Locals pay homage to martyrs

Shenzhen holds a significant place in Guangdong’s revolutionary history as one of its key base areas and the birthplace of the Dongjiang Column.

Throughout the long years of resistance against the Japanese invasion, the struggles that led to the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and the efforts to build a prosperous nation, countless Shenzhen residents fought valiantly for their motherland and its people, shedding blood and sweat on the southern frontiers and sacrificing their lives with unwavering determination. Among these heroes are Chen Rixiang, Dai Zhuowen, Cai Zixiang, Huang You, Liu Heizai, Lin Wenhu, Liu Yuanbo, Ling Wenhui, and the 16 warriors of Huangtian.

To honor the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in Shenzhen and the Hong Kong-Kowloon region throughout various historical periods, the Shenzhen Municipal Government in 1983 relocated the Martyrs’ Monument from Bao’an County People’s Square to Poling on North Ring Road. Today, this 57,000-square-meter cemetery features a memorial hall, the monument, landscaped gardens, and other facilities.

On Tomb-Sweeping Day, which fell on Friday this year, Shenzhen Daily photographer Liu Xudong captured locals paying tribute to those who gave their lives for the nation and its people.

Photos by Liu Xudong