The U.S. Department of State Issued a Statement “The 33rd Anniversary of Tiananmen Square”

On June 3, the U.S. Department of State released a press statement from its Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s on the 33rd Anniversary of Tiananmen Square. Below is the full text of the statement.

“Tomorrow, we will commemorate the 33rd anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing. In 1989, thousands of pro-democracy protesters rallied there to peacefully call for democracy, accountability, freedom, and the rule of law.” On June 4, 1989, after fifty days of protesting, it came to an abrupt end amid a bloody crackdown by CCP forces. Countless people had been imprisoned, and the number of deaths is still unknown today.

The efforts of these brave people will not be forgotten. Every year, we pay tribute to and honor those who have stood up for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Although many of them are no longer able to speak for themselves, we and many around the world will continue to stand up on their behalf and support their peaceful efforts to promote democracy and individual rights.

Today, the struggle for democracy and freedom continues to reverberate in Hong Kong. The annual vigil to commemorate the Tiananmen Square massacre was banned by the CCP and Hong Kong authorities who sought to suppress memories of that day. We will continue to speak out and push for accountability for CCP atrocities and human rights abuses in Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet. For the sake of the Chinese people and those who never give up and continue to oppose injustice and seek freedom, we will not forget June 4.