Chinese Politician wants national “Humiliation Day” for Japanese invasion’s anniversary

Some news from the People’s Republic of China:

BEIJING (AP) — A lawmaker has called for a national “Humiliation Day” on Sept. 18 to mark the start of Japan’s 1931 invasion and remind the Chinese public of foreign attacks, state media reported Thursday.

Chinese nationalism, especially among the young, has surged recently along with the country’s economy and international influence, stoked by a Communist government that regards Japan as its rival for regional superpower status.

“An outstanding nation is one that will always keep its history firmly in mind. We should never forget our compatriots who lost their lives in the war,” lawmaker Jiang Jian said during China’s annual legislative session, according to Xinhua News Agency.

“Remembering this humiliating part of history will help Chinese people feel urged to safeguard peace and work hard for the rejuvenation of the nation,” said Jiang, president of a hospital in Qufu, Shandong province.

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The communist government keeps alive memories of the “Mukden Incident” through state media and schoolbooks and uses the date to rally nationalism. It was designated “National Defense Education Day” in 2000, opening the way for formal commemorations.

Jiang said governments offices should mark Sept. 18 by flying the national flag at half mast, arranging for air-raid sirens to blast for three minutes and for the public in stand in silence for one minute.

She also said government offices should not hold celebrations on that day.

A politician exploiting emotionally-charged historical events to play the nationalist card and gain popularity? Why, I’ve never heard of such a thing!