China’s human rights violations may seem far from our minds when compared to the growing attention on trade relationships, but in reality, this issue is impacting upon the conscience and lives of many Australians.
On December 10, 2004 (International Human Rights Day) a court case has been listed for a Status Conference in the Supreme Court of NSW. Ms Zhang Cuiying, an Australian citizen and renowned artist, has filed a lawsuit against China’s former leader, Jiang Zemin and his Gestapo-like ‘610 Office’, for torture.
During her visit to China in 2000, she was illegally arrested and detained in prison for writing an appeal against the persecution of Falun Gong, a traditional exercise and meditation system based on the principles of ‘Truthfulness, Compassion and Tolerance’. This peaceful practice has been suppressed in China since 1999 due to its immense popularity. Throughout Ms Zhang’s incarceration, she was continually subjected to the most inhuman treatment.
This ongoing campaign of state-run terrorism not only affects millions of innocent citizens in China, but also tramples upon the freedom and morality of every civilised society, directly impacting Australians and all of humanity. We hope that justice will soon prevail.
Gerard
Buderim, Qld.
Posting date: 27/Dec/2004
Original article date: 27/Dec/2004
Category: Open Forum
