37 years ago, brave young souls rose up in Tiananmen Square. Today, their legacy reminds us: a truly great nation has the courage to face its history, embrace different voices, and protect the inalienable right to dream. Taiwan will always stand with those striving for freedom.
The 37th Anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Massacre
Press Statement
Marco Rubio, Secretary of State
June 3, 2026
On June 4, the world marks 37 years since the Chinese Communist Party ordered its troops to attack thousands of peaceful demonstrators in and around Tiananmen Square. Chinese students, workers, and other civilians who lost their lives had gathered to exercise their natural rights and demand democratic reforms and accountability for corruption. We remember their lives and honor their legacy.
No amount of censorship can erase the past. Those who sacrificed to uphold their unalienable rights of free expression and peaceful assembly will be vindicated someday. The Chinese Communist Party actively tries to censor the facts, but the world will never forget.
Today, we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of June 4, 1989.
Their courage in the face of certain danger continues to inspire those who seek freedom around the world. We honor their memory and reaffirm our commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms.