ChinaInsight Fostering business and cultural harmony between China and the U.S. VOL. 16 NO. 5 June 2017 Avast ye, matey!

China Briefs, p. 3

WWTT, p. 4, 13

This Lego® model is inspired by two paintings portraying the sea battle of the pirates and the Chinese troops in Hong Kong. The creators try to imitate the sea battle at the Lantau Island. (Pirates of the South Sea, p. 9)

Arts & Culture, p. 8, 16 Culture Grand songs of the Dong ethnic group By Bu Aihua, contributor

Editor’s note: Professor Bu Aihua is a visiting scholar from China. She is the dean and professor in Foreign Language School of Huaihua University in Huihua City in western Hunan Province, the main origin of Hmong and other minorities. Her major research interests cover comparative education, biculturalism and bicultural active living lifestyle with a special focus on the Hmong youth in western part of Hunan Province and the state of Minnesota. Society, p. 13

I am a Miao (Hmong) ethnic minority In This Issue from Huaihua City. I was amazed to learn Arts & Culture 8, 9, 16 there were more than 60,000 Hmong people Books 11,12 in Minnesota when I first visited Minne- apolis two years ago by chance; moreover, Business & Economics 4 there was even a center for Hmong Studies Community 7, 15 at Concordia University and over 8,000 Education 5,10 students, scholars and community members Events 15 had visited the center since its founding. Government & Politics 14 Enormous curiosity and great expectations Health & Home 4 inspired me to come back to explore the Hmong here ---the people, history, cultures, History 6 religious beliefs, language, etc., to seek the News 3 effective ways for more communication and Opinion 11 collaboration between the Hmong of Min- People 15 nesota and the Miao in China, especially in Pronouncements 2 the western part of Hunan Province. Science & Technology 10 Society 13 A singing master teaching her pupils Dong Grand Songs. Photo by Yang Xiao Continued on page 16 PAGE 2 / June 2017 pronouncements www.chinainsight.info

Congress. It declared that the 13 American Publisher’s Pronouncements colonies regarded themselves as a new na- tion, the United States of America, and were ChinaInsight Greetings, honored on the day by their family, friends, no longer part of the British Empire. As summer heats up, so do the number or coworkers. In addition, July 8 & 9 will be the Publisher: of great, local outdoor activities scheduled This wasn't always the case in China Dragon Festival, honoring Pan-Asian Gregory J. Hugh throughout the Twin Cities area, capitaliz- though. During the WWII years, Father's heritage and spirit! Lake Phalen Park in St. [email protected] ing on the arrival of summer vacations and Day was celebrated on August 8. The Paul, will come alive again during two days great weather. This bodes well for all of the Republic of China government wanted to of colorful, traditional dances and music graduation ceremonies and parties that will celebrate the soldiers who died and honor to showcase the performance arts of Asia. Manager of be held throughout the Twin Cities area and fathers. They chose that date because in Dances from the ceremonial to the theatrical Operations/Circulation: we congratulate the Class of 2017 and wish Chinese August 8 can be shortened to "bā are as varied as the colors on the performers' Richard He them great success as they move on to the bā" (八八 'eight eight'). This sounds similar authentic clothing! [email protected] next chapter of their lives. to the informal term for father (爸爸, bàba). Each Asian country has its own indel- In this issue, we are pleased to include an This tradition dropped off in the Mainland, ible sound even though the instruments are article on page 12 as the foreword to “Paral- but was continued in Taiwan under the Re- rather similar. From the mesmerizing sound Staff Writers: lel Universes: Essays and Conversations” public of China government. of the Chinese flute to the energetic Taiko Greg Hugh by Chang WANG, a regular China Insight In Taiwan, Father's Day is not an official drumming, Asian music with its pentatonic [email protected] contributor. We also are pleased to present holiday, but is now widely observed on melodies abound throughout the weekend. what we expect to be a series of articles by August 8. People often take their father out Wherever you are from, you should at- Elaine Dunn Professor Bu Aihua, a visiting scholar from for dinner, give gifts, or at least call them to tend this free event so you can explore all [email protected] China, about the Dong ethnic people. The give them a greeting.. (Baba Jie can stand that these unique, energetic cultures have first of the series appears on p.1 and 16. for, 八八节 or 爸爸节: August 8th Day' or to offer! Contributors: We also want to take this opportunity 'Fathers' Day'.) Sincerely, Bu Aihua to wish all of the fathers out there a Happy In July, Americans celebrate Indepen- [email protected] Father’s Day even though in Mainland dence Day, also referred to as the Fourth China, Father's Day (the third Sunday in of July or July Fourth. In the U.S., it is a Gregory J. Hugh Judy Hohmann June) is relatively unknown. It isn't a public federal holiday commemorating the adop- Publisher- CEO [email protected] holiday, but expats in China might celebrate tion of the Declaration of Independence 241 China Insight it. Perhaps some Western fathers might be years ago on July 4, 1776, by the Continental Gina Van Thomme [email protected]

Chang Wang [email protected] FREE Patrick Welsh [email protected] SUBSCRIPTIONS Production Editor: Getting to know you . . . Teresa Khamlusa [email protected] Who are you? What articles do you enjoy reading? China Insight would like to ensure our content matches your interests. Please take a few minutes to complete this poll so we can update our reader Honorary: demographics. For your time, the first 10 respondents each month will receive a free annual subscription to China Insight. Winners will be notified Jennifer Nordin, Editor Emeritus by email. [email protected] Entry Form  Please send me free China Insight for a year if I am one of the first 10 respondents this month About ChinaInsight The top two articles that interested me the most in this issue are: ChinaInsight is a monthly English Page Article title language newspaper fostering business Page Article title and cultural harmony between China I would like to see more articles on and the U.S.    Employment Status Student Self-employed Retired Age 19 & under 20 - 40 Gender Male Other (please specify)  41 - 60  60 +  Female ChinaInsight is a Member of The Minnesota Chapter of the Asian Employment Sector Education Government Private industry Ethnicity Asian Caucasian Hispanic Other (please specify) African American Other American Journalists Association (AAJA). Where did you get this issue of China Insight?

Name Submissions & First Last Correspondence ChinaInsight welcomes guest articles Address Email Street City State Zip and letters to the editor. Correspondence should be addressed to: One entry per month. Please return entry to: China Insight 750 Mainstreet, #230, Hopkins, MN 55343 Editor, ChinaInsight 750 Mainstreet, #230 Hopkins, MN 55343 Tel: 612-723-4872 Insight [email protected] Letters to the editor become the property hina nsight Guaranteed of ChinaInsight and June be edited for C I length and published. Articles will not be SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM published without the express consent 10 issues - $24 for a domestic subscription and $40 for of the author. international. NOTICE TO READERS: The Please make check payable to ChinaInsight, 750 Mainstreet, YES you could run to the views expressed in articles are the #230 Hopkins, MN 55343 store and pick up a copy, but author’s and not necessarily those did you know you can have of ChinaInsight. Authors June have Name______a business relationship with the ChinaInsight delivered directly companies or businesses they discuss. Address______to your mailbox? City/State/Zip______A subscription costs a mere Phone______$24 and brings a full year (10 Email______issues) of new understanding Company______about today’s China, Title______from language to business opportunities. Copyright 2017 ChinaInsight, Inc. All Rights Reserved. www.chinainsight.info news June 2017 / PAGE 3 Teletubbies are b-a-a-c-k! # # 1 # 8 6 Over the hills and far away, those 3 four characters from the late 1990s will # By the numbers # be speaking Putonghua in mainland 10 4 # # China on streaming platforms iQIYI 7 2 and Youku. Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po first arrived in China in 2002 as Consuming Dingding, Dixi, Lala and Po. China is the major market for the 60 new episodes being sold to world markets behavior of by its Canadian owner as there are 226 million children under age 14. Condo- “empty nest lences to the Chinese! ♦ youth” Who or what are “empty nest youth?” Those Chinese born in the 1990s have been known by a number of labels and descrip- Oinker on the move tions: international, nationalistic, mate- A Chinese woman from Shenzhen rialistic. The newest label is “empty nest bought a 9-lb. pet pig after being youth.” The term refers to the group who promised it would not grow big. Well, are single and live alone, usually far from the oinker grew to44 lbs in six months China Briefs their hometowns, and live on their electronic and is now more than 330 pounds. The devices, especially their mobiles, spending woman’s family has had to move six heavily online on high-quality clothes and Robotic piano player times because the oinker’s nocturnal The universal electronic devices. snores disturb the neighbors. The last criticism used by Experts believe the “empty nest youth” move required five people to move the reviewers of lack- feel lonelier than their peers, and their pet alone! Send in the butcher. ♦ luster piano players personal lives are largely confined to their as “robotic” may rented apartments. After long hours of com- have to come up mute, they are exhausted by the time they What’s a day worth? with a better line get home. They are becoming a cause for Wrongfully incarcerated Chinese soon. A 53-finger robot named Teotronica public concern. citizens just got a raise from a paltry just performed with Italian pianist Roberto Taobao, Alibaba’s online shopping site, US$35.57 a day (2016 rate) to a still Presseda at a theatre in Tianjin, Hebei Prov- recently released a report after analyzing the paltry US$38 a day. That works out to ince, on June 3. spending behavior by these “empty nesters.” approximately $13,871 per year. How- Understanding their shopping habits could ever, not every wrongfully detainee lead to potential sales opportunities. is entitled; only those who had their Fox in hen house “freedom infringed” for a full year can A Los Angeles-based Chinese language newspaper reported in early May that “Chi- percent of Chinese households apply for the financial compensation. 12.45 nese corruption fighters” in the U.S. hunting comprise of one person according to a 2015 The highest compensation went to down corrupt Chinese officials seem to be study by the Chinese National Bureau of a man who was wrongly convicted of corrupt themselves. These “hunters” only Statistics, up from 8.3 percent in 2008. a murder and incarcerated for 23 years. He received $403,667 in 2016. work two days a week, gambling in Las It is doubtful $38 a day will stop Vegas the rest of the time. They also try to million fits the “empty nest youth” label 50 the use of dodgy evidence and coerced smuggle money out of China to the U.S. in China. confessions in the Chinese judicial Corrupt officials are “persuaded” to system. ♦ return to China under extreme pressure and 20-39 is the age range of this group. sanctions applied on their family members. What’s a handbag worth? 61 percent of them were born in the 1990s. Christie’s Hong Kong sold a Her- Taste of own medicine China, known for its great firewalls and mès crocodile Birkin bag with 18-car- percent have no savings or are slightly blocking of international networking apps, 21 at white gold and diamond hardware in debt., but willing to spend on better food just got a dose of its own medicine when for US$377,261 - a new record - on and high-quality clothes. Russia blocked its most popular messaging May 31. The intense bidding went on app, WeChat. In early May, the Russian for 10-15 minutes. (There is a six-year communication watchdog blocked WeChat 4 top-tier cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou, waiting list to acquire a new Birkin.) for “not providing contact details for Rus- Shanghai and Shenzen, are where the ma- The Birkin was designed and sia’s register of ‘organizers of information jority of these post-90s singles congregate. named for British singer Jane Birkin distribution on the internet.’” Chinese living in 1984, who expressed the wish for in Russia complained. 10 cities with highest number of empty a bag that is “both elegant and practi- Speculation is WeChat was blocked nest youth: Shenzhen (3.07 M), Beijing (3 cal.” Practical or dreadful waste of because Russia requires Russian user data M), Guangzhou (2.89 M), Shanghai (2.41 money? ♦ M), Chengdu (1.66 M), Hangzhou (1.63 be on servers inside Russia. (China also M), Suzhou (1.45 M), Dongguan (1.42 M), imposes a similar rule.) Zhengzhou (1.39 M), Wuhan (1.27 M). Smutty opera center The new Chinese opera center in Naked IOUs 64 percent of them are males! West Kowloon, Hong Kong, sched- Chinese university students hard up for uled for completion in 2018 is once cash have a new collateral – nude selfies! Online lending platforms, especially within RMB is the average amount each again embroiled in controversy. 5000 QQ group chats, accept nude photos, along empty nest youth spend on Taobao annually, In 2013, its English name, Xiqu with their ID cards and family contact info roughly one month’s salary for them. Centre, was the butt of smutty school- boy jokes as it sounded like si chue as collateral. in Cantonese, which means “woman’s Once the borrower’s nude photo of is the peak time they are spend- 10 p.m. private parts.” When images of its (s)he holding ID card is uploaded, (s)he can ing online! façade by the late Hong Kong-born receive a loan of up to US$2,277 (for the Canadian architect were unveiled at average undergraduate) and will have 36 5 top categories of purchases are: ( from the end of May, the design for its main months to repay the loan in monthly install- largest to lowest) “top-up” services such as entrance, an inverted “V,” once again ments. Doctorate candidates at prestigious recharging mobile accounts, clothing, elec- drew parallels to a woman’s private universities may qualify for larger loans. tronics, snacks and home services, which part! The architect’s vision meant for Interest rates can run as high as 30 percent. includes massage therapists, cleaners, fresh its curvaceous structure to resemble Borrowers who fall behind on payments are produce delivery, etc ♦ lantern light behind a beaded curtain. threatened with messages that their nude You be the judge. ♦ images will be sent to their family. ♦ PAGE 4 / June 2017 health & home www.chinainsight.info Feeling stressed? Take a gong bath! By Elaine Dunn There is no denying that music alters about your problems, a gong bath offers cies that conform to the natural harmony “impediments,” resulting in a relaxed state moods. But what about the sound of gongs? the opposite experience. It uses no words, based on the rotation of Earth, moon and and self-healing. A former New York oncologist began using and requires no effort on the participants. sun, according to the calculations of Hans A typical session runs between 45 sound therapies to help his cancer patients It is particularly helpful for those who find Cousto, a renowned Swiss mathematician minutes to an hour. And as if the prolonged overcome pain and became a gong bath forming and articulating words difficult. and musicologist. A third type, and the most sound of gongs silencing your mental chatter devotee. Your body surrenders to sound, helping to familiar gong used in meditation and sound isn’t enough to get you to give it a try, most clear any “blockage” and may help you find healing, is the symphonic gong. The sym- sessions are followed by refreshments of tea the words you’re looking for. phonic gong is not tuned and has a slightly and chocolate or brownies. Why chocolate? Participants rest on yoga mats with raised surface. When “gonged,” emits a Because chocolate is supposed to help in blankets and eye masks. Some gong bath rich and complex, harmonic overtone. release of endorphins, inducing a relaxed studios will start with a few simple exercises Symphonic gongs range from 20”-80” in and happy state of mind. as warm up for body and mind. Then the diameter! Also used are different types of While there may be a paucity of scien- sound meditation begins with the vibrations mallets for creating different sound effects. tific research on gong baths, anything that of the gongs. Gong “healers” work in differ- As the session progresses, the volume provide release from the constant distrac- ent ways. Some work with one instrument, of the gongs increases and the pace quick- tions of a harried life and that also may some use several. The gongs are played ens. The sound from the gongs promote improve mental clarity, better sleep and softly at first, increasing in volume as the mind-body connection, which result in an increased energy, why not? ♦ session goes on. The playing technique and “internal dialog” that helps your nervous rhythm are changed frequently system release fears and / or emotional Symphonic Gongs

