NTDTV Chinese New Year Spectacular
Voices of Support
Facts of the Persecution
Practitioners Exchange Insights and Experiences
People's Hearts Determine Their Future
Traditional Chinese Culture
(Clearwisdom.net) Ms. Lin Xilin, born in 1935, majored in law in college. She is a former reporter for China Youth Daily. In 1957, Mao Zedong personally referred to her as a typical "Rightist." The Chinese Communist Party put her in jail for 15 years. In 1979, the CCP redressed all the "rightists" in China. However, Deng Xiaoping mandated that five of them could not be redressed. Ms. Lin was one of the five. The other four have passed away. Thus, Ms. Lin is known as "the last Rightist in China." She moved to France in 1983 and now lives in the USA.
Ms. Lin Xiling began her literature and art career at a young age, and is famous for being "the last Rightist in China." She has now watched the Divine Performing Arts shows four times. Right before Christmas of 2007, after watching Holiday Wonders in New York for the second time, Ms. Lin was deeply moved and she felt her hope for the future returning. A week later, Ms. Lin's memories and feelings from the show were still fresh in her mind and she gladly accepted our interview. Her words came from the bottom of her heart. The following has been compiled from the interview recording.
Ms. Lin Xiling on December 24, 2007, attending Holiday Wonders for the second time
My parents were both "Shanghai Style" artists. My father had a good voice, and was a fan of theater and Chinese opera. He used to carry me on his shoulders to go watch Master Mei Lanfang's performances. My mother was born in an educated family and her career was as a music teacher and writer. I had a good artistic education growing up. I joined the army performing troop when I was only thirteen years old. I was very capable and could play many musical instruments, sing, and direct. I watched countless performances in China, by Chinese or international performers. After going into exile, I watched many premier international shows in Paris, Sydney, and Vienna, but the Divine Performing Arts shows moved my heart like nothing has before.
A Longing Fulfilled- "Divine Performing Arts" Displays the Serene Beauty of Heaven and Man As One
I have been wondering, "What attracted me to watch the Divine Performing Arts shows repeatedly? What touched my soul so deeply?" I think on the surface, it manifests the beauty of heaven and earth.
The show displays solemn divine kingdoms, the graceful Qing Dynasty palace, and the current China proper. It shows righteousness conquering evil. It also displays images from the great Tang dynasty battlefield, to the flower blossoms of the Southern China water townships, to the dreamy realms of Western musical serenades. The high-tech three-dimensional scenery creates perfect visual effects that guide the audience through a cultural journey that transcends time and space.
In the opening program, "Descent of the Celestial Kings" when the Lord Buddha comes down from the cosmos riding on an Imperial chariot, those heavenly horses flying over the audiences' heads with their huge wings flapping, filled people with hope that the Lord of Buddhas has come to save sentient beings with mercy. In "Hou Yi Shooting down Nine Suns," as nine birds fly in the sky, one by one turning to burning suns, the orchestra music helps express the beings (and the audience) living in terror with no where to hide. "Lady of the Moon," represented to me a realistic large, cold Moon Palace. How these great stories were displayed so gorgeously on stage is beyond my imagination!
I used to long for heaven and man to be one, and I used to pray for heaven and man to be one, but this dream was getting more and more blurry. The Divine Performing Arts shows manifest the serene beauty of heaven and man as one which I have long dreamed of, but could not see. Behold, under the Tianshan Mountain, known as a land of magical power and gifted talents, innocent young maidens dance with yellow dresses, handsome young men dance with sincere warm energy...what a Western China folk art painting! Under the snow-covered Changbai Mountain, green rice fields, scattered farmers' houses, young Korean people are praising the mercy of God. This is the long unseen serene beauty of heaven and man becoming one.
Divine Performing Arts Redefines the Harmony between Masculine Strength and Female Charm
"Drummers of the Tang Court" carries clear flowing rhythm, manifests the true Chinese spirit of a pillar of strength, vital livelihood, and fills one with a surge of energy. The drumming is exciting, and chases away the dark clouds. It powerfully moves the audience with its mighty righteousness. Sometimes the drumming is soft and slow, raising people's hope and happiness. When the drumming ends with its sound in unison, shaking the universe, people's hearts are filled with sunlight and there are no shadows. Suddenly I realized that these young men are the embodiment of "masculine strength."
The great Tang dynasty was the most splendid time in Chinese History. The Tang Dynasty's men, to me, can "catch a tiger on the mountains and seize a dragon in the ocean." They are full of masculinity, confident calm, and follow their pursuit of virtue with a solid will. I thought that in modern China, after more than 50 years of Communist rule, that our nation's backbone has been broken. Where can you see strong men with inner peace? A true man that can "carry virtue with iron shoulders" is hard to find, but the Tang Dynasty Drummers thoroughly display the Chinese men's spirits, and allowed me to see hope for our nation's renaissance.
