Candlelight Vigil Honoring UNC's Dr. Zijie Yan

Candlelight Vigil Honoring UNC’s Dr. Zijie Yan

Dr. Zijie Yan's Candlelight Vigil

8/30/2023

In memory of Dr. Zijie Yan, an associate professor at UNC-Chapel Hill, my office, alongside the NC Asian Americans Together (NCAAT) and the Chinese American Friendship Association of North Carolina (CAFA-NC), organized a candlelight vigil. We intended this vigil as an opportunity to collectively remember and honor the life of Dr. Yan, tragically cut short by an act of senseless gun violence.

I extend my gratitude to all the participants, including local officials, and the North Carolina and UNC community, for their unwavering support and for joining us in paying respects. This vigil provided a meaningful chance for everyone to come together and pay tribute to Dr. Yan’s influence.

I am also thankful for the moving stories that were shared about his life. These narratives serve as reminders of his positive impact and it is my sincere hope that Dr. Yan’s legacy will continue to resonate within our community, becoming a source of inspiration and strength that lives on.

I want to express my sincere gratitude for the following officials who attended the event and for honoring Dr. Yan’s great life.