Remember When: Student Protests Grew in Beijing

On April 24, 1989, the heart of Beijing pulsed with the chants of thousands of students demanding change. What began as mourning for reform-minded leader Hu Yaobang quickly turned into a bold call for democracy, free speech, and government accountability.

Frustrated by corruption and limited freedoms, students organized strikes and peaceful demonstrations in Tiananmen Square—soon to become a global symbol of protest. They carried banners, voiced demands for open dialogue with officials, and called for a future where their voices mattered.

The movement grew rapidly. By April 24, the protests had expanded well beyond campuses, drawing national and international attention. For many students, this was their first taste of collective political action. For China, it was the beginning of a reckoning.

Though the movement was later met with tragic violence during the June 4 crackdown, the courage and unity shown that spring still resonate. It was a moment of idealism, defiance, and hope—a stand for democratic ideals in a system that sought to silence them.

That same spirit is alive today.

Just this month, on April 12 and 19, “Hands Off” rallies swept across the United States. What began as student-led protests quickly grew into diverse, nationwide gatherings. These demonstrations brought together people of all ages, races, and regions—elders, veterans, faith leaders, parents, and teens. From cities to rural towns, communities stood united by a shared sense of urgency and purpose.

From Tiananmen Square to today’s streets, movements for change are rarely tidy—but they are powerful. And history reminds us: when people come together across differences, they can shift the future.

Our voices still matter. And courage still looks like showing up for each other.