I also have to mention the dance "Water Sleeves." My mother is from Southern China, and I lived in Southern China almost half of my life. The scenery displaying the Southern China water townships is so bright and graceful. The lake is clean, there is a little curved bridge, and colorful flowers...this is the hometown that I remember in my dreams!
Girls as pure flower buds dance in between the clear springs and flowers. Their steps are as soft as clouds flowing on water, and as a breeze on the surface of a lake. They are like water fairies. The quiet and elegant movements soothe people's hearts, and the pure clean minds bring tears to people's eyes. They used water sleeves shedding flower pedals, fanned the spring breeze, and led the audience to dance together with them in the clouds. When the music ends, the girls leave softly, but their divine spirits still echo in the audiences' minds.
The divine Performing Arts redefines the harmonious grace of male strength and female charm.
Divine Performing Arts Awakens the Best in Humanity
As an Erhu player, I highly recommend Ms. Qi Xiaochun's "Redemptive Suffering." It is the most piercing and soul stirring Erhu performance I have ever heard. I was so moved that tears ran down my cheeks. I used to like "The Moon Mirrored in the Second Spring Pool" composed by Hua Yanjun, and "Groaning in Illness" by Liu Tianhua. However, from Ms. Qi's "Redemptive Suffering,"I experienced an overpowering sense of mercy. The compassion is beyond description, surpassing all, and can save all the miserable people in the world. Ms. Qi's "Redemptive Suffering" is the best Erhu piece and is unprecedented in both ancient and modern times.
Also, the superior composer, conductor and orchestra that bring divine music to the audience, the marvelous tenor and soprano who communicate to the audience with their sincere hearts, the elegant host and hostess who are so humorous, but genuine...I deeply admire all of them.
Divine Performing Arts has succeeded at blending both Eastern and Western traditional cultures, and has created the new true human culture. It has awakened the best of humanity, and guides mankind to ascend.
(To be continued)
January 6, 2008
(Clearwisdom.net) The Divine Performing Arts company was warmly welcomed by the audience at the Boston Opera House for their January 10th performance of the Chinese New Year Spectacular.
Thomas Koch, the mayor of Quincy, Massachusetts issues a proclamation for the show.
The Swedish consul in Boston comes to the show with her husband.
Representatives of the Taipei Culture and Commerce Office and the Massachusetts government come to the show.
Mr. Cohen, the mayor of Newton, Massachusetts (left), Lin Aidi (middle), the chair of Chinese Art Association and Chen Yulu (right), the director of the art association, come to the show.
Tom Ashbrook from WBUR on Point is talking to Mr. Dai Dongni, a famous artist.
Several elected officials including Thomas Menino, the mayor of Boston, US Congressman James McGovern, US Congresswoman Niki Tsongas, and the city council of Boston sent congratulatory letters, or issued proclamations honoring the show.
The State Legislature of Massachusetts issued a proclamation to the organizers of the show to praise their contributions to promotion of Chinese culture and positive values.
The mayor of Quincy, Thomas Koch issued the proclamation at the reception before the show.
The Swedish consul in Boston highly praised the show for its beautiful music, dance and costumes.
Many local Chinese artists, including Bei Ling, the chief editor of a local magazine, Chen Yulu, the director of Chinese Art Association, Lin Aidi, the chair of the association, Chu Ling, the chief of a local dancing performing arts troupe, Zhou Chuntang, the former dean of Huafan College, and Wang Shangqin, a local author, came to the show and gave it high marks.
Alex, a doctor from Newton, MA, was amazed by the show. He liked the dances and costumes very much. His favorite dance was "Flowers on the snow mountain," which gave him spiritual encouragement.
Malisiu from Tufts University came to the show with his mother and daughter. He was glad to give his daughter a chance to learn Chinese culture.
Jasmine, a student from New York, speaks fluent Chinese. She said: "I am very happy to see such a good show, especially in my hometown--Boston. I like Chinese culture, which is very profound."
Al, an engineer from Newton, MA, said the show is unique. His favorite program was the drum dance. He said the actors are very professional. He would like to recommend the show to his friends and take them to it this weekend.
(Clearwisdom.net) The Rodriguez family, including grandpa Jose, mother Esmeralda and Melissa, decided to go see the Chinese New Year Spectacular after hearing about it on the Internet. The show by the Divine Performing Arts at the Nokia Theatre gave them an unforgettable night.
Rodriguez family in Nokia Theatre
Grandpa Jose said his favorite was the dance "Water Sleeves," which brought to life the waves and ripples using fans and long pieces of silk.
Melissa's mother Esmeralda said her favorite was the "Drummers of the Tang Court." She was very touched by the program about the persecution of Falun Gong. She said, "I have heard about the persecution, but the performance made me feel their suffering. It made me realize how valuable human rights and the freedom of belief are. Because there isn't any over there. I am very sad for their suffering. I thank you very much for presenting all this to us."