Gongs emit one of the most sonorous sounds of any musical instrument. Their transformational and therapeutic sound is the basis of gong baths, where participants WWTT? are “bathed” is the gongs’ sound waves, cleansing the subconscious mind to bring Why would anyone want to go across a bridge with big gaps about healing. And no, there is no water that you can fall through? How could such a bridge be allowed involved. to exist in the first place? (Answer on p. 13) Sound therapy has been known to im- prove symptoms associated with stress, migraines, depression and lack of concen- tration and focus. Gong baths are quickly gaining a following in Hong Kong. Follow- Tibetan Singing Bowls ing a day’s work in that bustling city, Hong Kongers are now turning to gong baths for achieving a state of relaxation... Different types of gongs are used. One Gong baths use the vibrations of sound type is the Tibetan Singing Bowls, which and frequency emitted from gongs to help have been used for centuries in healing and reduce anxiety, stress and release repressed meditation, and produce a sound similar to emotions. The theory is that the sound a bell when struck with a mallet. The bowls emanating from the gong will infiltrate your are “sung” when the mallet is consistently in outer consciousness and penetrate your contact with the edges of the bowl. Another core, disconnecting you from the superficial type used is the Planet Gong. These range world and all the cacophony associated with from 20”-38” in diameter, and are suspended it. Unlike therapy, which requires talking from stands or frames and tuned to frequen-

Business & Economics Minnesota exports up 5 percent in first quarter First quarterly growth in more than two years

