A magnitude 8.0 earthquake took place in China's Sichuan Province on May 12, resulting in over 32, 476 people dead and 220,109 injured so far. China will have a national mourning period from May 19 (Monday) to May 21 (Wednesday) for the victims of the earthquake both in China and at China's diplomatic missions abroad. During the period, National Flags are to be kept at half-mast, all public amusements suspended and condolence books opened in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China and all the Chinese embassies and consulates around the world.

To observe the mourning order, a condolence book is open in the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Chicago from 9:30 to 11:30 in the morning and from 13:30 to 16:00 in the afternoon on the above-mentioned days to receive condolence and respect for the victims from local people from all walks of life and the consular missions in Chicago.