The recent performance by Chinese “square dancing aunties” at a martyr’s cemetery has sparked criticism. - Photo: SCMP composite/Xinhua/Douyin
BEIJING: A troupe of “square dancing aunties” in southwest China has ignited widespread outrage across the nation after they chose to dance at a martyrs’ cemetery.
These groups, referred to as “damas” in China, typically consist of middle-aged and elderly women, though not exclusively, and their vibrant dance sessions have become a common sight throughout the country.
On September 4, a group of damas turned on their music and began dancing in front of tombstones at the Zhaxi Chinese Red Army Martyrs’ Cemetery located in Yunnan province, crossing the boundaries of what is considered an acceptable space for their activity.
The cemetery spans an area of 46,700 square metres and was established to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Zhaxi during the Red Army’s Long March.
This historic event, which took place between 1934 and 1936, involved the Chinese Communist Party’s military retreating from the Nationalists and holds great significance in the narrative of the party’s history.
In 1996, the Chinese government listed the cemetery as a National Key Martyrs Memorial Protection Unit.
Workers at the cemetery informed mainland outlet China Newsweek that the burial ground is accessible to the public, and it is not uncommon for people to dance there in the early mornings, usually before staff members arrive at 7am.
However, a sign at the entrance explicitly states, “Square dancing is not allowed in this solemn area.”
Employees said they frequently have to disperse the dancing groups and request them to leave when they arrive. In some instances, they have even had to call the police to help mediate the situation.
A video showing the middle-aged women dancing in front of the martyr tombstones quickly gained traction, amassing 3.9 million views on Weibo, sparking discussions about the appropriateness of such activities in a location meant to honour fallen heroes.
One netizen condemned their actions on Weibo: “Such behaviour is disrespectful to the soldiers and will bring retribution.”
Another Weibo user said: “Many Chinese people don’t fear the spirits of martyrs because they gave their lives to protect the country and would never harm anyone. The aunties are exploiting that and showing no respect for the martyrs. It’s shameful.”
Someone else shared their own experiences: “When I visited a martyrs’ cemetery, I did not dare to take pictures or speak because I feared I would disturb the resting spirits of the soldiers.”
As of the time of writing, there have been no reported responses from the women.
Chinese law strictly prohibits activities that could harm memorial sites dedicated to heroes and martyrs, with offenders potentially facing administrative detention and fines.
On September 6, the local government issued a statement criticising the cemetery staff for inadequate management.
They announced plans to more clearly delineate the boundaries between protected areas and residential spaces to avoid confusion and committed to increasing daily patrols at the cemetery.
While the phenomenon of dancing aunties is a cherished aspect of Chinese culture, it sometimes leads to friction with the general public.
Notably, in 2021, a creative business developed a “stun gun” purported to disrupt the music systems of these dancers from a distance. - South China Morning Post
