A powerful speech delivered by Jiang Yurong, a Chinese Harvard graduate, calling for unity in a fractured world, has ignited widespread discussion and mixed reactions across the United States and China. Coming just days after the US government vowed to “aggressively” revoke visas of Chinese students, Jiang’s address resonated deeply, symbolizing a plea for understanding amidst rising tensions.
Jiang, who made history as the first Chinese woman to speak at a Harvard commencement ceremony, chose to emphasize the importance of shared humanity and mutual respect. Her message, delivered on the same day a US federal judge blocked the Trump administration’s ban on foreign students at Harvard, swiftly went viral on Chinese social media, sparking tears, debate, and controversy.
“We don’t rise by proving each other wrong. We rise by refusing to let one another go,” Jiang declared, setting the tone for a heartfelt call to bridge divides. She reflected on Harvard’s diverse, international classrooms, where students “dance through each other’s traditions” and “carry the weight of each other’s worlds,” underscoring the value of cultural exchange and empathy in building a common future.
Jiang’s personal background adds layers to her narrative. Born in China, she spent her final two years of secondary school at Cardiff Sixth Form College in Wales before earning her undergraduate degree from Duke University in the US, and then Harvard for graduate studies in international development. Her multinational academic journey informs her global perspective, rooted in connection rather than division.
However, her speech also triggered skepticism and criticism, particularly from US conservatives wary of China’s influence. A prominent conservative X (formerly Twitter) account accused Harvard of selecting a speaker tied to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), alleging that Jiang’s father works for an organization serving as a quasi-diplomatic agent for the party. These accusations intensified concerns amid ongoing US government actions restricting Chinese student visas, justified by fears of espionage and undue foreign influence.
Meanwhile, on Chinese social platforms like Weibo and Red Note, opinions diverged widely. Some users questioned Jiang’s elite background, arguing she does not represent the typical Chinese student. Others pointed out that the organization linked to her father is backed by American companies and foundations, casting doubt on claims of CCP control. Many expressed admiration for Jiang’s message of unity, with some moved to tears and others hoping she would continue to represent Chinese talent abroad.
The broader context highlights the increasing scrutiny faced by Chinese students in the US. Harvard currently enrolls around 6,800 international students, who constitute over 27% of its student body, with nearly one-third from China. These students often find themselves caught between geopolitical conflicts and rising nationalism, facing visa challenges and public suspicion despite their contributions to academic and cultural exchange.
Jiang’s speech thus symbolizes more than an individual plea; it reflects the aspirations and anxieties of many international students who seek to bridge cultures and promote understanding. Her call to see humanity even in those labeled as adversaries offers a counter-narrative to escalating political rhetoric.
As tensions between the US and China continue to influence immigration and education policies, voices like Jiang’s underscore the critical importance of dialogue and empathy. Whether embraced or contested, her message challenges both nations to reconsider the human connections that transcend borders and political divides.
In an era marked by polarization, Jiang Yurong’s heartfelt words remind us of the power of unity and the shared future that can be forged when we choose compassion over conflict.
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