On November 15, 2025, the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) branch in the United States held a commemoration ceremony at the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in San Francisco to mark the 159th birth anniversary of the founding father, Sun Yat-sen, and the 131st anniversary of the establishment of the KMT. Many overseas Chinese community leaders and political figures gathered to reflect on the revolutionary career and personal integrity of the founding father.
The event was chaired by Yang Kunshan, a standing committee member, and commenced with the national anthems of both China and the United States. All attendees paid respects to the flags of China and America, as well as the portrait of Sun Yat-sen. Following this, representatives from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco, the Northern California Overseas Chinese Education Center, and various overseas Chinese associations laid flowers at Sun Yat-sen’s portrait as a gesture of reverence.
In his speech, Deputy Director Zhu Yongchang of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco, speaking on behalf of Director Wu Zhixiang, emphasized that commemorating Sun Yat-sen’s birthday is not only about reflecting on history but also serves as a reminder that today’s free and democratic Republic of China is the result of the founding father’s unparalleled resilience and sacrifices.
Deputy Director Zhu highlighted that without Sun Yat-sen’s leadership in the Xinhai Revolution, the Republic of China would not have been born. He further stated that Sun Yat-sen’s extraordinary vision, unwavering determination, patriotism, and fearless spirit were instrumental in his groundbreaking revolution. Today, in commemorating the founding father, it is vital to cherish the Republic of China’s existing democratic system and continue to advance the progress of the nation.
Chairman Ji Hongyan of the China General Assembly and the Zhaoqing General Assembly pointed out during his speech that honoring the founding father is not just about praising his achievements but also about upholding his spirit of “the revolution is not complete, comrades still need to strive.” He emphasized Sun Yat-sen’s unwavering commitment to his ideals and willingness to prioritize the nation’s best interests, even offering the interim presidency to Yuan Shikai, showcasing his global outlook and dedication to the welfare of the people.
President Zhang Boqi of the Chinese Traditional Culture Association emphasized that the founding father’s spirit of “the world belongs to the public” and the principle of “aspiring to accomplish great things, not aspiring to hold high office” are the most precious legacies left for future generations. He stressed that amidst global changes, the Three Principles of the People remain a vital guiding light for nation-building and pursuing national rejuvenation.
Chairman Zhong Weijun of the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in San Francisco, in his address, talked about the founding father’s humble origins and his transformation from a farmer’s son in Guangdong to a pioneer of democratic revolution. He highlighted Sun Yat-sen’s educational journey to Hawaii at the age of 14, followed by further studies in Hong Kong, ultimately leading to his involvement in medicine and the revolutionary cause, showcasing a strong spirit of seeking knowledge and nationalistic fervor.
Chairman Zhong detailed the key locations of the founding father’s revolutionary activities, including Hong Kong, Yokohama, and San Francisco, emphasizing the crucial support of overseas Chinese in the Xinhai Revolution, with San Francisco being a significant hub for revolutionary funding and organization. From the Xingzhong Club and the Alliance Association to the later establishment of the KMT, Sun Yat-sen’s revolutionary network established overseas played an indispensable role in toppling the Qing Dynasty and establishing the Republic.
This event not only paid homage to the founding father but also, on the occasion of the 131st anniversary of the party’s founding, allowed overseas compatriots to review the historical contributions of the KMT in democratic nation-building and national rejuvenation. Participants expressed their commitment to continue striving towards the sustainable development of the Republic of China guided by the teachings and legacy of the founding father.