Shocking Events in Qingyang: A Tragic Tale That Stirs Anger
What Happened?
The heart‑breaking story began on June 20, 2018 in the city of Qingyang. A 19‑year‑old student, known only by her surname Li, decided to end her life by leaping from the eighth floor of a building after spending hours at a ledge while rescue teams tried everything to persuade her to stay.
Videos circulating online captured her sitting on a ledge for what felt like an eternity, with help coming from all directions. Unfortunately, a few bystanders below decided to turn this already dreadful moment into a kind of “performance”: they heckled her with “Why haven’t you jumped yet?” and, when she finally took the plunge, some even applauded.
Police stepped in and detained a handful of those who shouted at her, as reported by the state‑backed China Youth Daily.
The Crowd’s “Support” and Public Outrage
- “How cold is society that people will ask her to jump?” one angry commenter wrote.
- Another lamented, “The heart‑breaking screams of the rescue worker illustrate human cruelty!”
Those who were once supposedly “supportive” now find themselves facing the harsh reality of a society that, in their viewpoint, sometimes lauds tragedy instead of safeguarding life.
Why Li Was Suffering
Li’s parents tell us she fell into depression following a sexual harassment incident back in September. A teacher of hers allegedly tried to kiss and hug her, which left her emotionally scarred and repeatedly on the brink of suicide.
These occurrences echo a larger pattern: many Chinese schools and universities have recently been accused of widespread sexual misconduct on campus.
The #MeToo Wave in China
Students and rights activists hoped to ride the global #MeToo movement to push for systemic change. Unfortunately, the momentum has stalled because authorities often censor online voices. In some places, institutions even discourage students from organizing protests or publicly addressing their complaints.
A Denied Offer
After the incident, Li’s family was offered a 350,000 yuan (roughly S$72,915.50) compensation package by the school. Yet they refused. The college would have required them to pull back the accusation against the teacher, a move the parents found humiliating.
In the words of the parents, the school’s settlement essentially forced them to “sign away their dignity.”
Final Thoughts
Such stories remind us how crucial it is for communities to truly listen and protect those in distress—especially when the wrath of stigma and misinformation can undermine the courage of individuals who need help. Let’s hope that this tragedy sparks a broader conversation in China about how to truly support victims, silence harassment, and keep society from becoming a cruel spectator sport.
HELPLINES
Feeling Overwhelmed? Reach Out to These Friendly Hands
When life throws more curveballs than a circus, you might want a quick conversation with a trained ally. Below are some trusted Singapore support services – just dial the numbers and your conversation will start right where you’re at. No fuss, no pen‑and‑paper, just a friendly voice or two.
- Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) – 1‑800‑2214‑444
- Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH) – 1‑800‑2837‑019
- Sage Counselling Centre – 1‑800‑555‑5555
- Care Corner Mandarin Counselling – 1‑800‑353‑5800
Give any of these numbers a ring. The folks on the other end are there to listen, support, and help you navigate the storm – whether it’s panic, depression, or just a rough day. They’re ready to chat, whenever you need. No pressure, just genuine human care.
