On September 26, Peking University hosted a performance of the patriotic drama “Memories of the Southwest Associated University.” Among the esteemed audience were Wang Gang and Pang Lijuan, both Vice Chairpersons of the Central Committee of the China Democratic League, along with Li Malin, another Vice Chairperson and the Chairperson of the Yunnan Provincial Committee, who addressed the crowd during the event.

“Memories of the Southwest Associated University,” developed with guidance from the Central Committee of the China Democratic League and supported by the Beijing and Yunnan committees, as well as Peking University, highlights the significant history of the Southwest Associated University from over 80 years ago. In the face of daunting challenges, the university remained steadfast in its mission to provide education and contribute to national salvation, nurturing a generation of exceptional talents for the country. This play holds great patriotic educational value and is part of the Yunnan Arts Fund initiative, touring colleges in Beijing and Tianjin to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

During her speech, Li Malin emphasized that “Memories of the Southwest Associated University” is not only a tribute to a remarkable historical chapter but also a reflection of its importance for today. The performance at Peking University, a key site in the university’s legacy, aims to keep the spirit of the Southwest Associated University alive. She expressed her hope that the play would encourage more people to uncover the stories from that pivotal era, embrace the patriotic fervor and sense of duty exhibited by that generation of intellectuals, and inspire a renewed spirit for the modern age.

The event was also graced by Jin Yongwei, Secretary-General of the Central Committee of the China Democratic League; Mao Mengxi, Minister of the Publicity Department; Zhou Jingxiao, Deputy Minister of the United Front Work Department of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China; Liao Yi and Jin Zhenhui, Vice Chairpersons from the Beijing and Yunnan committees, respectively; Yin Xiaodong, President of the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Opera; Cang Yuqing, Secretary-General of the Beijing Municipal Committee; and a crowd of over 1,000 students and faculty from Peking University.