China’s Festive Decorations Spark Concerns Over Foreign Influence

In prominent Chinese cities like Shanghai and Chongqing, glittering malls with giant Christmas trees and festive decor create a holiday ambiance

Notably, in Yunnan province, a property management company issued a notice to shopping mall tenants, urging them not to sell Christmas cards and presents, and discouraging the hanging of decorations. The directive emphasized the importance of avoiding the blind adoption of foreign traditions and maintaining confidence in China’s cultural identity.

Cautious Approach in Schools: Discouraging Foreign Traditions

Schools in various cities, from Dongguan in the south to Harbin in the northeast, have echoed the cautious sentiments by calling on students and parents to refrain from following foreign traditions without thoughtful consideration. This approach reflects the Chinese government’s broader strategy of closely managing permitted religions and cultural practices. The emphasis on cultural confidence and the avoidance of blindly embracing foreign customs aligns with the government’s efforts to assert the sinicisation of Christianity and maintain control over cultural influences.

China’s Strict Control Over Permitted Religions and Cultural Practices

China’s governance extends to permitted religions, with a particular focus on sinicisation—aligning foreign religions with Chinese cultural norms. This strict control has been evident in the government’s management of Christianity, leading to tensions with the Vatican. The cautionary directives in schools and malls during the Christmas season underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining cultural integrity and avoiding undue foreign influence.

Balancing Festivities and Cultural Identity

While Christmas celebrations are vibrant in certain urban centers, the cautious approach in restricting foreign traditions in other areas reflects China’s ongoing efforts to strike a balance between embracing global festivities and safeguarding its cultural identity. The directives encourage a sense of cultural confidence while navigating the influence of foreign customs during the holiday season.