[ST. PAUL, June 5, 2017] – Minnesota also reaching $1.6 billion Exports to the Other major exports were machinery Meat climbed 36 percent with strong companies exported $4.8 billion worth of European Union and to Central and South ($817 million, up 1 percent), electrical growth in South Korea, Japan, China and agricultural, mining and manufactured prod- America were flat. machinery ($638 million, up 3 percent), Canada. Canada ($29 million) and China ucts in the first quarter of 2017, a 5 percent Sales climbed 48 percent to $162 million vehicles ($338 million, no change), plas- ($19 million) helped push up export sales of increase from the same period a year earlier, in the Australia-Pacific region and 17 per- tics ($315 million, up 13 percent), aircraft, stone, plaster, cement by 20 percent. according to figures released today by the cent to $106 million in the Middle East, led spacecraft ($170 million, up 59 percent), The full 2017 first quarter export report Minnesota Department of Employment and by strong sales growth in Saudi Arabia, Ku- food byproducts ($137 million, down 1 can be seen at mn.gov/deed/data/export- Economic Development (DEED). wait, Israel and the United Arab Emirates. percent), meat ($100 million, up 36 percent), stats/. The increase was the first quarterly Canada was the largest national market, stone, plaster, cement ($89 million, up 20 DEED is the state’s principal economic growth for state exports since the fourth with sales of $953 million (down 4 percent). percent) and pharmaceuticals ($87 million, development agency, promoting business quarter of 2014. U.S. exports were up 7 Other countries in the top 10 were down 1 percent). recruitment, expansion and retention, work- percent in the first quarter. Mexico ($617 million, up 11 percent), China Major gains in aircraft, spacecraft ex- force development, international trade and “Strong export activity is helping to ($559 million, up 13 percent), Japan ($291 ports (up 59 percent) were driven by growth community development. ♦ drive a Minnesota economy that is healthy million, up 15 percent), South Korea ($225 in sales to New Zealand ($32 million, up and growing,” said DEED Commissioner million, up 37 percent), Germany ($192 from $150,000) and the Netherlands ($31 Shawntera Hardy. “Along with our tradi- million, up 6 percent), Belgium ($176 mil- million, up 806 percent). tional markets, state companies increasingly lion, down 19 percent), the United Kingdom are finding export opportunities in places ($136 million, up 2 percent), Singapore like the Middle East and the Australia- ($131 million, down 9 percent) and the Pacific region.” Netherlands ($124 million, up 37 percent). State exports to Asia grew 9 percent to Optics, medical instruments led all $1.6 billion in the first quarter, while ex- categories with sales of $883 million, up 2 ports to North America were up 2 percent, percent from a year ago. www.chinainsight.info education June 2017 / PAGE 5 The globalization pace of Confucius Institute hosts Confucius Institutes Minnesota Chinese Speech By Li Jie, China Today, April 24 Contest Students from the Confucius Insti- Minnesota student advances to international tute at University contest in China College Dublin visit Xi’an to learn By Gina Van Thomme, Confucius Institute more about Chi- the University of Iowa. The first round nese culture. of competition then commenced with the speech category. Students in grades 1-8 delivered speeches in Chinese on the topic “Fun with Chinese,” while high school stu- dents spoke on the topic “My Future with Chinese.” Additionally, high school compet- itors completed written cultural trivia exams Elizabeth, from Ireland, is in her late is permeating the daily life of Irish youth. and performed in a talent show, where skills 60s. She adores Chinese fiction, especially In Ireland, Confucius Institutes have including calligraphy, dance and music were works by Yu Hua and Mo Yan. Thanks to the achieved coverage of all age groups in- demonstrated. classes she has been taking at the Confucius cluding students at kindergartens, primary After the competition finished, award Institute for almost a decade, she can read and secondary schools, universities, and ceremonies recognized student achieve- Chinese fluently. Wang Hong, the Chinese community colleges. More than 5,000 pri- ments in language learning, as well as in dean of the Confucius Institute at the Uni- mary and secondary school students attend special categories including “Most Cre- versity of Helsinki in Finland, teaches her Chinese lessons every year. The Confucius ative,” “Best Talent Show,” and “Rising current course. “Elizabeth never misses any Institute at UCD also provides materials for Alexandra Koullick performs a Chinese Star of Chinese.” classes and is passionate about learning the weekly broadcast of the “Hello, China” dance during the talent portion of the Seven winners from the high school Chinese,” Wang Hong said of her student. radio show. Minnesota Chinese Speech Contest. level also were invited to represent Min- Elizabeth is no exception. “The students Courses at the Confucius Institute at the nesota at the Midwest Regional Chinese in my class include young women whose University of Helsinki where Wang works Chinese language learners from through- Bridge Speech Contest, which was held at style of dress reflects their fascination with have expanded from basic language learning out the state gathered for the first-ever Min- Valparaiso University in Indiana on May China, a Finnish girl whose main pastime nesota Chinese Speech Contest hosted by 13. At this competition, Minnesota stu- is Chinese calligraphy, which she executes the Confucius Institute at the University of dents won six awards. Alexandra Koullick, beautifully, and seniors who have been Minnesota on April 22, 2017. a freshman at Blake School, won overall studying for many years.” Wang Hong is More than 130 students in grades 1-12 first place and will advance to represent the somewhat bemused at this phenomenon, but were nominated by their schools to par- central United States at the Chinese Speech nonetheless gratified that, “These students ticipate in the event, which consisted of Contest in Kunming, China, this fall are truly obsessed with learning Chinese.” separate contests for 15 levels of Chinese The Confucius Institute at the University Along with teaching Chinese language language learners. of Minnesota congratulates each participant and calligraphy, and giving classes on tra- The event opened with a keynote for their achievements in Chinese language ditional Chinese poetry and opera, the tens speech discussing the increased popularity learning and sends best wishes to Koullick of thousands of personnel, like Wang, who of Chinese language learning delivered by as she prepares for the Chinese Speech work abroad at Confucius Institutes also Local students are keen to join the Chinese Michael Everson, professor emeritus from Contest! ♦ answer specific questions about Chinese painting course in the Confucius Institute at culture, and social issues. These include, the University of Helsinki. “Why do some Chinese children wear open- crotch pants?”, “Why are the Chinese so Global layout Confucius Institutes do? Integrating and be- keen on soup?” and “What is the Chinese to multidimensional content, such as China “Confucius Institutes have developed ing welcomed into the local community is a government doing about the smog?” media language and Chinese culture. Some at a rate beyond our expectations,” said Xu test for each one. In the process of teaching, The 511 Confucius Institutes, 1,073 of Wang’s students go on to become teachers Lin, the former chief executive of the Con- her unfamiliarity with the local culture has Confucius classrooms and their 2.1 mil- of Chinese at local schools after graduating, fucius Institute headquarters. The Ministry at times put Wang in embarrassing situa- lion attendees in 140 nations have made so propagating the impact of the Confucius of Education initially planned to set up 100 tions. Practice has resolved this problem. Confucius Institutes as a whole a bridge- Institute. Confucius Institutes worldwide within a Owing to Finland’s high altitude, and low builder and medium for East-West cultural More than a decade ago, when products decade. temperatures and short daylight hours in exchanges. They tell the world about China made in China were seen in households To the surprise of all concerned, 46 winter, cultural activities at the Confucius and enhance friendship and cooperation throughout the West, Chinese language, as Confucius Institutes were built around the Institute at the University of Helsinki focus between China and other countries. well as the culture and society behind these world the first year, and the number reached on sunshine and warmth. And because of the products, drew global attention. This led 100 the year after. After 12 years, there are generally introverted nature of the Finnish Born of “Chinese Fever” to the establishment of the first Confucius now 511 Confucius Institutes in 140 nations people, the Confucius Institute gives rein to students’ strengths by laying emphasis on “Ms. Li, how do you distinguish among Institute. Benefiting from the U.K., France, across five continents. the teaching of Chinese writing. big-seal, small-seal, and clerical script styles Germany, and Spain’s experience of pro- The development pattern of Confucius Li was responsible for teaching a chil- of Chinese calligraphy?” was the question Li moting their national languages, in 2004 Institutes has extended far beyond basic dren’s Chinese language class in Ireland. Yiqi, a volunteer in the Confucius Institute China began its own exploration through Chinese language teaching. Originally an Their first impressions of China came al- at University College Dublin (UCD), was establishing non-profit public institutions. associate professor of the English Depart- most entirely from her descriptions. But she asked during a Chinese language lesson. Named Confucius Institutes, they aim to ment at Renmin University of China, Wang gradually realized that simply emphasizing Li was astounded. The student who asked promote Chinese language and culture in has been Chinese dean of the Confucius the “importance” or “meaning” of the teach- the question, a retired man in his 60s, was foreign countries. Institute at the University of Helsinki since ing content did not register with them. They doing research for his book on the evolution As regards the guiding principle of 2014. This has entailed teaching Chinese became far more engaged through contact of Chinese characters, and could not wait to Confucius Institutes, the “Constitution language and holding Chinese-culture- with and use of specifically Chinese items share his opinions with Li. and By-Laws of the Confucius Institutes” themed activities with Chinese teachers and such as opera masks, shuttlecocks, and pa- Some students always carry with them states: “Confucius Institutes devote them- volunteers; also inviting Chinese scholars per fans. “Interest is the key to arousing in the “300 Tang poems,” and engage Li in selves to satisfying the demands of people to Finland to give lectures and exchange children their spirit of exploration,” Li said. discussion whenever they have the chance. from different countries and regions in the ideas. Finnish students are also encouraged “They most enjoy finding out about Chinese This enthusiasm for learning the Chinese world who learn the Chinese language, to to study in China. culture and life through such activities.” language acquainted Li, who got her mas- enhancing understanding of the Chinese “Chinese language teaching is our foun- In 2016, to meet local demands, over ter’s degree in China, with the Chinese language and culture by these peoples, dation, cultural activities expand our impact, 240 Confucius Institutes in 78 countries language learning boom in Ireland. Some to strengthening educational and cultural and academic activities draw the attention throughout the world instituted Chinese young women in their teens even asked Li exchange and cooperation between China of more scholars and intellectuals to China.” culture-related courses such as traditional how they could buy TF Boys – a popular and other countries, to deepening friendly After two years’ experience, Wang is clear Chinese medicine and Tai Chi. Confucius Chinese band – merchandise. Her class relationships with other nations, to promot- about the purpose of her work. Institutes that specialize in textiles, dance also celebrates any birthdays among them ing the development of multiculturalism, so Although one constitution applies to by singing “Happy Birthday” in Chinese. to construct a harmonious world.” all Confucius Institutes, conditions vary It would seem that China’s popular culture in different countries. So what should the Continued on page 10 PAGE 6 / June 2017 history www.chinainsight.info Prelude to war with Japan By Pat Welsh, contributor Japan’s intrusions into China did not just begin in 1937. In the war with China in 1894, Japan sent troops to assault the Weihaiwei Fortress in Shandong province. In 1905, Japan took from the Russians the rights to parts of the Liaodong Peninsula in Manchuria that included the strategic port of Dalian. In 1929, the events of the Great Depres- sion in the United States plunged Japan into an economic crisis that resulted in the rise of a strict authoritarianism and a more aggres- sive foreign imperialism. The United States Japanese invade a village hurt Japan and others by closing its markets, enacting such laws as the Smoot-Hawley mise but in private he ordered the 19th Route Tariff of 1930. At the same time the British Army to fight back in Shanghai. The result Empire, claiming “imperial preference,” was a short but real incident of war that gave preference to imports from its colonies. ended with a truce after 14,000 Chinese and Japan’s export economy nearly collapsed. 3,000 Japanese casualties. The terms of the Japan’s weakened two-party system of gov- truce restricted the ability of Chinese troops ernment failed as the general population’s to operate within Shanghai. This proved sentiments turned toward protectionism and to be highly unpopular with the Chinese away from ideas of free trade. public and it gave Chiang a reputation for In 1930 and 1931 Japan’s growing Map of the Japanese invasion appeasing Japan. presence of military figures in the national would soon move to take responsibility for cials who wanted to maintain their previous The Communists continued to proclaim government led the nation’s ruling clique her own finances. In Tokyo, Japan’s military roles in local government well enough to their continued determination to resist Japan to decide that Manchuria, with its vast felt that this progress would threaten their collaborate with them. but at that time they were not forced to make natural resources, would be the country’s idea that China should be a part of a special Late 1931 found Chiang feeling pressure good that promise as they were ensconced lifeline. Japan should have special and ex- area of Japanese influence. from all sides. There were southerners with- in Jiangxi Province, some 1,000 miles away clusive rights in Manchuria on the Chinese On Sept. 18, 1931, near Shenyang (then in the Kuomintang expressing opposition to from Manchukuo. mainland. called Mukden), a bomb exploded on a rail- many of his policies. The Communists were During Chiang’s attempts to exterminate During the early 1930s the Chinese way line. The Japanese Kwantung Army in well established in rural Jiangxi Province. the Communists in Jiangxi, he seemed to economy under Chiang Kai-shek (蔣介石) Korea declared that the blast had been set off The events in Manchukuo had damaged understand the threat Japan posed to the did begin to improve when some statistics by Chinese subversives and that this neces- Chiang’s prestige and he felt the need to re- stability of his regime. With discretion, his alone are considered. China’s paved roads sitated an immediate military coup to protect store his standing within the country. Chiang government secretly began to prepare for the doubled from 30,000 miles to 60,000 miles. Japanese lives and property in Manchuria. also knew then that fighting the Japanese in war that they knew was coming. On Nov. 29, The nation’s railway system also was up- Without the knowledge and approval of the Manchukuo could be suicidal and it would 1932, the regime established the National graded and extended. civilian government in Tokyo, two Japanese lead to more demands for Chinese territory Defense Planning Council, which undertook Yet serious flaws weak- Kwantung Army officers, that Chiang could not resist. detailed surveys to measure China’s capac- ened China with respect Ishiwara Kanji (石原 莞爾) On Dec. 15, 1931, Chiang took a bold ity to resist Japan in this expected war. One to other nations and Ja- and Itagaki Seishiro, (板垣 gamble aimed at proving that no other critical conclusion stated that China’s ge- pan especially. Dependent 征四郎) engineered a coup. leader in China could take ography made it vulnerable upon the wealth of China’s They justified their invasion his place. He resigned from in the event of a Japanese wealthy urban elites, espe- by declaring that local Man- the government and the invasion. The vast majority cially the heads of the na- churian rebels had revolted military. Within a few days of China’s infrastructure tion’s commercial commu- against the corrupt warlord, the gamble paid off. Se- was on the east coast, the nity along with the support Zhang Xueliang (張學良), nior military Kuomintang part of China that clearly of rural landlords, Chiang’s who had allied himself with leaders declared that they would be invaded. government failed to deal KMT’s Chiang. would not serve under Sun The Council called for with the desperate pov- On the same night as Yat-sen’s (孫中山) son more production facilities erty of China’s more popu- the blast, units of the Japa- Sun Fo (whose Mandarin to be created in China’s in- lous rural communities. In nese army were sent from name is Sun Ke 孫科), as a terior and western provinc- the local countryside, the Japan’s puppet, Henry Puyi Korea into Manchuria via suggested replacement for Japanese invade Manchuria es. Hunan should produce Kuomintang’s party struc- seven army railway trains Chiang. Tax offices prom- more iron and steel, and ture became corrupted as fully loaded with soldiers. ised that they would not transmit any funds more copper and steel should be produced many local officials used tax collections The following day Japan sent four addi- collected to the new government. In several in Szechuan. Chiang also brought in Hans to extort illegal payments from the peasant tional fully loaded troop trains. Within a few cities, public demonstrations demanded that von Seeckt and later Alexander von Falken- farmers. This feature of rural China even- weeks, the Japanese Kwantung Army had Chiang resume his previous positions in hausen from Germany to improve the ability tually gave China’s emerging Communist seized Manchuria. Few in the outside world government. Now in a much stronger politi- of the Kuomintang army. Party a golden opportunity to establish believed the Japanese justifications. Protests cal and military position, Chiang agreed in Next month’s offering will be about the itself in the countryside. Moreover, Chi- from Chiang and the anti-Japanese North- January 1932 to return to office. events leading up to the war with Japan. ♦ ang’s method of dealing with dissidents, east National Salvation Society proved to be After uneasy negotiations, to lessen especially the Communists, was not only fruitless. Unfortunately, no one, including the threat from Japan, Chiang brought in a a record of human rights violations, it also the investigation undertaken by the League former rival, Wang Jingwei (汪精衛) as the About Pat Welsh deprived China of much needed talent for of Nations in 1932, had the ability to counter president of the Executive Yuan, a position In 2009 while teaching English at further economic and social progress. the Japanese invasion. Upon the success of roughly equivalent to that of a prime minis- Sichuan University, Welsh was asked Blissfully ignorant of the deteriorating their coup, the Japanese established a puppet ter but without having any military author- to give a speech where he was intro- situation in the countryside, many observers government of Manchukuo (滿洲國) and ity. Chiang made a decision not to challenge duced to the audience as a “pioneer at that time welcomed China’s progress and installed the previous last Qing emperor, the Japanese occupation of Manchuria and of Chinese American relations” as a saw it as an improvement over the previous Henry Pu-yi, (溥儀) now an adult, as Man- this was to have serious repercussions later. result of his cooperative work in in- system of warlord factionalism. On the other chukuo’s first emperor. It began to encourage Chiang’s opponents. ternational banking during the Deng hand, Japan worried over China’s gradual Over the next few years a series of toxic This opposition was partially motivated Xiaoping era. For more than 65 years, move to reduce foreign privileges and her interactions between Japan’s armies in the by the Shanghai Incident of February 1932 Welsh has been learning Chinese and evolution as a more equal trading partner. In field and civilian politicians poisoned the where fighting had broken out between Chi- has used this knowledge both profes- 1930, Japan had viewed with alarm China’s relationship between Japan and the local nese factory workers and Japanese monks. A sionally and personally to enhance his ability to restore to itself its own tariff au- population. Japanese atrocities in Manchu- Japanese admiral, Rear Admiral Shiozawa understanding of Chinese and Asian tonomy and the ability to charge her chosen kuo, especially the massacre of 3,000 villag- Koichi (塩沢 幸一), already in the Yangtze affairs. Now fully retired, he currently level of import taxes on goods coming into ers of Pingdinshan for “harboring resistance River near Shanghai, sent in Marines and resides in Georgia where he used to China. Shortly thereafter China started to fighters, could not provoke a strong enough bombed the densely populated Shanghai lecture on China to a number of classes replace foreign customs employees with force of resistance inside that puppet state. suburb of Chapei. at Dunwoody High School. native Chinese. This promised that China The Japanese had found enough local offi- In public, Chiang suggested a compro- www.chinainsight.info community June 2017 / PAGE 7

