April 22, 2006

Interrupting a public speaker with shouts, insults or catcalls is generally frowned upon, and for good reason. In a democratic society, one is able to express an opposing viewpoint in a variety of ways without being rude about it. But in China those ways are shut.

Which is why Dr. Wang's performance on Thursday is an exception to the usual rules of decorum and decency. Just as President Bush finished introducing Chinese President Hu Jintao during a ceremonial visit to the White House, she began her protest.

"President Bush, stop him from killing," she shouted from the camera platform. "Stop persecuting the Falun Gong," she said, referring to the outlawed religious [group] in China of which she is a member. "President Hu, your days are numbered," she said in Chinese. "No more time for China's ruling party."

The verbal lashing went on for about three minutes before Secret Service agents could muzzle her. During that time, Mr. Hu continued his speech, though clearly he was upstaged by a common citizen -- what would generally be considered a "loss of face" in Chinese society.

Back in China, where the ceremony was televised live, albeit with a short time delay, the state-run media censored Dr. Wang's protest. More's the pity, but it's also the point. Dr. Wang was speaking for those who cannot. She has been charged with disorderly conduct, whereas in China such an outburst is a certain ticket to prison.