On September 29, 2024, the USC U.S.-China Institute hosted a workshop at the Huntington’s Chinese garden, offering K-12 educators hands-on insights into using the garden as a teaching tool. With expert presentations, a guided tour, and new resources, the event explored how Chinese gardens' rich history and cultural significance can be integrated into classrooms. Interested in learning more? Click below for details on the workshop and upcoming programs for educators.
Please Vote For Me
PLEASE VOTE FOR ME captures an entertaining snapshot of the politics within a classroom election between three eight-year olds and is one of the most insightful and enjoyable documentaries of the year.
Where
Time: 5:45PM, Run time: 58 min.
Language: Mandarin w/ English subtitles
Winner of the Sterling Audience Award at the AFI Silverdocs Film Festival, PLEASE VOTE FOR ME is one of the most insightful and enjoyable documentaries of the year. In a school of Wuhan, China, it’s time to elect a class monitor. Three 8-year-old contenders are chosen to square off: an incumbent known for his harsh dictatorship, the smart yet shy girl, and the class clown. While their parents coach and strategize as the free election approaches, the children face their fears and their challengers in a no-holds-barred series of classroom debates. The election elicits betrayals, tears and laughter, revealing the hardships of campaigning and the lessons of dealing with defeat.
In this immensely entertaining snapshot of a culture going through change and the growing pains of their children, Weijun Chen’s expertly crafted film will have you on the edge of your seat as the winner is announced. – Natalie McMenemy, AFI FEST
Click here to read a review of Please Vote for Me
Featured Articles
Happy Lunar New Year from the USC US-China Institute!
Events
Ying Zhu looks at new developments for Chinese and global streaming services.
David Zweig examines China's talent recruitment efforts, particularly towards those scientists and engineers who left China for further study. U.S. universities, labs and companies have long brought in talent from China. Are such people still welcome?