On October 5th, at noon in San Francisco’s St. Mary’s Park, colorful flags fluttered while a crowd of people gathered. Over a hundred community groups and overseas Chinese from all walks of life came together to hold a grand ceremony to celebrate the 114th National Day of the Republic of China in front of the statue of the founding father, Mr. Sun Yat-sen.
The ceremony was presided over by Zhang Boqi, President of the San Francisco Chinese Traditional Culture Association.
Dignitaries in attendance included Wu Zhixiang, Director of the San Francisco Office, Zhong Weijun, Chairman of the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall in Golden Gate Park, representatives from the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission, and several overseas Chinese leaders.
The solemn ceremony began with the national anthem, and all participants stood in reverence, offering the highest salute to the flag of the Republic of China under the clear blue sky and bright sun.
President Zhang Boqi delivered a speech emphasizing the significance of the Xinhai Revolution 114 years ago, which overthrew the autocracy and established a republic, laying the foundation for democracy and freedom in the Republic of China. “Freedom, democracy, unity, and struggle have become our shared beliefs,” he said. “We must cherish the hard-won freedom, bravely face challenges, and work together for the prosperity of the country and the happiness of the people.” He wished for the prosperity of the nation and the well-being of the people.
Director Wu Zhixiang of the San Francisco Office delivered an emotional speech, expressing how witnessing the flag rise overseas was an inspiring and honorable moment. He pointed out that since its founding, the Republic of China has faced numerous challenges but has always adhered to the values of democracy and freedom.
“We have never retreated but have overcome difficulties step by step,” Wu Zhixiang emphasized, acknowledging the steadfast support of overseas Chinese as crucial to the continued progress of the Republic of China. He conveyed the government’s highest respect to all overseas Chinese in the United States.
Since arriving in San Francisco, Wu observed the efforts of Taiwanese people in various fields, excelling in mainstream society and serving as important bridges in promoting Taiwan-U.S. relations. “All of you are our best diplomats,” he said. “You showcase Taiwan to the world and continue to shine the Republic of China on the international stage.”
In conclusion, he wished the Republic of China a happy 114th birthday, calling for unity among all citizens to enhance global awareness and respect for Taiwan, and hoping for the prosperity and peace of the nation, successful careers and happy families for overseas Chinese.
During his speech, Zhong Weijun, Chairman of the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, highlighted that St. Mary’s Park is not only a landmark of San Francisco but also an important historical site for the birth of the Republic of China. Mr. Sun Yat-sen established the “Hung Mun Resource Bureau” here in 1911, raising $400,000 in revolutionary funds, which led to the success of the Xinhai Revolution on October 10 of the same year.
“One could say that the starting point of the Republic of China’s revolution was here in San Francisco,” Zhong Weijun emphasized, urging overseas Chinese to remember the sacrifices and contributions of our forefathers.
Reflecting on modern history, he noted that since its establishment, the Republic of China has experienced the Northern Expedition for reunification, a 14-year resistance against Japan, culminating in victory in 1945. On October 25 of the same year, Taiwan was officially returned at the Zhongshan Hall in Taipei. “The free Republic of China today is the result of the countless sacrifices and struggles of our predecessors.”
Zhong Weijun stated that after 80 years of development, the Republic of China has become a model of democracy and freedom in Asia, having completed three shifts in ruling parties, showcasing a mature democratic system.
Following the ceremony, the sound of drums rang out, and various community groups, schools, and performance teams paraded through the main streets of Chinatown in San Francisco, starting from St. Mary’s Park and culminating at the Union Square. Along the way, people waved the flag of the Republic of China and the American flag, with cheers filling the air.
The celebration event held at Union Square was exceptionally lively. Traditional lion dances, ethnic dances, and singing performances took turns on stage.
The National Day celebration in San Francisco has been held for many years, becoming an important annual event for the overseas Taiwanese community in Northern California. The event not only consolidates the cohesion of overseas Taiwanese and Chinese, but also demonstrates the lasting belief and strength of the Republic of China in the international community.