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News & Politics

Harvard Commencement Speaker Embroiled in Controversy Over Admission and Privilege

Jiang Yurong, a Chinese student, made history as Harvard's first Chinese female commencement speaker in 2023. Her graduation speech, which emphasized global interconnectedness, was delivered while wearing traditional Chinese elements with her academic regalia. However, her achievement was soon marred by controversies surrounding her admission to Harvard, with allegations that she gained entry through connections, particularly through the Green Development Foundation, where her father has ties. The foundation had previously posted about helping recommend her to Harvard Kennedy School, though these posts were later removed.

Culture

High Cost of Deception: Chinese Man's Desperate Attempts to Meet Dowry Demands Land Him in Prison

A recent case in China has sparked intense discussion about the societal pressures and consequences of marriage-related financial obligations. A man from Jiangsu province, named Shen, was sentenced to 1 year and 9 months in prison for buying fake bank deposit certificates to deceive his then-girlfriend's family about his ability to pay the 188,000 yuan (approximately $26,000) bride price, also known as dowry. This case highlights the intense financial pressure that marriage dowry creates in Chinese society, where the high costs of marriage are pushing some individuals towards illegal activities.

News & Politics

Teenage Assault in Sichuan Sparks Outrage and Calls for Action Against Youth Violence

A recent incident in Gulin County, Sichuan Province, where two 15-year-old boys were beaten by a group of 7 people, including both minors and adults, has sparked widespread discussion on social media. The case began on May 24, 2025, around 4:00 AM, when the two victims, Huang and Xiong, were riding bikes on Jinlan Avenue near the tax bureau section. They were laughing while riding, which was misinterpreted by another 15-year-old, Chen, as mockery directed at him. Chen then gathered six other people, including a 26-year-old adult, Wang, and assaulted the two victims in the Kaixuan City Qian'gong underground parking lot.