越洋电话：小罗快跑 ｜ EP2「茫」 - 12月 28日,2024年
越洋电话 - 美国之音
Deep Dive
What significant change occurred in Xiao Luo's life in 2007?
In 2007, Xiao Luo, who had never attended school before, participated in an English summer camp organized by the Gratitude Studio in his hometown of Bijie, Guizhou. This marked his first exposure to education, introducing him to concepts like Christianity, Grace, English, and America, which were previously unfamiliar to him.
Why was the Gratitude Studio established in 2003?
The Gratitude Studio was established in 2003 by a group of primarily Christian Chinese Americans in California. They were motivated by the dire conditions they witnessed in Guizhou, such as poor infrastructure, lack of clean water, and malnutrition among children. They aimed to provide educational and humanitarian aid to improve the lives of these children.
How did Xiao Luo's life change after joining the Gratitude Studio?
After joining the Gratitude Studio, Xiao Luo's life stabilized. He gained access to education, regular meals, and a place to live. He also began learning English with enthusiasm and developed a sense of hope and purpose, eventually aspiring to become a pastor and share his testimony.
What challenges did Xiao Luo face in his early education?
Xiao Luo faced significant challenges in his early education, including bullying and fights with older students at the blind school. Despite these difficulties, he quickly learned Braille and excelled in English, becoming the class representative for English.
Why did the Gratitude Studio and similar organizations face difficulties in China after 2012?
After 2012, the Chinese government, under Xi Jinping's leadership, tightened regulations on NGOs, especially those with foreign and religious backgrounds. Organizations like the Gratitude Studio were seen as potential threats to social stability and national security, leading to increased scrutiny and eventual termination of their operations.
What was the impact of the Gratitude Studio's departure on Xiao Luo?
The departure of the Gratitude Studio in 2012 left Xiao Luo in a state of uncertainty. He lost the support system that had provided him with education and stability. Despite promises from local government officials to fund his education, these commitments were not fulfilled, leaving him to navigate his future on his own.
How did Xiao Luo continue his education after the Gratitude Studio left?
After the Gratitude Studio left, Xiao Luo enrolled in a technical school in Kunming to study traditional Chinese medicine and massage. He received tuition waivers and a small living stipend, allowing him to continue his education despite the lack of support from his family.
What were the broader implications of the Chinese government's policy changes on NGOs?
The Chinese government's policy changes, particularly the 2016 Overseas NGO Management Law, required all foreign NGOs to register with Chinese authorities and find a government-affiliated sponsor. This increased regulatory burden and scrutiny led to the gradual shutdown of many NGOs, especially those with foreign and religious affiliations, impacting their ability to operate and provide services.
- Luo Renchun's first encounter with education and Christianity through Thanksgiving Workshop's summer camp.
- His challenges and triumphs in navigating life at a school for the blind.
- His early passion for learning English and his self-directed studies.
- The positive impact of the Thanksgiving Workshop and its volunteers on his life.
Shownotes Transcript