This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, a milestone that highlights the significant contributions of overseas Chinese to both the Chinese revolution and the construction of modern China. With the success of China’s reform, opening up, and modernization heavily reliant on the support and participation of the Chinese diaspora, it raises questions about the unique roles they play in promoting cultural exchange. Looking ahead, how might they continue to facilitate dialogue between Chinese culture and cultures worldwide? Recently, we had a chance to speak with Professor Li Qirong from the International Center for Immigration and Overseas Chinese Studies at Central China Normal University.
**Interviewer**: Traditional Chinese culture serves as the root and soul of the Chinese nation. Many generations of overseas Chinese have achieved remarkable successes through their hard work and ingenuity. What cultural traits do you think they embody?
**Li Qirong**: The concept of “cultural genes,” introduced by Richard Dawkins in “The Selfish Gene,” likens these genes to biological ones, acting as units of cultural transmission grounded in specific values and ways of thinking. Over China’s 5,000-year history, our outstanding traditional culture has become a key spiritual identifier for the nation, nurturing qualities essential for the survival and development of the Chinese people.
Wherever they settle, overseas Chinese cultivate a relationship with their homeland that resonates with “roots, soul, and dreams.” They uphold material cultural traits, such as dietary habits and housing styles, while also passing down intangible cultural values like traditional beliefs and customs.
**Interviewer**: Ji Xianlin emphasized that cultural exchange is a vital force advancing human society. How do overseas Chinese facilitate this exchange with other countries, and what unique roles do they play in the process?
**Li Qirong**: Cultural exchange involves various forms, from the movement of people and goods to the sharing of customs, thought, and art. Overseas Chinese contribute greatly through their linguistic behaviors, traditions, and interactions.
Firstly, they act as carriers and ambassadors of Chinese culture, serving as important windows to project China’s image internationally. With approximately 60 million overseas Chinese embodying diverse cultural traits, they not only establish roots in their adopted countries but also spread Chinese culture through over 20,000 Chinese language schools, hundreds of Chinese-language media outlets, and countless Chinatowns and Chinese restaurants.
Secondly, they celebrate and share traditional Chinese festivals, such as Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, by engaging in culturally significant activities like decorating, writing couplets, and organizing local events, which enhance cultural diversity wherever they are.
Thirdly, overseas Chinese often organize cultural and artistic events that promote Chinese heritage. For instance, associations like the Malaysian Chinese Cultural Association host exhibitions on calligraphy and traditional painting, helping bridge cultural gaps.
Fourthly, they facilitate cultural and economic exchanges between China and other nations through business and professional connections, showcasing their specialized skills and ongoing ties with China. Initiatives like the Chinese diaspora business discussions gather professionals from over 100 countries to foster cultural exchange.
Fifthly, the Chinese food scene, an essential part of many overseas Chinese lives, has successfully introduced Chinese dining culture into various countries, reflecting the blending and appreciation of cultures.
Lastly, overseas Chinese-language media plays a crucial role in linking China and the world, significantly contributing to the dissemination of Chinese narratives and cultural understanding.
**Interviewer**: Looking towards the future, how can overseas Chinese capitalize on their unique strengths to further promote mutual understanding across civilizations?
**Li Qirong**: Overseas Chinese occupy a unique position, straddling both their homeland and foreign societies. Their deep understanding of Chinese culture, along with their knowledge of foreign languages and customs, positions them well to facilitate dialogue and understanding.
As we strive to build a community with a shared future for mankind, cultural exchange is fundamental. Overseas Chinese can leverage their unique insights into both China and their host countries to provide diverse perspectives and contribute to constructive solutions.
Community organizations and cultural groups are vital components of “people-to-people diplomacy” and can significantly enhance cross-cultural exchanges between governments and local communities. For instance, cultural exchanges have historically supported the growth of China-U.S. relations, while the involvement of overseas Chinese in commerce and cooperation with ASEAN countries continues to have a lasting impact.
To summarize, it’s crucial to continue utilizing Chinese community organizations, Chinese-language media, and cultural platforms as means of integrating into local societies while showcasing Chinese heritage. Chinese-language media, in particular, should adapt to modern formats that broaden outreach and engagement with different regions, sharing compelling stories that highlight cultural exchange and foster a balanced view of China in the global arena.
Ultimately, we must draw contemporary relevance and global significance from our rich traditional culture and communicate the accomplishments of modern Chinese cultural innovation. By emphasizing shared human values, we can enhance the vitality and influence of traditional Chinese culture continuously.
