Iris Chang's legacy an inspiration to youth

BC Cook, a director and historian at the US maritime archaeology organization Sealark Exploration, reviewed Chang's Rape of Nanking in a recent article and praised how the book "energized the academic world" and sparked "healthy discussion" despite criticism and personal attacks from some Japanese scholars.

Betty Yuan, a friend of Chang's and a member of the Silicon Valley-based Alliance for Preserving the Truth of the Sino-Japanese War, recalled their first meeting at a Nanjing Massacre photo exhibition in late 1994 in Cupertino, California.

"She seemed so young when she told us she wanted to write this book. We wondered if she could accomplish such an ambitious task," Yuan remembered. "Three years later, she had created something truly impactful."

Chang's legacy continues through initiatives like the recent "Iris Chang, I Remember You" art and writing competition organized by the Hanlin Education Foundation, the Alliance for Preserving the Truth of the Sino-Japanese War and a few others. The competition has drawn international participation from the United States, China and Spain, featuring creative works from participants ages 4 to 16.

"The Power of One can profoundly influence a child's development," Yuan said. "Iris once worried about potential anti-Asian hatred. If we don't pursue truth and justice, historical tragedies could repeat themselves. Our goal isn't to promote hatred but to embody her spirit of speaking against injustice for future generations."

Frank Shau, 17, a senior at Independence High School in San Jose, was deeply moved after reading Chang's Rape of Nanking. "The personal accounts were devastating to read," he said. "I was shocked that such a significant historical event received so little attention in mainstream media or education."

As he prepares for college applications next year, Shau said he sees lasting value in his volunteer work at the Iris Chang Memorial Park and understanding of this history. "I plan to major in economics and political science. In both areas, you need to understand every part of the world, not just one perspective. Knowledge of Chinese history is crucial for a comprehensive view of world affairs," he said.