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Landscape Arboretum’s Chinese Garden Phase 2 update By Judy Hohmann, contributor

With the start of more spring-like Left: Calligraphy by Hong weather, Phase 2 of the Chinese Garden at ZHANG the Arboretum is moving forward, follow- ing the successful installation of the Phase 1 Below: Calligrapher Hong Chinese Garden Pathway and viewing area, ZHANG and Asian-inspired plantings in fall, 2016. In early May, construction of the Moon Gate that will grace the entry into the Chinese Garden and Walk commenced. A special design feature is the Chinese calligraphy that will accompany the Moon Gate. The calligraphy, created by Hong Zhang, international artist and master calligrapher, and faculty member at the University of Minnesota. Zhang serves on the community advisory committee for the Chinese Garden & Walk. The inscription for the moon gate translates to “Garden of Harmonious Beauty.” Other Phase 2 elements planned for the Chinese Garden include teak benches for family memorials and tributes, in Asian- inspired designs. (Memorial benches are also offered at other display and specialty gardens.) A dedication ceremony for the newest Phase 2 features of the Chinese Garden is planned for September.♦

Right: Construction at site of Chinese Garden, May 2017 PAGE 8 / June 2017 arts & culture www.chinainsight.info Getting married, Han Chinese style By Elaine Dunn

These are: nomic compensation to her family to express throughout the ceremony, symbolizing her Marriage proposal. No going down on appreciation for their efforts in raising her. purity. After they enter the bridal chamber, bended knee here! Instead, the man’s family The value of the betrothal gifts reflects the the groom will unveil her. sends a matchmaker to the woman’s family financial standing of the man’s family, and • The bridal bed should be a new bed and to initiate a marriage proposal. After the the status that the woman will enjoy when decorated in red linens. (Red is the color of woman’s family accepts the overture, the she becomes part of his family. Once her luck in China.) matchmaker takes the man to the woman’s family accepts the gifts, the couple is of- home so the couple can have tea and chat. If ficially engaged. Chinese wedding dress he is interested in the woman, he will drink Wedding date. Picking an auspicious the tea that is offered. If the woman also date for the wedding is one of the most likes the man, her parents will invite him complicated tasks for the man’s family. to stay for dinner. If neither is interested in They consult a fortuneteller who then checks the other, the two will simply say goodbye the “Tung Shing” – the Chinese “Farmers’ to avoid any embarrassment. Almanac – to find a date that will ensure life- Double happiness character signifies Name and birthday compatibility. If long happiness, harmony and prosperity for wedding the two families agree to the proposal, the the couple, based on the couple’s birthdates man’s family will instruct the matchmaker and names. Some even read the couple’s It’s June, wedding month! In the U.S., to ask for the woman’s name and birth date, faces and palms. Once a date is selected, approximately 2.3 million couples wed each including the exact time of birth. Close rela- the man’s family asks for the approval of year, which breaks down to approximately tives of the same last name were forbidden the woman’s family. 6,200 weddings a day. Most weddings (10. to marry because those who shared the same Wedding ceremony. On wedding 8 percent) take place in the month of June, family name had common ancestry, which day, the groom fetches the bride from her with August (10.2 percent) and September precluded their wedded union. . home and welcomes her to his home. Easy (9.6 percent) coming in a close second and enough? Not quite! The groom third. The average wedding cost in the U.S. has to complete “tasks” assigned in 2016 was is $26,720. by the bridesmaids when he ar- Fans of “Say Yes to the Dress” on TLC rives at the bride’s home. It in- hear many of the brides say they’ve dreamed volves a good-natured haggling of their wedding day (and gown) since they session to “test” the groom’s were little girls. The brides also frequently sincerity. It also may require the mention that they knew “he was the one groom to sing and recite vows. I’d marry the first time we met.” Joining Most important ritual though, one’s life to another in holy matrimony is the tasting of the “requisite is probably a BIG deal in any culture, but flavors – bitter, spicy, sweet and brides in China (except for the nouveau sour. The groom and his grooms- riche), have a very different experience from men have to eat items that bear their U.S. counterparts, and choosing their Wedding couple bowing to each other. those flavors as an assurance of a wedding dress is probably the last thing on smooth marriage. When the tast- their minds. As it is, Chinese brides in the Marriage divination. The couple’s ing task is completed, the groom presents a old days have very little say even over the birthdates and times are checked by a fortu- red packet to the bridesmaids to compensate choice groom. neteller to see if they are compatible, and to them for their “troubles.” And then the bride China’s long history and rich culture predict their shared future. These astrologi- will be “released” to him! mean there are many traditional marriage cal calculations of birthdates are meant to The bride is then taken to the groom’s customs, one of which is that marriage is not prevent rocky relationships and disharmony home and welcomed to his family. Upon only about a couple living together, but that in the marriage. arrival amidst celebratory firecrackers, the their union forms a societal bond between Betrothal gifts. If the fortuneteller couple will perform a series of bows to gain two families. comes back with a “clean bill,” the man’s approval of the marriage from the gods, an- In the old days, marriages went through family will present the woman’s family with cestors and parents. The couple also pours the parents and “go betweens” (read match- gifts in honor of the betrothal. Although and presents cups of tea to the parents and makers). Brides and grooms entered mar- there are no “rules” dictating what the elders as a sign of respect. Then they bow to Wedding kwa of a bride from southern riages without knowing each other. Two gifts should be, there are different regional each other to complete the ceremony. After China. families of equal social status are matched customs to which families may adhere. Of the ceremony, the wedding dinner begins up by the go-betweens and their children course, much also depends on the economic and this final step formalizes their marriage The traditional wedding dress is a one- “matched.” Certain activities were under- levels of the families involved. to the public. piece qipao in the north. In the south, it is taken along the way to guarantee a smooth In Chinese tradition, once the couple a two-piece kwa. Both will be red in color road toward the wedding. marries, the woman becomes a member of Additional Chinese wedding and elaborately embroidered with gold and There are six stages, known as the Six the man’s family. Therefore, the betrothal customs silver dragon and phoenix. The dragon is Etiquettes, in a Han Chinese wedding. gifts, or “bride price,” represent an eco- Besides the Six Etiquettes, there are the Chinese symbol of power since ancient many other customs surrounding Chinese times. The phoenix is the epitome of grace weddings, some of which are still carried and beauty. The combination of dragon and out in modern times. Some of the old ones phoenix symbolizes the balance of male and that are rarely practiced these days include: female power. It is also for attracting “har- Cartoonist Wanted • The day before the wedding, the bride’s monious communication” in the marriage. family will make steamed bread in the shape The groom may wear black or red silk coat Great opportunity to gain experience in creating of gourds for the bride to bring with her to decorated with a dragon robe. her new family on wedding day as symbols cartoons for a monthly newspaper serving the for a good, happy marriage. Chinese wedding taboos community for 14-plus years. • The night before the wedding, an unmar- The bride and groom also observe many ried young boy is invited to sleep in the wedding taboos such as: bridal bed to ensure fertility and the birth • They will not attend a funeral, wake or Must be able to meet deadlines, to take creative of sons to the newlyweds. wedding three months prior to and after initiative and to be a team player. A strong interest in • The groom brings red eggs, cotton thread their own wedding to avoid a clash of luck. Chinese culture and business matters will be an asset. and desserts when he goes to fetch his bride. • Should one of their parents pass away The red eggs and thread are used to remove prior to their wedding date, the wedding will unwanted hair on the bride’s face, signifying either be held within 100 days of the death This is classified as a volunteer position. Send resume the girl becoming a woman. or postponed three years after the death to Greg Hugh at [email protected] or call • Bride and groom perform three bows be- to show respect to the recently deceased fore entering the bridal chamber. First bow parent. 612-723-4873 is for heaven and earth, second is for their • No one is allowed to sleep on the bridal parents and third, for their spouse. bed after it has been installed and blessed • Bride’s head is covered in a red veil in the bridal chamber. ♦ www.chinainsight.info arts & culture June 2017 / PAGE 9

Continued from p.1 Pirates of the South China Sea: Chasing Cheung Po Tsai and LIVE RACING Port Cities NOW THROUGH SEPT 16 Location: Long Gallery, Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM), Central Pier No. 8, Hong Kong Date: Through Oct. 8, 2017

