Persecution Causes Indignation

Out of a sense of responsibility, practitioners from California and the Western United States initiated introducing Falun Dafa and telling about the current persecution in China to the candidates who were running for public offices. To our surprise, we received overwhelmingly strong feedback and support. This is a summary of what some candidates said about Falun Gong" and the persecution:

Don J. Grundmann (Candidate for House Representative, District 13, CA):

I can assure you that I will raise this issue whenever possible and that I will do all that I can to stop this outrageous and disgraceful persecution. I would greatly appreciate it if you will keep in touch with me regarding any future developments in this situation as the mainstream press can be quite inadequate in reporting the full and needed details of this appalling situation. I have responded to it by contacting the Chinese Embassy to register my protests against their actions.

Tom Campbell (CA, US Senator, Republican):

Thank you for your letter. I continue to be concerned about the rights of Falun Gong.

Randy Williamson (Candidate for city council, El Cajon, San Diego County, CA):

I believe governments serve the citizens, not the other way around.

I believe all U.S. elected officials have a responsibility to stand up against "hooligans, bullies, corrupt governments, etc." I may not directly have the ability to impact Falun Gong in their fight against oppression, however, I also believe in harmony in the Universe. If enough right-minded individuals, like you and I, work to fight oppression, that magic thing called karma often works miracles.

Ann Waltonsmith (Candidate for City Council, Saratoga, CA):

Thank you for writing to me about this very important issue. I am very concerned about the repression of civil rights and the lack of freedom of expression in China. As an individual citizen, I have stated my concerns in the past. As for what we on the City Council can do, I will pass on your letter to the Mayor, Stan Bogosian. The Mayor has suggested that a City Proclamation for the support of civil rights and the protection of those who practice Falun Gong would be appropriate. I will support that and vote to approve. I will be happy to speak out on this very important subject. Good luck to you on your work to support the struggle for freedom in China. Please keep me informed of how your movement is doing.

Tony Zidich (Treasurer, City of Daly City, California):

No thinking person can or should condone, support or accept human rights violations of any kind, let alone those that show this kind of cruelty and sadism. As the Treasurer of a small municipality, there is little I can do in an elected capacity but as a human being, I can and will speak out against these abuses of human rights.

Carl Dugger (Candidate for Washington State-House District 17-1):

I support Falun Gong and all other religious or philosophical groups who are fighting for freedom of statement and freedom of religion. Count me in. Also, if elected I would be willing to sponsor a supportive resolution in the Washington State House. Keep in touch.

Western US practitioners (November 12th, 2000)