Nanfu Wang, a documentary filmmaker, challenges the idea of America as a beacon of democracy, suggesting that its slide into autocracy is not unimaginable. Wang, originally from China, moved to the US in search of democracy and freedom. She has now created a film, Night Is Not Eternal, following activist Rosa María Payá in her fight for democratic reform in Cuba. The narrative explores the similarities between Cuba’s struggle against tyranny and that in China, where Wang’s films are banned. It also prompts a discussion on the immigrant experience and the possibility of effecting change from afar.
Wang was inspired by Payá’s story and sought to address her own doubts about making an impact as a filmmaker. She found a sense of optimism and determination in Payá’s activism, which led her to collaborate on a film project. The challenges they faced in Cuba, including constant surveillance and the need for precaution, reminded Wang of her experiences in China.
Wang observed the differences in organizing tactics between Cuban and Chinese dissidents, noting the creativity and use of technology by the younger generation. She highlighted the role of the internet in activism and the ways in which social media has changed the landscape of dissent. Wang’s experiences in both countries have given her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by those fighting for democracy and freedom. During my time in Cuba, I often experienced being followed by agents who would switch between three different cars and three different people, constantly tailing us wherever we went.
Similarly, in China, tracking through phone devices is more common, creating a digital chase. While working in China, I didn’t always have people following me, but new individuals would mysteriously appear wherever I went.
The title of Wang’s film suggests that there is hope for change in autocratic regimes like China and Cuba. While Rosa is optimistic about the possibility of change within 10 or 20 years, I am more reserved in my optimism, especially considering the current state of affairs in the US.
The struggle between democracy and autocracy was a central theme during Joe Biden’s presidency, particularly following the events of the January 6 insurrection. Trump’s rhetoric and actions have raised concerns about the stability of US democracy, with some drawing parallels to autocratic leaders like Xi Jinping.
Trump’s divisive campaign tactics, including harsh rhetoric towards immigrants, have appealed to some voters for various reasons. Despite this, Wang was surprised by Rosa’s willingness to engage with Trump and her reluctance to take a clear stance on his presidency.
The polarisation within communities, such as the Chinese American community, mirrors the broader political divide in the US. While some may support Trump for his stance against China, others are critical of his anti-Asian remarks and policies.
The differing interpretations of Trump’s actions highlight the complexity of political allegiances and values within communities. Despite this, the consequences of Trump’s cabinet nominations and policies are cause for concern among those who value democracy and freedom.
Wang warns against the dangers of appointing loyalists over competent individuals in government, drawing parallels to Xi Jinping’s consolidation of power in China. The potential for chaos and corruption under such leadership is a significant concern.
The threat of mass deportation under Trump’s administration is a personal concern for Wang, as it impacts her family, friends, and community. The implications of such policies are far-reaching and raise questions about the future of democracy and freedom in the US. Ich unterrichte auch Schüler, die Angst haben, in den Urlaub zu fahren und was ist, wenn sie nach Januar nicht mehr zurückkommen dürfen? All diese sind echte Auswirkungen und Ängste und Konsequenzen. Die Demokratie nimmt weltweit ab: Zum ersten Mal seit Jahrzehnten gibt es mehr geschlossene Autokratien als liberale Demokratien. Selbst die USA haben ein Jahrzehnt des Niedergangs erlebt und, wenn nur die Hälfte der Warnungen über Trump wahr ist, steht ihr ein weiterer Rückschlag bevor. China und andere Autokratien spüren eine Gelegenheit. Wang, dessen Film In the Same Breath die Reaktion der USA und Chinas auf das Virus untersuchte, fügt hinzu: „Selbst während der Pandemie gab es das Gefühl, dass Amerika und einige westliche demokratische Länder es versäumt haben, die Pandemie zu bewältigen, besonders im Jahr 2021. In dieser Zeit würden Nordkorea und China sagen: ‚Schaut auf unser System als überlegen. Wir haben eine bessere Art, mit einer Krise umzugehen. So sollte das System sein.‘ „Wenn Amerika in die Autokratie abrutscht, hat die ganze Welt definitiv mehr dazu tendieren zu sagen, so funktioniert es. Wenn Menschenrechtsverletzungen in einem Land geschehen, wer sind die internationalen Stimmen, die es zur Rechenschaft ziehen würden? Es gibt weniger Agenturen, Länder, die in der Lage sind, sie zur Rechenschaft zu ziehen. Das Signal, dass es an die Welt sendet, ist, dass die Demokratie fragil ist. Es ist nichts, was man als selbstverständlich betrachten kann. Es ist ein Prozess, kein Endergebnis, und etwas, für das die Menschen ständig kämpfen müssen.