Statement by U.S. Congressman George Miller

Congress of the United States

House of Representations

Washington, DC 20515-0507

February 16, 2001

Statement by the Honorable George Miller

D-7-California

I am proud to lend my voice to a growing chorus of people condemning the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China. Falun Gong members have been outlawed and violently suppressed because of their personal faith by the Chinese Government. It is unacceptable here in the United States, or in any country, to persecute citizens who peacefully express their beliefs. The practice of the Chinese Government to jail and harm followers of the Falun Gong movement is intolerable and incompatible with international human rights' standards.

I support continued pressure on China to adhere to international human rights standards and end the persecutions of Falun Gong followers. The Chinese Government has a long history of restricting the free expression of spiritual movements and workers. I would hope that President Bush will make human rights, religious freedom and democracy a priority in any relations with the Chinese Government. As a member of Congress, I will do my part to ensure that the Falun Gong and others have the right to freely associate and peacefully express their personal beliefs, and I will oppose the actions of any government undermining this right.