A human rights organization has criticized China for preventing families of the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown from visiting their graves on the 37th anniversary. Amnesty International called this move heartless and demanded accountability for the human rights violations during the crackdown. The families were not allowed to commemorate those killed 37 years ago or exercise their right to protest.
The events leading to the Tiananmen Massacre started in April 1989 with peaceful gatherings in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, advocating for free expression, democratic reform, and an end to corruption. On June 3-4, the Chinese army fired on protesters and bystanders, resulting in several deaths. The Tiananmen Mothers group was informed by the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau that they could not visit Wan’an Cemetery to pay respects to their loved ones or hold customary commemorative activities on the 37th anniversary.
For the first time in over three decades, authorities prevented family members from visiting the graves of those killed in the Tiananmen crackdown. Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director, Sarah Brooks, condemned this action, stating that it reflects the government’s deep insecurity about accountability for the events of June 4, 1989. The Chinese government’s attempt to erase public memory and deny families the right to mourn is seen as increasingly harsh and lacking compassion.
The Tiananmen Mothers group, consisting of relatives of protesters killed in the crackdown, has annually visited Wan’an Cemetery to mourn and honor their loved ones for more than 30 years. They have urged the Chinese government to disclose the truth about the crackdown and hold those responsible accountable. Members of the group have faced surveillance and restrictions, especially leading up to the June 4 anniversary date.