FREE ADMISSION FAMILY FRIENDLY RunAces.com Sure, you have heard of “Pirates of the Tsai as well as the locations where he Caribbean,” but I wager most are unaware was actively based in Hong Kong’s seas that it was not too long ago that the waters are highlighted in this exhibition. Several around Hong Kong and Macau were terri- paintings and objects from the HKMM's tories to some of the most powerful pirates. collections and the Hong Kong Museum The current “Pirates of the South China of Art are displayed. These include a Sea” exhibit at the Hong Kong Maritime 200-year-old oil painting depicting the Museum is designed to change that and put famous nine-day battle at the Island of the Hong Kong buccaneers on the map. Chek Lap Kok and Tung Chung on the This exhibition explores the develop- north shore of Lantau Island, which is close ment of ports and early trade routes in the to the modern-day Hong Kong airport and South China Sea during the 16th to 20th Disneyland. centuries. It provides a fresh angle on This exhibit also features a digital maritime history with its narrative through animation HKMM's 18-metre long mas- the eyes of pirates, with a focus on Hong terpiece “Pacifying the South China Sea,” Kong, then Pearl Delta River and Southern an exquisite Lego model of the local pirate China. By exploring the locations of pirate scene and a giant interactive board game bases such as those of Cheung Po Tsai ( 張保仔) – the most famous of all Hong Kong pirates, and supposedly the basis of a character in “Pirates of the Caribbean 3” – the exhibition began by tracing the development of China’s ports and trading routes from the Ming to the Qing dynasties. The exhibition also sheds light on the evolution of shipbuilding technologies 19th century painting of Chinese troops fighting pirates near Chek Lap Kok, Lantau within the context of sea piracy in the Island, Hong Kong. C1820, oil on canvas. Photo: Hong Kong Maritime Museum South China Sea during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It shows how shipbuilding tech- related to the legend of the pirate Cheung maritime trade in Hong Kong and the Pearl nologies and piracy were inter-influential; Po Tsai. Audiences will have various op- River Delta, and the vital roles ships and shipbuilding technologies were improved portunities to learn more about Hong Kong’s the sea play in Hong Kong’s past, present in order to enhance maritime safety while successful maritime history, as well as about and future. at the same time, the tactics of pirate at- future port developments. The Museum opened in 2005 and has tacks were influenced to counter these close to 1,000 objects displayed in 15 gal- technological innovations. About Hong Kong Maritime leries. It attracts more than 100,000 visitors In addition, this exhibition aims to pro- Museum annually. www.hkmaritimemuseum.org. ♦ vide a deeper understanding of the multiple The Hong Kong Maritime Museum concepts of piracy relative to time, place (HKMM) is an independent, non-profit and culture. For example, Zheng Zhilong registered charity supported by the ship- (鄭芝龍) and Zheng Chenggong (國姓爺) ping industry, the business community, were considered to be pirates in the eyes private individuals and the Hong Kong SAR of the Qing government. However, they Government. It is a vibrant cultural institu- were feted as heroes within the communi- Carved and polychrome wooden figure tion dedicated to preserving, collecting and ties of Fujian. of Zheng Chenggong. Early to mid-Qing displaying objects that tell the story about The legends of local hero Cheung Po Dynasty. PAGE 10 / June 2017 science & technology www.chinainsight.info China's space telescope to HOST FAMILIES NEEDED observe pulsars in Milky Way Host a Chinese student and make a difference... BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhua) -- China will accurate astronomical clock in the universe. Enrich their experience and enhance your own! soon launch a space telescope, the Hard Scientists believe they can use pulsars as X-ray Modulation Telescope (HXMT), to "lighthouses" to help navigation in future w As a host family you share observe pulsars in the galaxy of Milky Way, interplanetary or interstellar travel. according to Chinese scientists. British astronomers Jocelyn Bell Burnell American culture with a "We are still not clear about the interior and Antony Hewish discovered the first student from China and of pulsars," says Zhang Shuangnan, lead pulsar in 1967. They nicknamed the strange Wanted: provide them more than they scientist of HXMT and director of the Key signal LGM-1, for "little green men." It was could learn in a classroom. Laboratory of Particle Astrophysics of the not until a second pulsating source was Chinese Academy of Sciences. found in a different part of the sky that the ONLINE w Learn about their culture, English Language Teachers "Current physical laws cannot describe "LGM hypothesis" was abandoned. explore the differences and well the substances in the state of a pulsar, To date, scientists have discovered develop new connections. since no lab on Earth can create a density more than 2,000 pulsars. The Milky Way is as high as a pulsar. So we have to conduct thought to have around 100 million of them, Would you like to help Chinese students in more observations of pulsars," Zhang says. a figure obtained by estimating the number Globalgrades Learning 6-12 polishAlliance their (GLA) spoken andis a writtenTwin Cities based organization that servesEnglish as a skillsfacilitator (and, occasionally,to assist historystudents and from China that want to study A pulsar is so strange that when the first of stars that have undergone supernova in theliterature)? United WeStates. are hiring To native ensure English-speaking that these students obtain the best one was discovered, it was mistaken for explosions. experienceteachers possible, to teach ESL GLA (different seeks levels) to place or high the students with host families. signals from aliens. There are still many With their super strong gravitational The lengthschool ofU.S. their history stay or literature. could vary from a few months to a full school year mysteries about this kind of star. and electromagnetic fields and high density, and includeTeach from high our schoolTwin Cities and cloud-classroom college studentssetup of both sexes. It is found to be a highly magnetized, pulsars are regarded as natural laboratories or your home office. Teaching will usually take rotating neutron star, which emits two beams of extreme physical conditions. Since weplace recognize in the evenings that (6-10 hosting p.m.), early a student mornings from China may place a financial of electromagnetic radiation. This radiation For instance, the magnetic field on the burden(6-8 on a.m.), many or weekends.families, Number we will of provide hours are some financial reimbursement can be observed only when the beam of surface of a neutron star is at least a million flexible. Rates are from $15 to $40 per hour but expect a family to be a host because of the mutual cultural exhchange based on the course requirements and the emission is pointing toward Earth. It is much times that created in the most advanced lab. that bothteacher’s will experience.receive and not just the financial aspect. the same as how a lighthouse can be seen In addition, neutron stars might be particle only when the light is pointed at an observer. accelerators with the highest energy in the Teaching experience is required. Teaching license is preferred, but not necessary. To learn more about being a host family, contact Richard He at A neutron star is the collapsed core of known universe. Scientists could study (612) 987-6540If interested, or please email, contact [email protected] Richard at 612-987-6540 or [email protected].. a large star. Neutron stars are the smallest many phenomena that they cannot repli- and densest stars known to exist. Though cate on Earth by observing neutron stars, they typically have a radius of 10 km, they Zhang says. can have a mass about twice that of the Sun. Lu Fangjun, chief designer of the pay- A neutron star is so dense that one tea- load of HXMT, says long-time monitoring spoon of its material would have the mass of pulsars could help unravel the mystery of of a mountain over 3,000 meters high on their energy sources. 球 知 教 育 集 团 Earth, or about 900 times the mass of the Scientists still don't fully understand Great Pyramid of Giza. Most of the basic how the pulses of neutron stars and the models for these objects imply that they strong magnetic fields around them are Education are composed almost entirely of neutrons. formed. China's new space telescope might Neutron stars have very precise intervals yield some clues, says Song Liming, deputy The globalization pace of between pulses that range from milliseconds chief designer of the ground application Confucius Institutes to seconds. They are regarded as the most system of HXMT. ♦ Continued from page 5 and performance, music, food and tea cul- raises demands, and the Chinese contingent and angrily refuted its content. Wang just two shifts of volunteers and many other ture have also been globally set up. Adjust- that offers cooperation and support. Take laughed it off, remarking that all we can staff rotations. “This actually increases the ing to local conditions is the way for each academic activities as an example. The two do is to mind our own business, as people difficulties in our work,” she said. Every Confucius Institute to take root and gain parties jointly decide on activities and invite who understand us know what we have group of workers needs training in order development in its host country. researchers specializing in topics relating to really done. to be familiar with the work right from the China or East Asia to present their views and Next crossroad start. Li has returned to China after finishing Firm steps override doubts hold academic debates. Teachers of Chinese “Confucius Institutes have now reached her one-year voluntary work, and felt reluc- As dean of her Institute, public relations language and culture classes – fundamental a crossroad. We must seriously consider how tant to say goodbye when the time came to are integral to Wang’s work. Although full courses at Confucius Institutes – do their they are going to develop and what kind of leave. “Just as I started to feel attuned to of trepidations when she first arrived, after utmost to teach students the most effective path we should take.” This was the comment the work there, I had to leave. I knew and gradually finding her way Wang has won learning methods, and to present a multidi- Xu made on the development of Confucius had achieved a rapport with all my students. recognition and praise from local partici- mensional image of Chinese society. Institutes after a review of the past decade. But a new teacher needs to start from the pants. “Their take on the actual situation is “The so-called ‘China threat’ theory is According to the Confucius Institutes very beginning while carrying on with the what really counts,” she said. a false proposition,” Li said. Nobody takes development plan, their global layout will teaching plan. This is a challenge for both When Confucius Institutes were first it into consideration in their actual work. be basically completed by 2020. This will teacher and students,” she said. established, fears were sometimes voiced As teachers and volunteers assigned from entail unifying quality standards, test certi- Localization of teachers has been based on the so-called “China threat” China, Wang and Li must do their best to ac- fications, and the appointment and training frequently mentioned over the past two theory. Over the past three years, Confucius complish their teaching plan and at the same of teachers; realizing multilingualism and years in connection with the development Institutes at the University of Chicago, time hold various cultural activities. As they broad coverage of international Chinese of Confucius Institutes. However, taking University of Pennsylvania, and Stockholm are apart from their families, they devote language textbooks; establishing a wide- Finland as an example, no more than 10 University have successively shut down. all their time to their work at the Institute, ranging global Chinese language and culture Finnish teachers hold local Chinese teaching The international community has become a yet still feel there are not enough hours in communication system with comprehensive certification. Localization is hence a long- breeding ground for rumors and controversy the day. “These rumors themselves perhaps functions, and making Chinese one of term, complicated project. “At the moment about Confucius Institutes in this regard. reflect the general misapprehensions about the languages learned and spoken widely at least, it’s a difficult proposition,” Wang Wang wholeheartedly rebuts such rheto- China,” Li said. throughout the world. said. Guaranteeing the quality of assigned ric. In fact, the procedure for establishing “Confucius Institutes are a bridge to Teaching staff are integral to the future teaching staff, therefore, seems a particu- a Confucius Institute requires a foreign the Chinese language and culture, as well development of Confucius Institutes. At larly important task. university or relevant educational institu- as providers of learning resources.” Li present, these teachers are mainly profes- Wang has lately been pondering another tion to first apply to the Confucius Institute believes that Institutes enact an irreplace- sionals and volunteers assigned from China. matter. She hopes to provide educational headquarters. Upon receiving approval, the able role, because they offer face-to-face, All, including Chinese deans, sign contracts and consulting courses for local enterprises local and Chinese parties jointly run the in- experiential learning. Interaction between valid for one to four years. Most return to in Finland, so forging more links between stitute. The Chinese dean is responsible for workers at Confucius Institutes and people their original posts in China when they fin- the Confucius Institute and the local com- Confucius Institutes under their governing in local communities evokes a tangible, ish their overseas assignments. Then groups munity. This will, at the same time, make Council, and both Chinese and foreign deans touchable China. of newly-selected teachers go to Confucius more funds available, something that is also are jointly in charge of the Institute’s daily After reading a newspaper article ar- Institutes around the world. relevant to the future sustainable develop- operations and management. bitrarily attacking Confucius Institutes, During her two-year posting at the ment of Confucius Institutes. ♦ It is generally the foreign dean who Wang’s Finnish colleague showed it to her Confucius Institute, Wang has witnessed www.chinainsight.info books June 2017 / PAGE 11 “Out of China: How the Chinese Ended the Era of Western Domination” by Robert Bickers

