Testimonial from a New Jersey Falun Gong Practitioner

Honorable Council President Smith and council members:

As we were about to prepare this speech, we were shocked to learn of the cruel and heartless acts of terrorism against America that have caused massive loss of life. On behalf of Falun Gong practitioners and supporters in Jersey City, I extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families of the victims of this cowardly attack on the people of the United States, particularly those who live in Jersey City. We are against all acts of violence and hate, and some of us have registered to volunteer in case our services are needed.

This evil attack on America reminds us of the hate campaign and state terrorism against Falun Gong implemented by China's regime. Falun Gong, as you might know already, is a traditional peaceful cultivation and practice system for mind and body. It is based on the universal principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. Master Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Gong has been honored by officials in North America with over 300 proclamations and awards, and is a two-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee.

Since China launched a nationwide crackdown on Falun Gong on July 20, 1999, the violent persecution of millions of Chinese citizens has ensued. The U.S. State Department and Amnesty International have confirmed that China's regime is ordering the arrest, detention and torture of Falun Gong practitioners. We are especially disturbed by the recent report that Falun Gong practitioners in Nantong, sister city of Jersey City, were arrested and subjected to severe torture in the detention center and labor camp. Amnesty International and other human rights groups documented these closely.

As residents of their sister city, we believe that it is our responsibility to speak on behalf of those who cannot be heard, to bear witness on behalf of those who cannot testify, to protect those who put not only their livelihood but indeed their lives on the line.

We would like to thank Council President Smith for his support of Falun Gong practitioners in Jersey City and commend his initiative in proposing the resolution that is discussed this evening. We call on the officials of Jersey City to use all possible channels to send the message that Jersey City is strongly against the injustice and violations of human rights against Falun Gong practitioners.

Honorable Council President Smith and council members:

Our world needs peace and living beings need sincerity, kindness, and tolerance. We strongly believe that justice will definitely defeat the evil. Right now, all the kind-hearted people in the world need to work together, help each other, and support each other standing shoulder to shoulder.

Best wishes to Jersey City and the people of America that we will quickly recover from the shadow of disaster!

Thank you very much for your support of Falun Gong! Thank you!