On Point | Podcast What does one owe their country? A family's 'reckoning on China'
Sep 20, 2024
Edward Wong, a New York Times correspondent, shares his father's remarkable journey from a devoted Communist in China to an immigrant in America. He discusses the emotional turmoil of confronting patriotic loyalty versus political disillusionment, and reveals the weight of his father's experiences during tumultuous historical events like the Korean War and the Japanese invasion. Wong’s insights paint a vivid picture of immigrant life, the complex family dynamics shaped by historical traumas, and the haunting echoes of authoritarian repression.
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Letter from China
- In 1958, Edward Wong's father, Yooka, wrote a letter to his brother, Sam, in America.
- Yooka, a fervent communist in China, urged Sam to return, emphasizing China's progress and need for skilled individuals.
Patriotism and Duty
- Edward Wong's father's letter reflects intense patriotism, shaped by his experiences in communist China.
- He appeals to both family and national duty, urging his brother to contribute to China's rebuilding.
Formative Experiences
- Edward Wong's father's belief in the Communist Party stemmed from witnessing China's devastation during the Japanese and civil wars.
- He saw the CCP as a stabilizing force, promising a better future after years of hardship and corruption under the Nationalists.