Reviewed by Peter Gordon, Asian Review of Books, May 8, 2017 The Allies would soon start to forget that China puts the narrative, or their version of Author: Robert Bickers China had been on their side in the Great it, which Bickers calls “partial, self-serving Publisher: Harvard University Press War. They did not even fly China’s flag and incendiary.” He writes, without evident Publication date: August 2017 during their celebrations in Tianjin’s British irony, that Hardcover: 576 pages concession. The great War Memorial that The story of the foreign presence in would be unveiled on the Bund at Shanghai China in the twentieth century, as much as Robert Bickers is currently professor in 1924 failed to recognize China’s dead. in the nineteenth century or in any part of of history at the University of Bristol. Bickers’ way with words does not the China’s modern history, is too important He has written extensively on Chi- spare the Chinese. His description of a rural today to be left in the hands of the Chinese nese history and is the author of the massacre in 1922 goes: party-state and this approved script. highly acclaimed “Empire Made Me” So they killed, killed, killed their ene- Bickers notes a new nationalism char- and “The Scramble for China.” mies — priests, Christians, spies, landlords, acterized by anger. “Being effectively soldiers, clan leaders; they killed to settle equipped with the facts might help us scores and pay back the perpetrators of ear- understand the roots of that rage.” When lier killings; they killed to demonstrate their mentioning Chinese President Xi Jinping’s commitment to the cause; they killed out of 2012 promise of a “China dream”, Bickers fear of not proving their commitment to it; writes that “The China dream is grounded they killed to ensure none would survive to in this story of an unrelenting Chinese exact a later revenge; they killed to show nightmare. We need to acknowledge that, the hesitant that the victims no longer had and understand it, but we do not need to Western commentators are wont to ness and obliviousness by Western powers any power over them; they killed because believe it.”♦ complain that China doesn’t always seem and individuals; it might be deadening if the sanguine public theatre of the embattled committed to “international norms”. Robert he were not such a talented writer. Bickers revolutions demanded it; and they killed Bickers’ new book “Out of China: How the doesn’t even start his account until 1918— simply because they could. Chinese Ended the Era of Western Domi- well after the Opium Wars, the burning of While the British and Americans take About the reviewer nation” helps explain why: “international the Summer Palace and the Boxer repara- center-stage for the most part, other (Euro- norms” were used for a century to justify tions—with the end of World War I, a year pean) countries are covered in some detail Peter Gordon is the editor of The Asian encroachments on Chinese sovereignty. when a modern China had considerable as well. Bickers in particular devotes not Review of Books and founder of Hong This story is hardly unknown, of course reason to believe that it would join the com- inconsiderable space to the Soviet presence Kong’s online bookseller Paddyfield. and it’s worth asking why it bears repeating. munity of nations as an equal; but realpolitik in China after the establishment of the PRC, He set up and was the inaugural Chair One reason, perhaps, is just because out of reigned at Versailles and the Chinese were drawing parallels—plus ça change…—to of the Man Asian Literary Prize and sight leads to out of mind. Another reason sold out to the Japanese. previous “foreign experts” and extraterri- was one of the founders and organizers might be that when accounts of foreign Bickers covers everything from politics toriality until the Soviets were themselves of the original Hong Kong Interna- interference are limited, as they can be, to and war to classical art and popular culture, ejected some years later. Although Bickers tional Literary Festival. the Opium War and some bad behavior in Shanghai to Chongqing, Hong Kong and discusses Japan—how could one not?—the He has also been involved in interna- the concessions in Shanghai, it is easier to Shamian Island, extra-territoriality to the country seems not to be quite the point of tional trade and investment develop- hold that these relatively isolated incidents “yellow peril” and runs up to the late 1997 the book. ment, and set up the Russian Trade are so far in the past that they should not Handover of Hong Kong. None of this China’s own multiple failings in this Association (a chamber of commerce) have any bearing on relations today. “The would have the effect it has were it not for period apart, it is hard to read “Out of China” in Hong Kong in 1994. He wrote regu- era when China was subject to foreign the quality of prose. The tone is conversa- as a Caucasian and not end up embarrassed. lar editorial columns for Hong Kong's invasion … has been over for 70 years. Is tional; rigor is conveyed with simple words. As salutary as that reaction may be, it is not English-language dailies for several it not simply history, done and dusted with Bickers has an innate sense of rhythm. The in fact Bickers’ objective, or at least not years and is co-author of the recently now?” ask Bickers, entirely rhetorically, in pages of events, names, descriptions and his primary one. “Nationalism matters in published “The Silver Way: China, his introduction. explanations roll along, the commentary all China,” he writes in the introduction, “and Spanish America and the Birth of Glo- Bickers’ 400 pages paint a picture of al- the more trenchant for being stated matter- what matters in China matters to us all.” balisatiion, 1565-1815.” most universal and continual disingenuous- of-factly: He is as concerned about the uses to which

Opinion sive Economic Zone and the Continental avoid dangerous maritime and air activities Shelf that all states shall, on the premise that should be encouraged. China’s Ministry of Practical measures needed they comply with international law and the Defense has established a direct commu- laws and regulations of the People’s Repub- nication mechanism with the US, Russia, to avoid conflict at sea lic of China, enjoy the freedom of navigation the ROK and Vietnam. China has also con- in and flight over its EEZ. About 100,000 ducted extensive dialogues and consulta- By Zhou Bo, China Daily, June 4, 2017 ships transit through the South China Sea tions with many other countries. In 1998, each year and no countries have complained China and the US established a consultation At the last Shangri-La Dialogue and at states have resolved to settle their disputes that the freedom of navigation of their ships mechanism to strengthen military maritime other workshops in the Asia-Pacific region, through negotiations between states directly has been affected. So there is no need to safety, and have conducted a few exercises how to enhance maritime confidence- concerned in accordance with international turn freedom of navigation into an issue on CUES. And Beijing and Tokyo have held building measures or prevent conflict at sea laws and the 1982 UN Convention on the and impose one country’s understanding many rounds of consultations on establish- have always been hot topics. Law of the Sea. In fact, last month China of this concept upon others. We hope those ing a maritime and air liaison mechanism. But security on land, especially in and the Philippines started the first round countries honor their promise of not taking We hope Japan will demonstrate flexibility Northeast Asia, has worsened and become of direct bilateral talks on the South China sides and stop conducting joint patrol or and work with China for an early conclusion more serious than maritime security. Quite Sea issue, and senior diplomats of China exercises in the sensitive waters. of the mechanism. a few countries have maritime disputes with and ASEAN agreed to a framework for the International rules and norms must be The Chinese military has attended all the more than one country. However, the current Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. observed. All countries must implement meetings on maritime security cooperation situation in the East China Sea and the South Military activities near the coast of a the 1972 Convention on the International under the ASEAN Regional Forum and China Sea is by and large stable. country which could consider them un- Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus But how to avoid conflict at sea? friendly or even hostile should be reduced and member states of the Western Pacific its Eight Dialogue Partners. And Beijing is Territorial disputes must be resolved and avoided. This is the most direct and Naval Symposium should honor the 2014 ready to explore the possibility of setting up through peaceful negotiation. China not effective way of avoiding a conflict at sea. Code of Conduct for Unplanned Encounters a China-ASEAN defense communication only upholds this principle but also prac- Although there are different interpretations at Sea (CUES) and avoid collision. And mechanism. We believe all these consul- tices it. China has resolved its land bor- of UNCLOS, it clearly stipulates that in ex- the Chinese and the US militaries should tations, dialogues and cooperation have der disputes issues with 12 neighboring ercising their rights of freedom of navigation further enhance the “Mutual Notification promoted maritime security and will help countries which accounts for 90 percent and overflight, states shall have due regard Mechanism of Major Military Activities” avoid maritime conflict. ♦ of China’s land border. China has also re- to the rights and duties of the coastal state and “Rules of Behavior for Safety of Mari- solved maritime delimitation in the Beibu and shall comply with the laws and regula- time and Air Encounters” to avoid conflict Zhou Bo is a senior colonel and director of secu- Gulf with Vietnam. On the South China Sea tions of that coastal state. As early as 1998, and confrontation. rity cooperation, Office for International Military issue, China and some ASEAN member China made clear in its Law on the Exclu- Dialogues and exercises designed to Cooperation, Ministry of National Defense. PAGE 12 / June 2017 books www.chinainsight.info Parallel Universes By Chang Wang, contributor

Editor’s note: This article is the Foreword to “Parallel Universes: Essays and Conversations” by Chang WANG, a regular China Insight contributor. The book will be published in fall, 2017.

Life is also an arrangement of particles. In parallel universes, or multiverse, any arrangement has to repeat. Therefore, somewhere out there, there is at least one duplicate me at this precise moment, at least one duplicate me at any precise moment in the past, and at least one duplicate me at any precise moment in the future. From a multiverse perspective, time is an illusion: there is no past, no present, and no future. We do not born, live, or die. All universes parallel, all matters transient, and all sentient beings immortal. For the past decades, I travel between which someone can take rebirth after death: In a parallel universe, once upon a time, different time zones and parallel worlds: rebirth under the sway of karma and destruc- I was a Tibetan mastiff, wandering around from East Asia to North America, and to tive emotions, and rebirth through the power the Sacred City of Lahsa, enjoy the brightest Western Europe. In the past and present, si- of compassion and prayer. Regarding the sunshine of the Land of the Snow, and fol- multaneously, I inhabit in parallel universes: first, due to ignorance negative and positive lowing the footsteps of the faithful pilgrims law, business and the arts. karma are created and their imprints remain who walked and prostrated thousands of In the first chapter of my current life, on the consciousness. These are reactivated miles from the rural area to the Seat of His I was trained as an artist and art critic in through craving and grasping, propelling Holiness the Dalai Lama. Beijing. When I left my hometown and my us into the next life. We then take rebirth In a parallel universe, once upon a time, comfort zone for a second graduate degree involuntarily in higher or lower realms. I was a mouse in a Buddhist temple in quietly on the mountaintop and look down at in art history in America, I was immediately This is the way ordinary beings circle Southern China, busy after dark, and hiding the river below. When the heavy snow falls, deprived of a cultural identity. I could easily incessantly through existence like the turn- in plain sight during the day, listening to the small animals take refuge under my arms. equate with Chinese artist Chen Danqing ing of a wheel. On the other hand, superior peaceful chanting of the “Diamond Sutra.” In a parallel universe, once upon a time, who summarized for all diaspora intellectu- Bodhisattvas, who have attained the path of In a parallel universe, once upon a time, I was a Russian writer, and because all real als - “all of your earlier accomplishments - seeing, are not reborn through the force of I was an Italian chef in Firenze. I master the Russian people are philosophers, I am a your previous life - count nothing in the new their karma and destructive emotions, but Toscani cuisine. I turn deceptively simple philosopher too. I write novels, novellas, world. You have to reborn.” Chen ultimately due to the power of their compassion for ingredients – flour, cheese, vegetables, novelettes, short stories, essays, pamphlets, chose to go back to China to reconnect with sentient beings and based on their prayers mushrooms and fresh fruit into exquisitely limericks, epigrams and poems. My lengthy, his previous life. I chose to stay and reborn to benefit others. They are able to choose profound art of delicacy, completed by a sip psychological and sophisticated works ex- as an attorney and counselor at law. their place and time of rebirth as well as of Chianti Superiore. plore such themes as depression, poverty, I’ve always wondered whether my re- their future parents. In a parallel universe, once upon a time human manipulation and morality. They location and rebirth were force majeure, or As an ordinary sentient being, I came to I was Wang Chang 王昶 (1724 – 1806) in were never published. unconsciously self-driven by a strong sense this present life from my previous lives and Qing Dynasty, known as one of the “Seven In a parallel universe, once upon a time, of finding. Certain elements of Midwest, take rebirth again after this life. Like trillions Literati in Central Wu.” I excelled in the I was a Pansori drummer in Korea. Pansori mysterically, appear to be more familiar of human beings, gaziillions of sentient be- is the Korean folk version of and comforting than those of my hometown. ings, I am recycling in the wheel of time. Blues, a musical storytelling This constant feeling of déjà vu cannot be Buddhist teachings on impermanence performed by one sorikkun mistaken as daily routine. It is inward, ret- and reincarnation has a scientific equivalent (singer) and one gosu (drum- rospective and nostalgic. – quantum physics, particularly the theory of mer). I play a barrel drum On the other hand, when I travel from parallel universe and multiverse. Physicist called buk. The singer plays west to east, commonality fades, and fa- Brian Greene believes that the universe we the central role through her miliarity morphs into surrealism. I fall into are in is infinite. Since there are only so singing, words, and body lan- the same dilemma pondered by Yung Wing many ways matter can arrange itself within guage while I, the drummer, (1828-1912), the first Chinese to graduate that infinite universe, so eventually, matter play an accompanying role from a U.S. university: “Would it not be has to repeat itself and arrange itself in simi- by providing the rhythm and strange, if an Occidental education, continu- lar ways. If the universe is infinitely large, shouting words of encourage- Pansori ally exemplified by an Occidental civiliza- it is also home to infinite parallel universes. ment to add to the passion of tion, had not wrought upon an Oriental such Greene argued: “Imagine a deck of cards, if the performance. My favorite a metamorphosis in his inward nature as to you shuffle that deck, there’s just so many Imperial Examination and was awarded a madang (story), of course, is “Chunhy- make him feel and act as though he were orderings that can happen. If you shuffle that high rank civil service post. But how I will angga.” a being coming from a different world, deck enough times, the orders will have to be remembered are on the 46 volumes of In October 2013, I interviewed Maestro when he confronted one so diametrically repeat. Similarly, with an infinite universe scholastic works on epigraphy, textology Dario Fo, Italian comedian and 1997 Nobel different?” and only a finite number of complexions of and poetics. Literature Prize Laureate. His wife for 69 The explanation ultimately dwells on matter, the way in which matter arranges In a parallel universe, once upon a time, years, Franca Rame, just passed away a few the very existence of parallel universes, or itself has to repeat.” I was a beluga whale, a slow swimmer and, month ago. The maestro and I discussed reincarnation, or both. Some of the combinations of the funda- nicknamed by humans, a “sea canary” due politics, art, love and death. I explained Buddhists believe there are two ways in mental ingredients of matter repeat itself. to my high-pitched twitter. I am highly Buddhist theory of reincarnation to him. He sociable and often join small cooperative listened carefully, paused for a long time, groups of belugas to find food. We like to and murmured, “I just wish I had met Franca chase each and rub against each other. I in my past life, and will meet her again in have a great degree of curiosity. I play with my next life.” objects I find in the water: wood, plants and I know he had and he will, and I know Be Your Own Boss! bubbles I have created. we have met in our previous lives, and we In a parallel universe, once upon a time, China Insight is seeking a self-motivated individual to sell will meet again in our future lives. ♦ advertising space for our newspaper. China Insight has I was a white elephant in Southeast Asia. I been publishing for 15 years. The ideal individual we seek dwell in dry thorn-scrub forests and feed must be passionate about our mission, be resourceful, myself leaves, twigs, fruit, bark, grass and roots. At midday, I rest under trees and may creative and capable of working independently. We offer Chang Wang is chief research and doze off while standing. I travel with my a very generous commission structure and you get to academic officer of Thomson Reuters family, never lost. set your own hours. and adjunct professor at the Univer- In a parallel universe, once upon a time I sity of Minnesota, Metropolitan State Contact Greg Hugh at 612-723-4872 or email was an evergreen pine tree. My bark is thick University, and China University of [email protected] and scaly, my branches are produced in a Political Science and Law. Wang cur- very tight spiral but appearing as a ring of rently resides in St. Paul with his family. branches arising from the same point. I stand www.chinainsight.info society June 2017 / PAGE 13 Would you eat here? By Elaine Dunn Wanted:

