FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 2006

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi Statement on Sentencing of Chinese Activist Chen Guangcheng

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the sentencing of Chen Guangcheng, a blind civil rights activist who defends the rights of the poor and disabled in China and organized a class-action lawsuit against the government for forcing peasants to have late-term abortions and sterilizations.  Chinese authorities have imprisoned him and subjected him to physical abuse without access to a lawyer or medical assistance.

“Today’s harsh sentencing of Chen Guangcheng is a stark reminder that the Chinese government does not respect the rule of law or the basic rights of the Chinese people.  Chen Guangcheng is a champion of the Chinese people, and his brave actions should be praised by the government instead of persecuted.  Chinese authorities should acknowledge the exposure of official abuses and immediately and unconditionally release him from prison.

“There is a new wave of social unrest in China as the people attempt to gain redress against the government.  The Chinese people are demanding accountability, but Beijing has only responded by tightening its political control.  Tens of thousands of prisoners of conscience remain in China’s prisons today because they dared to express their thoughts, their beliefs, or their prayers.  We cannot ignore their plight.  The United States must show resolve in standing up to Beijing and demonstrate that we believe the Chinese people deserve freedom.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi