By Joyce Kryszak
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-825066.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Propaganda was a favorite weapon of the Chinese Cultural Revolution under Chairman Mao. Many posters used images of students, proudly wearing red scarves, symbolizing their unity with Mao's Communist China. But the children in those posters were themselves the victims of propaganda. Ji-Li Jiang is the author of Red Scarf Girl. Her now classic 1997 memoir tells the story of Jiang's painful experiences growing up under Mao's rule. Jiang is touring schools throughout Western New York this week sharing her story. WBFO's Joyce Kryszak talked with the author about her life as a Red Scarf Girl.
Jiang was proud to wear her red scarf. And she was proud of Mao's China. But that all changed when the twelve-year old girl was forced to choose between her beloved country and her beloved father. Jiang shares her terrifying, difficult decision with students so they can learn how important their own decisions can be.
Click the audio player above to hear Joyce Kryszak's interview now or use your podcasting software to download it to your computer or iPod.