Some people have fetishes and some ture toilet bowls, bathtubs or sinks. Drinks are just weird. You can decide under which arrive in pretty urinals. ONLINE category this themed restaurant and its If you have to use the “facility,” you will customers fall. have to use the traditional squat toilet! The English Language Teachers Modern Toilet is a three-storey restau- western style toilets are only for restaurant rant in Taipei, Taiwan. It started out as an seating! ♦ ice cream shop selling poo-shaped soft ice Would you like to help Chinese students in cream served in the infamous Asian squat toilet. The restaurant now has an entire grades 6-12 polish their spoken and written toilet- and poo- themed menu ranging from English skills (and, occasionally, history and Italian pasta to hot pots to desserts. literature)? We are hiring native English-speaking The restaurant can accommodate 100 teachers to teach ESL (different levels) or high diners who sit on toilet bowls and eat off school U.S. history or literature. giant sinks. Napkins are self-served – rolls Teach from our Twin Cities cloud-classroom setup of toilet paper hung on the wall above the tables. Food items are served out of minia- or your home office. Teaching will usually take place in the evenings (6-10 p.m.), early mornings (6-8 a.m.), or weekends. Number of hours are flexible. Rates are from $15 to $40 per hour based on the course requirements and the teacher’s experience. Teaching experience is required. Teaching license is preferred, but not necessary.

Above: Modern Toilet If interested, please contact Richard at 612-987-6540 or [email protected]. Left: Poo ice cream

Below: Toilet bowl seating

球 知 教 育 集 团

WWTT? This “gapped” and purposefully dangerous bridge is another tourist gimmick in one of Chongqing’s scenic spot. It opened to the public just in time for the May Day holiday. It is built right off the side of a cliff and visitors must hop from plank to plank to get across. Miss the plank and you’ll drop to the abyss below, attached to a safety wire. That’s putting a lot of faith into the safety wire!

Adult bad behavior The cantilevered structure in the background is another tourist By Elaine Dunn attraction – a glass-bottomed bridge! Do not let the past few months’ “feel Where are the donut eaters when you good” stories lull you into believing every- need them???? ♦ What were they thinking? one is kind-hearted in China! A grown-up Beijing man was unable to control his bad behavior early June when the street vendor mistakenly gave him a bun in the wrong flavor. Instead of requesting the correct flavor civilly, he chose to dump the vendor’s buns on the street and began stomping on them, crushing every single one while berating the vendor. The poor vendor was seen quietly cleaning up the mess. What is most distressing was there were bystanders around who chose to do nothing about the situation. One netizen commented, “This man should be sent to N. Korea to attend a hard labor re-education camp ran by fat boy with stylish haircut!”

Read ChinaInsight online www.chinainsight.info PAGE 14 / June 2017 government & politics www.chinainsight.info Post-election: the Carrie Lam reality By Elaine Dunn

“7” sounds like Lam gave up her British nationality in bridge between the central government and a lewd term in 2007 when she was appointed Secretary for the Hong Kong people. But Lam will be a Cantonese, so it Development. (Hong Kong’s Basic Law tilted bridge. She will only tell us what Bei- takes no stretch states the chief executive shall be “a Chi- jing wants, and won’t reflect what the people of the imagi- nese citizen with no right of abode in any want to the communist regime," Joshua nation for the foreign country.” Section 13 of the Chief Wong, one of the chief student leaders of crop of jokes Executive Election Ordinance also states the Umbrella Revolution, told an Australian doing the cyber that “a chief executive candidate cannot newspaper. She is “a nightmare for Hong rounds! have right of abode in any foreign country.”) Kong” as far as Wong is concerned. A day after However, Lam can reside in the UK through Lam had pledged to address “the aspi- Lam promised her husband’s nationality status – a point of rations and ‘unhappiness’ of young people to “heal politi- contention in the election as she was accused with greater opportunities and upward cal divisions,” of making a false statement concerning her mobility” during the election campaign. the police an- right to foreign abode when submitting her However, she had offered no specifics on nounced nine application. Lam’s husband and sons have how to unify society, improve livelihoods pro-democracy British nationality and can reside in the UK. and the city’s troubled governance. activists from Her 37-year career within the Hong So far, her cabinet picks have been un- Carrie Lam (second from right in light suit) flanked by husband to her the 2014 Um- Kong government started immediately remarkable: “a pale, male and stale line-up right and son, to her left. brella Revolu- upon leaving school in 1980. She has held of career bureaucrats,” was how an editor at tion would be positions in many government departments the South China Morning Post labeled her prosecuted. and is viewed as intelligent, hard-working team. Fourteen of the 16 ministerial posts Back in June 2015, the Brookings Insti- This immediately incurred outrage among and “able to push controversial government are promotions from within the civil service tute in Wash., D.C., published a piece titled, the pro-democracy supporters. Some policies,” which gained favor in Beijing, and ranks, with only one woman in the pack. “Why Hong Kong’s next election really thought the timing was a calculated move labeled a bully by others. However, seasoned politicos can also keep matters.” Its opening paragraph stated the by the current chief executive C.Y. Leung, In 2000, she became the director of things running and offer stability, which is 2017 vote for a new chief executive “offers Lam’s unpopular boss, to sabotage his Social Welfare Department. In 2003, she worth something in uncertain times, though a narrow pathway for improving democratic successor, leaving her to face his same un- became the permanent secretary for Hous- there is always room for “new thinking.” governance.” popular fate. There are many who believe ing, Planning and Lands and, in 2006, was Lam had said she will not restart discus- On March 26, 2017, the former Chief she will continue on the unpopular path of appointed the permanent secretary for Home sions on political reform, but will start with Secretary Carrie Lam became Hong Kong’s her former boss, or in the vernacular, CY Affairs. In 2007, she was the secretary for “resolving the simpler, less controversial fifth chief executive. She will begin her five- 2.0, to please Beijing. Development. From 2012-2017, she was the issues.” year term beginning July 1, exactly 20 years So what is Carrie Lam’s background? most popular official and became the chief Hong Kongers are shrewd. They un- to the day after Britain handed Hong Kong The 59-year-old is a career civil servant. secretary for Administration, before she derstand the real government is located in back to China. Lam was long believed to She will be the first woman leader of Hong resigned to run for chief executive. Beijing and that local politics’ role is to find be Beijing’s choice, and widely believed to Kong. She came from humble beginnings. From 2013 -2015, she headed the task a way to deal with that! Above all, most have no interest in furthering democracy (or Her father was a Shanghainese immigrant force on Constitutional Development. Dur- Hong Kongers are practical. They would universal suffrage) in Hong Kong. who worked on ships, and her mother never ing the 2014 Umbrella Revolution, she just like her to tackle her campaign pledge: Almost as soon as the “election” (where received a formal education. She grew up was most unyielding and uncompromising rein in home prices, modify the city's tax only 0.03 percent of Hong Kong’s registered with her four siblings in a subdivided flat in her discussion with the student leaders. code and bolster the economy and rebuild voters are able to cast a ballot, China Insight, that had no flush toilet. She holds a sociol- Her abrupt ending of the meeting with the Hong Kong’s status as a top-notch trading April 2017, p. 15) results were announced, ogy degree from the University of Hong student activists claiming it was “impossible hub and financial center. After all, money social media lit up with unflattering jokes Kong. While studying at Cambridge Univer- to have a constructive dialogue” then does talks. ♦ and nicknames for Lam based on the num- sity, she met her husband, a mathematician. not endear her to the pro-democracy sect. ber of votes she got (777). The number The couple has two adult sons. "Theoretically, the chief executive is a Slowly but surely, Chinese Americans are getting political By Chris Davis, China Daily USA, May 25, 2017

