On October 12, a special exhibition titled “Nine Days in Yan’an: A Commemoration of Chen Jiageng’s 150th Birthday” opened in Beijing.
The exhibition centers around Chen Jiageng’s trip to Yan’an and is divided into three sections: “Exploration – Living in Nanyang, Heartfelt Longing for the Motherland,” “Pursuit – Nine Days in Yan’an, Walking Together,” and “Return – Discussing National Affairs, Lasting Influence.” It showcases the historical ties between Chen Jiageng and the Communist Party of China, emphasizing their mutual understanding and shared goals.
In 1940, Chen Jiageng led a delegation of Overseas Chinese from Nanyang to visit Yan’an. During this visit, he engaged with people from various sectors and conducted thorough research. He witnessed the hardworking and upright spirit of the Communist Party members in Yan’an, which led him to conclude that “China’s hope lies in Yan’an.” Subsequently, Chen actively promoted his experiences in Yan’an abroad, providing a valuable perspective for a broader understanding of the true Yan’an.
Wang Lijun, Chairman of the Chinese Overseas Chinese Association, remarked on Chen Jiageng’s lifelong patriotism, entrepreneurship, and dedication to education, noting that his spirit has influenced generations. He emphasized the significance of the exhibition in commemorating the 150th anniversary of Chen Jiageng’s birth while reflecting on the development of the Party’s work related to Overseas Chinese during that era.
At the opening ceremony, Wang Yuhong, the former president of the Malaysian Returned Overseas Chinese Association, shared poignant stories of her ancestors, Wang Yuting and Wang Weizhen, and their connections with Chen Jiageng.
The exhibition is guided by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage and organized by the Chinese Overseas Chinese Association, with support from the Chinese Overseas Chinese Historical Museum and the Information and Communication Department of the Chinese Overseas Chinese Association, among others. Notable attendees at the opening included Wan Lijun, Sui Jun, Xu Xiaolan, and Luo Wenli.