June 11, 2002 WASHINGTON, D.C. - Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-Petaluma) Wednesday chaired the Congressional Human Rights Caucus briefing about human rights abuses against the Falun Gong.

The briefing was designed to expose how followers of the Falun Gong have suffered in China and how the Chinese government has attempted to silence Falun Gong supporters in the United States.

The following is part of Rep. Woolsey’s statement:

“We are here to learn more about human rights abuses in China. We are all familiar with photographs and videos of protesters for democracy being brutally beaten in China’s Tiananmen Square. Upon seeing those images, the world cried foul. What doesn’t get nearly as much attention is the continued violent oppression of groups that want nothing more than to express peaceful beliefs.

“One of those organizations is Falun Gong.

“Falun Gong is a peaceful, spiritual organization whose adherents have become targets of the Chinese government. The worldwide movement has attracted millions of followers, many of them living in China, the United States and Canada. The group has moved to the forefront of the international movement pressing for more human rights in China.”

Rohnert Park resident, Mr. Leeshai Lemish, testified at the human rights briefing. Mr. Lemish is a Falun Gong practitioner that went to Tiananmen Square in November, 2001 to appeal for human rights in China. He was beaten by the Chinese police while trying to protect a female prisoner from sexual abuse.

“I feel privileged to be in the company of those who care about people’s freedom and justice wherever they are,” said Mr. Lemish. “Seeing more and more leaders around the world determinedly stand by our side during this difficult time truly moves my heart.”

Stan Bogosian, former Mayor of Saratoga told the congressional caucus “about the systematic attempt by the Chinese government to silence American elected officials who have taken a stand in support of basic human rights.”

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