The Committee of 100, a group of News Hour on March 31. could be Democrat or Republican - then that Being a 501c3 charitable organization, it prominent Chinese Americans founded in Lam recently joined the board of 80- would mean something." cannot endorse political candidates or tell 1990 by I.M. Pei and Yo Yo Ma, has two 20, an organization that he says "is trying Lam said their group researches the can- people how to vote. goals: to advance China-US relations and to promote political maturity among Asian didates of any race - federal, state or even The other half is the political action ensure full inclusion of Chinese Americans Americans, not just Chinese Americans". local - sending each a survey (in the last committee, which does the research and into American society. Asian Americans, he said in a phone two presidential races Obama and Clinton endorsing. At their annual gala in Washington last interview, are the fastest-growing minority actually returned the surveys 80-20 sent to 80-20 was founded in 1996 - "not to say week, Ambassador Cui Tiankai commended group. them). Delegates then meet to decide who this was all because of them", Lam said - but the group for making good use of its "unique "There are more than 17 million Asian to endorse. in 1992, Asian Americans voted for the first edge as a cross-border, cross-culture and Americans," he said. "That's like 5.6 percent "We have built the largest Asian-Amer- Bush by 24 points. In the years since, the cross-ethnic group organization to create of the American population. There is so ican database, with 150,000 emails going margin has narrowed and moved in favor more than 100 ways to connect China and much potential to have civic engagement, out every week, so that's basically how it of Democrats. the US". but there's a relatively low degree of en- works," he said. "We help identify which Every year, more Asian Americans vote They also presented their NextGen gagement like voting, running for office and candidate in a race is better for Asian Ameri- for the candidate 80-20 endorses, Lam said. Leadership Award to a group of up-and- representation in our government, whether cans, supports Asian-American issues, and "We've seen the impact in recent presi- coming Chinese Americans who have been appointed or elected positions." then we try to encourage people to vote for dential elections where the candidate that pursuing the goal of promoting positive 80-20 comes from the realization that no that person." 80-20 endorsed had increasing advantage relations with China and working toward politician will pay attention to a group that So 80-20 versus 50-50? "Yes, basically, over their opponent," Lam said. "When they equal justice for Chinese Americans in cannot generate votes. we want 80 percent of Asian Americans to endorsed Obama in 2012 over Mitt Romney, American society. "So if all Asian Americans are 50 per- vote for the candidate who best represents the Asians' vote was 47 points for Obama Among the recipients was Yale-educated cent one side and 50 percent the other side, Asian-American interests," Lam said. over Romney. It was huge. Obama got 73 ophthalmologist/novelist Andrew Lam, who then there's no reason for a politician or the 80-20 is divided into two parts: an edu- percent versus Romney's 26 percent." has been advocating Asian-American "civic- government to pay attention to what you cational foundation that tries to get people "They did endorse Hillary Clinton," engagement" issues for years, including a actually advocate," Lam explained. "So out to vote and keeps key issues - like col- Lam added. ♦ thoughtful segment on affirmative action if could get Asian Americans to vote in a lege admissions quotas or bamboo ceilings in college admissions that aired on the PBS swing block vote - that's non-partisan; it in corporate America - in front of them. www.chinainsight.info people June 2017 / PAGE 15 Talk with a Chinese adoptee raised in suburban Minnesota By Greg Hugh she did not need to answer any while her mother was neutral on the subject Evidently, Summer’s Chinese heri- questions with which she was and preferred she follow a normal childhood tage has not affected her development as not comfortable, she stated that and just go with the flow. Since I also know evidenced by her résumé of accomplish- she would be fine with anything Will personally, I would say that he might ments, which included her participation I wanted to ask her. be labeled as some kind of “Tiger Dad” in Advantage, Minnetonka High School’s My first question on what who was determined that Summer would be Advanced Business program, professional she thought about her upbring- exposed as much as possible to her Chinese project experience, volunteer activity along ing as an adopted child, she heritage. He was instrumental in getting with winning numerous honors and awards stated that it was perfectly Summer involved with the Chinese Heri- during her formative years. Noteworthy normal for her and did not ex- tage Foundation since 2009. Summer was accomplishments that you’d expect from perience any identify issues as recognized by the organization as follows: any high-achieving red-blooded American to being Chinese or American, teenager. even though she attended sub- Summer Ahern – 2016 Young Volunteer Retaining her Chinese heritage is not urban schools that were not very Summer has been a longtime volunteer at high on her list of things to do. Her main ethnically diverse. While her CHF. She was a constant presence at our focus is school, friends, family, and a job. circle of friends reflected pretty annual A Passage to China celebrations at She continued to volunteer for the Chinese much the student body, she did Mall of America, working at various arts Heritage Foundation because it is enjoyable become friends in third grade tables and, more recently, as a video pho- and a way to be part of the Asian commu- Summer Ahern with the daughter of Chinese tographer during the cultural performances nity, “but I do not do it to retain my Chinese immigrant parents. She still at Sears Court. Many of these videos were heritage alone,” Summer said. She also had What does a child adopted from China considers this Chinese girl a then uploaded to the jumbotron in the four years of Chinese in middle and high by an American couple experience as they very close friend even though she thought Rotunda for instant replays. Summer also school, and plan to continue in college. grow up in the U.S.? The idea for this article her friend’s upbringing was much more worked hard at our founder, Ming Tchou’s “Maybe further down the road I will get a was proposed by Ming Tchou, founder of culturally Chinese, obviously, than her 89th birthday celebration. She created pho- chance to explore more, but because I was the Chinese Heritage Foundation, whose own. Major differences between her and her tographic displays and also folded all the raised American, I have not had a curiosity mission is to preserve and promote, through friend were: friend’s parents didn’t speak as intricate paper holders for the CHF chop- in my heritage,” she added. grant making, the understanding of Chinese much English; religion was a bigger part of sticks. Summer was a cheerful volunteer, What does she treasure most of her history, culture, and heritage among all their lives; they ate more authentic foods; always willing to step into new challenges, Chinese heritage? “If anything, I appreciate Minnesotans. Tchou thought it would be and there were more social gatherings and and received our first Young Volunteer the sense of community I have seen in my interesting to get a perspective from such a family reunions. The Chinese friend was Award at our 2016 A Passage to China. Chinese friends’ households. The way they child, so she and I selected Summer Ahern “brought up in a stricter household where Many congratulations, Summer! care for their elders and the way they put to be the subject of this article the parents were more of a stickler for their family first.” A most astute observation Summer was adopted by Will and Beth grades,” whereas Summer felt her own par- Has Summer ever experienced any kind from the confident young lady. Ahern, residents of Chanhassen, in 1999 ents “cared about my grades, but they were of discrimination? No, although at times she This summer she will be interning at when she was 15 months old. more understanding. I also did not grow up felt it could even have been an advantage Optum, a United Health Group company. I recently sat down with Summer who in a religious household.” since she senses that some people may have She hopes one day to visit China. ♦ just completed her freshman year at the What influence did her parents have on treated her differently in a positive way just University of St. Thomas to discuss her her upbringing? Summer stated that her because she was Chinese! She does not feel childhood. I prepared for our interview with father was very determined that she be ex- she is either Chinese or American but rather a series of questions and while I told her posed to Chinese culture as much as possible an American of Chinese heritage.

6th Pan Asian Arts Festival at MOA a success Islanders (AAPIs) performing arts/cultural groups, while celebrating Pan Asian Heri- tage Month. Many attendees commented that the event was amazing and the various cultural performances were spectacular. Audiences’ favorites were the Hmong and Thai fash- ion shows. The excitement erupted with cheers and claps as outfits were modeled. The procession of cutting-edge ensembles also helped educate the audience about the traditional costumes with unique fabric and patterns. Both fashion shows have added many modern elements to showcase the diverse tribes and cultural fusion with American influence. Cambodian fish dance Attendees also had a chance to partici- pate in many Asian arts and craft projects, The 6th Annual Pan Asian Arts Festival henna tattoo, and games. A good time was on May 20 at the Mall of America, Bloom- had by all. ington, was a success. Asian Media Access, the festival’s main Beautiful lanterns were hung all over cosponsor wishes to thank all volunteers the MOA’s rotunda, which was kicked off and performers and the numerous partners with a Vietnamese lion dance. More than such as MOA and Pan Asian Arts Alliance 2,000 people gathered to enjoy East Indian, for their support. Left and above: Thai outfits Cambodian, Chinese, Hmong, Indonesia, Asian Media Access is a nonprofit that Japanese, K-pop, Miao, Thai performing is dedicated to using multimedia arts and arts by the 43 enthusiastic participating technology as tools for social betterment. It cultural groups. creates and presents programs that educate The Festival was to foster collaboration and enrich the communities and promote and unity among Asian American & Pacific good citizenship. ♦ PAGE 16 / June 2017 arts & culture www.chinainsight.info Grand songs of the Dong ethnic group Continued from page 1

Right: Dong singing songs. Photo by Wu Dingguo and Deng Minwen

Left: A girl team and their singing master. Photo by Yang Xiao

Below: Friends of 4-year- old singing team. Photo by Wu Yun and from Yang Xiao

Left: 8-year-old singing team. Photo by Yang Xiao

My objective is to open a window for the friend circles or friend groups, which have world to get to know more about Chinese become an important organization that universities, the people, our diversified helps the young Dong people take part in ethnic minorities with unique cultures, the the social activities. Even being a child, the connections with the world, etc., from our Dong girl has been admonished that they perspectives. Furthermore, it would provide must learn the Dong Grand Songs. They a very effective platform for unity among are warned by their parents that if they fail the nationalities and international contacts, to learn singing Dong Grand Songs, they discussions and dialogues in the pursuit of won’t find a husband! delivering the most accurate information The all-boys or all-girls singing teams about the two countries. I do believe we are usually made up of kids who live close will reach somewhere and make something to each or are close to each other in kinship. special with our joint efforts. The members of the singing teams will build It is often said and accepted in China an intimate relationship and have social that the Dong and Miao minorities are like activities together. However, after marriage, a family. They have a lot in common: tradi- the singing team built before marriage gets tions, culture, customs, etc. In this article, I dissolved automatically. begin with presenting fabulous Grand Song of the Dong ethnic group. Drum Tower and Dong Grand The Dongs is an important Chinese mi- Songs nority. The group mainly lives in the western The Drum Tower is the central place A prospective singing team of little girls under 2.t year-old. Photo by Yang Xiao border mountain areas of Guizhou, Guangxi, for the singing teams to perform the Dong and Hunan. The Dong people love to sing. Grand Songs. (It is said that, “where there A well-known Dong saying goes like this: is a Dong village, there is a drum tower!) “food feeds a man’s body while songs nour- The male and female teams build a close ish a man’s heart.” Hence, the Dong Grand relationship through singing songs together., Songs are an indispensable spiritual food to which pave the way for many romantic the Dong people. relationships for many of the individuals Dong Grand Songs are called Kgal between the two teams. Generally speaking, Laox in Dong. “Kgal” refers to “song” the male singing team takes the initiative and “Laox” means “ancient” and “grand.” to invite the female team to sing songs at Dong Grand Songs have a long history the drum tower. As for the female team, the and need many singers to participate. It is male team’s invitation is a great honor. For characterized by polyphony, no conductor the male singers , they are more interested and a cappella. Most of the songs praise in taking the chance to look for a girlfriend the beauty of nature, virtue, friendship and than singing songs. love, among which love is heartily hymned When both teams sing at the drum tower, and eulogized. their relatives and friends will come and At the age of 11 or 12, Dong girls begin join in. Hence, singing at the drum tower is their first antiphonal singing with the sing- Above: a chance for the team members to display Performance ing team in front of the Dong people at the their individual overall charms and family Drum Tower. They take their public singing of Dong conditions. The outstanding singers will Grand Songs. as a chance to exhibit beautiful appearance generally have a better chance for a better and talents. marriage. Therefore, to the Dong people, Left: A male learning Dong Grand Songs is not merely a singing team. Singing teams and Dong Grand mastery of singing skills, but a mastery of Songs a lifestyle as well. Participating in a singing Both photos Singing teams are the basic units that team is usually the first step for the young by Wu inherit Dong Grand Songs and usually sing Dongs for finding their future spouse. ♦ Dingguo and on public occasions. These also are called Dong Minwen