Every year in early March, Beijing's Great Hall of the People becomes a vibrant spectacle. This is when political meetings take place. Outside, the scene is lively. Delegates from minority groups, dressed in their finest traditional outfits, pose for photos. This is a stark contrast to the dull business suits inside. The delegates come from distant provinces, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and intricate designs. This display is meant to show that China values all 56 of its ethnic groups equally. However, the Han Chinese, who make up about 92% of the population, have been the dominant force in politics and the economy for thousands of years.

        The delegates are from places like Yunnan, Guangxi, Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Tibet. Some of these groups, like the Uyghurs and Tibetans, are well-known. Others are smaller, with only a few thousand members. Many of these groups have been assimilated into the Han culture over time. For instance, the Manchus, who ruled China for around 300 years, have largely blended into the Han population. Mao Zedong, after taking power in 1949, pushed for a single Chinese identity. This included imposing a single language and political orthodoxy. Campaigns against Tibetan Buddhism and Islam, practiced by groups like the Uyghurs, were also part of this push. This has led to a complex dynamic where traditional cultures are celebrated in public but face significant challenges in maintaining their unique identities.

        The Great Hall of the People is a place where these contrasts are on full display. The vibrant traditional outfits of the delegates stand out against the drab suits of the political elite. This visual contrast highlights the tension between the official narrative of equality and the reality of cultural assimilation. The delegates, with their colorful attire and intricate designs, are a reminder of the rich cultural diversity that exists within China. However, the dominance of the Han culture and the policies of the past have left many of these groups struggling to maintain their unique identities. The annual political meetings in Beijing are a time when this tension is on full display, a colorful contrast to the monotonous sessions inside.

A Colorful Contrast

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