In mid-August 2025, the fourth group of official inheritors of the Nanjing Massacre's historical memory was announced, as 38 Chinese and foreign nationals received certificates in Nanjing. This year’s cohort marks the first time descendants of international witnesses have joined the program, highlighting a truly global effort to keep survivors’ stories alive.
Among the newly certified inheritors is Thomas Rabe, the grandson of John Rabe, a German businessman who established the Nanjing Safety Zone and saved thousands of civilians during the massacre. Megan Brady, great-granddaughter of U.S. doctor Richard Brady, also received recognition for her dedication to documenting her ancestor’s eyewitness accounts.
Alongside these international heirs, descendants of survivors and custodians of historical artifacts were honored for their ongoing work in education, archiving, and cross-cultural exchange. Since its launch four years ago, the program has grown from a small domestic initiative to a diverse network of memory keepers from across G20 nations.
“By including descendants of international friends for the first time, we are reinforcing the shared responsibility of preserving human rights history,” said a representative of the preservation committee. Through public lectures, digital archives, and collaborative exhibitions, the inheritors are set to expand awareness of the 1937–1938 tragedy on the global stage.
As the world marks the 88th anniversary of the Nanjing Massacre this December, these 38 voices will carry forward a mission of historical truth and intercultural dialogue—ensuring that lessons of resilience and compassion continue to resonate with younger generations worldwide.
Reference(s):
Remembering history: Preserving the legacy of Nanjing Massacre
cgtn.com
