anniversary
Taipei/Washington, June 4, 2025 — Taiwan and the United States marked the 36th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown with clear statements and public tributes. Both reaffirmed their support for human rights and democracy while honoring the victims of China’s 1989 protests.
The Tiananmen Square massacre occurred on June 4, 1989, when Chinese troops fired on peaceful demonstrators. Protesters, many of them students, had called for democracy and reform. The death toll remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from hundreds to possibly thousands. The Chinese government still refuses to acknowledge the full scope of the tragedy.
Taiwan’s Firm Support for Democracy
President Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s recently elected leader, issued a strong statement on the anniversary.
“Taiwan stands with those who pursue freedom,” Lai said. “We will never forget the courage of Tiananmen protesters.”
Taiwan’s foreign ministry shared a candlelight vigil image on social media, using the hashtag #NeverForgetJune4. The post read, “Democracy will prevail. We remember June 4, 1989.” The hashtag trended in Taiwan throughout the day.
Taiwan, a democratic island, continues to defy pressure from Beijing. It openly commemorates the massacre while mainland China censors all mention of it.
US Stands in Solidarity
The US State Department released a statement honoring the victims and urging accountability.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said:
“We remember those who died demanding reform. We urge China to reveal the truth.”
The White House lit part of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in red and white. This gesture honored the memory of the protesters. Several US lawmakers echoed these sentiments.
Senator Marco Rubio highlighted the link between Tiananmen and today’s resistance movements in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Representative Nancy Pelosi called the anniversary a “moral reminder” to defend freedom globally.
Vigils Across the World
Candlelight vigils took place in Taipei, Washington, Tokyo, and London. Activists and exiled dissidents led tributes in person and online. In China, public events were banned under security laws. Authorities detained several activists and issued warnings ahead of the date.
Thousands gathered in Taipei’s Liberty Square. They held candles and signs that read “Freedom is not free” and “We Remember 1989.” Wu’er Kaixi, one of the original student leaders, addressed the crowd.
“We carry their hopes for a free China,” he said. “We will not let their memory fade.”
China Censors the Past
Chinese state media ignored the anniversary. Online platforms censored terms like “June 4,” “Tiananmen,” and even “candle.” Authorities detained activists and shut down discussion across Chinese social media.
Rights groups condemned the government’s actions. Amnesty International called the detentions “a brutal attempt to erase history.” Human Rights Watch said the crackdown showed Beijing’s fear of dissent.
A Lasting Legacy
The Tiananmen Square anniversary remains a symbol of resistance. Taiwan and the US use this day to highlight their democratic values. They contrast their openness with China’s censorship and repression.
Taiwan sees its response not just as remembrance, but as a warning. Its leaders believe democracy must be defended, especially when authoritarian forces grow stronger.
The US echoed this view. Officials emphasized that democracy requires memory, accountability, and courage.
