[Minghui Net]

On Saturday March 10, Falun Gong practitioners from the areas of Epping and Sydney, were invited to the Sydney Funding Meeting held by the International Women's Rights Organization. This meeting was one of the activities planned in celebration of International Women's Day in Australia. Approximately twenty organizations and guests attended, and all who were present that day expressed their concern and sympathy for the bitter predicament of Falun Gong practitioners in China.

Jackie Kelly, Australian Federal Sports and Travel Minister, attended the meeting and presented the opening speech. Upon introducing Falun Gong, she said, "Their appearance has made me realize how privileged we all are. Living in Australia, any group has the liberty to do whatever they want, without restrictions from the government. We have the freedom of choice and freedom of expression. I truly feel honored to be living here."

Falun Gong practitioners asked Ms Jackie Kelly how we could handle the threats toward Australian citizens who practice Falun Gong, made by the Chinese Embassy in Australia, and the Sydney Chinese Consulate. Practitioners also told her about the letters slandering Falun Gong, which were sent to over 30 local councils. Ms Kelly expressed that she did not wish to see situations like this happen again. She had heard a lot about the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, and advised us that lately there are a lot of Chinese tourist groups visiting Australia. She said this might be a good chance to clarify the truth about Falun Gong to them, and hand out some information for them to take back to China.

Australian Falun Gong practitioners

13 March 2001