'Welcome to China' thirty four years ago remains true today
In Guangzhou I came face-to-face with my lack of knowledge. Shamian Island, bordering the Pearl River, a delightful enclave within an otherwise bustling city. The area's attraction coming partly through its beautiful architecture. Buildings, residences, hotels, churches that could easily fit into a refined European city. Gradually I would learn about how Guangzhou, (historically Canton to westerners), was the only port in China, apart from the Portuguese territory of Macau that was open to international presence and commerce during the Qing Dynasty. China, during the 18th and 19th centuries was the world's most prosperous lands. Western countries wanted in to trade but China, wary of opening its doors too wide, restricted their presence to Canton. However, what disturbed me was to learn of the mid-19th century Opium Wars, a time when the Qing was increasingly weakening. This was something that never appeared in any of my school history books! Farther study helped me appreciate why cities such as Shanghai and Tianjin have significant areas of strong western architecture related to what was becoming a 'scramble for China'. Researching such periods has enhanced my understanding of China's wariness and approach at past times towards the outside world. Yet, despite what happened then and sadly much contemporary rhetoric, I a westerner still feel welcome.
What has saddened me recently have been reports of racist attacks, both physical and verbal on Chinese and people of Asian appearance overseas. Back in Scotland I had the privilege of working closely with the Chinese community in my home city, Glasgow. They were some of the nicest, most sincere and well educated people I have ever met. I was invited annually to participate within the Chinese New Year Celebration, indeed being asked to put on photographic displays of China. They were amazed at how extensive my travels across this vast country had been. In Beijing I have mostly lived within local communities, my journeys across China usually solo. Never once in 34 years experiencing anything racial or hostile.
