On October 18, a celebration marking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Changyang Tujia Autonomous County took place in Yichang, Hubei Province. Locals and distinguished guests gathered by the picturesque Qingshui River to enjoy a day of music and dance, coming together for this significant event.
Changyang, located in the southwestern mountainous region of Hubei, is steeped in history as the homeland of the “Changyang people,” with a legacy spanning back 190,000 years. This area is not only known for its Tujia culture but also as a birthplace for the Ba ethnic group. Covering an area of 3,420 square kilometers, Changyang has a registered population of 380,000, with ethnic minorities—including Tujia, Miao, Hui, and Mongolian peoples—comprising 65% of the population. The autonomous county was officially established in 1984.
Over the past 40 years, Changyang has seen remarkable growth, with its GDP increasing by 120 times, agricultural output expanding 83 times, and industrial production nearly multiplying by 100. The average income for urban and rural residents has surged by 46 times, earning the county the title of a national model for ethnic unity and progress.
The atmosphere at Changyang Tujia Source Square, the venue for the celebratory event, was festive, adorned with colorful lanterns. Representatives from the National People’s Congress and the State Ethnic Affairs Commission attended to convey their congratulations.
He Fengqin, a 48-year-old inheritor of Tujia ethnic clothing heritage, expressed her excitement about attending the anniversary celebration. “I’ve participated in the 10th anniversary celebration, and coming back to this one feels particularly special,” she said. He highlighted the significant changes in Changyang over the years, noting her own successful return to her hometown for entrepreneurship. “I hope my hometown and my journey both continue to shine brightly,” she added.
In recent years, green development has become a hallmark of Changyang’s progress, with the region now home to seven A-level scenic spots. In 2023 alone, the county welcomed 12.51 million tourists, generating a total tourism revenue of 11.7 billion yuan.
Li Zigang, the county’s Party Secretary, remarked on the collaborative efforts of past county leaders and residents over the last four decades. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the sense of a shared Chinese national identity as the focal point of their work, contributing to a collective story of unity and prosperity.
Following the celebration, locals and guests enjoyed a cultural performance that reflected the rich tapestry of life in Changyang. The show, divided into three acts—”Changyang Is Long,” “Tujia Is Not Just Tujia,” and “Qingjiang Is Clearer”—celebrated the harmony among diverse ethnic groups and shared a vision of building the Chinese dream together.