Esmeralda
Melissa said, "It is very sad when some people are suffering, and others don't know about it. It is also a pity when you tell others about it (the persecution of Falun Gong), and they don't get it or don't want to hear it."
Melissa
Esmeralda said, "I liked the idea of good being rewarded and evil being punished, and people standing up against unfairness." Melissa added, "As the host said, 'It is easy to break one chopstick, but a bunch of chopsticks are unbreakable.' I have learned a lot from this show."
(Clearwisdom.net) Boston welcomes the Divine Performing Arts (DPA) this winter. The premiere on the evening of January 10, 2008 brought genuine happiness to the audience. Many said the program was great, and some said it was too short, that two and a half hours wasn't enough.
Editor: "I Like Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance Presented in the Show"
Beatrice Mendez, a media editor in Boston, happened to run into a ticket selling station when doing Christmas shopping. She bought tickets for herself, her husband and her mother-in-law. After watching the show, she said the costumes were gorgeous and program very educational. She learned a lot about traditional culture. The backdrop blended into the show, and it looked like celestial maidens were flying on stage. She was interested in the portion of the show which depicted the persecution of Falun Gong in China. She said, "I liked the Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance presented in the show."
Beatrice's husband said, "It seemed to be very short. Two and a half hours isn't enough."
Food technician Elizabeth Painter and her friend
Food Technician: "Beyond Imagination!"
January 10 happened to be the birthday of food technician Elizabeth Painter's friend. She bought a ticket to the show as a birthday gift for her friend.
Elizabeth said, "It is beyond imagination! It is wonderful! I liked every story and every song. The costumes are gorgeous! It is way beyond my expectations. It is a wonderful birthday gift. My friend was very touched. I will tell all my friends. This is incredible!"
Mr. Lin Aidi, chairman of Chinese Art Association and head of a classical Chinese dance troupe
Chairman of Chinese Art Association: "I Will Tell Them (Students in His Dance Troupe) To See It."
Mr. Lin Aidi, chairman of the Chinese Art Association in Boston, and his wife watched the show. Mr. Lin said, "On hearing the announcement that the next program is Chopstick Zest, I thought it would certainly be women dancers. But it turned out to be men dancers. Woah! It was great!... It is very hard to accomplish that. It must take a lot of rehearsing to perform such neat movements. The movements were exactly to the rhythm. It wouldn't have been possible if they had practiced off and on." Mr. Lin was also very touched by and impressed with the spiritual stories. He said, "It is absolutely wonderful! I will tell them (students in his dance troupe) to watch it. They will come tomorrow and the day after."
(Clearwidom.net) The Divine Performing Arts company will hold several performances of the Chinese New Year Spectacular in Canada. The first will be held in Ottawa on January 13, and then in Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary. Following greetings from the Prime Minister and Governor General of Canada, several ministers of the Canadian government also sent congratulatory letters to the show recently.
Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day wished a happy New Year to the Chinese people and a big success to the show on TV. In a televised speech, he said that Chinese-Canadians should be proud of the contribution they make to the multi-cultural diversity in Canada and be proud of their traditional Chinese values. He said the Chinese-Canadians have made Canada more beautiful and stronger.
Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day
Finance Minister and Minister Responsible for the GTA, Jim Flaherty, wished the NTDTV audience a happy New Year.
He said, "Canada has become the destination of choice for people from every corner of the world, especially China. And our country is a much richer place as a result. New Canadians have made a lasting positive impression on our social fabric and a significant contribution to our national economy."
"Communication, of course, is critical. It allows us to share our culture and foster a better understanding between communities. New Tang Dynasty Television has played an important role in this regard, providing Chinese Canadians with programming in their own language."
He pointed out: "The strength of Canada comes from its diversity. It comes from the invaluable contribution made by people like you, each and every day."
Finance Minister and Minister Responsible for the GTA, Jim Flaherty
Congratulation letter from Jim Flaherty
The Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity, Jason T. Kenney, said in his letter "On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, I applaud New Tang Dynasty Television for its commitment to bringing Chinese arts and culture to all Canadians."
He said, "With shows in 50 cities throughout five continents--and 21 Canadian performances--this increasingly popular celebration of the Chinese New Year highlights China's rich culture and traditions. It also demonstrates how sharing one's cultural heritage leads to better understanding and communication among people of all backgrounds. In so doing we grow in our knowledge of one another and enrich our collective culture."
Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity, Jason T. Kenney
Kenney's letter
(Clearwisdom.net) NTDTV's Chinese New Year Spectacular will be performed at the Boston Opera House on January 10-12, 2008. On this special occasion, US Congresswoman Niki Tsongas from Massachusetts wrote a gracious "thank you" note to the Falun Dafa Association of New England for Hosting the Chinese New Year Spectacular in Boston.
House of Representatives
Washington, DC
Niki Tsongas
Fifth District, Massachusetts
January 10, 2008
Dear Friends:
First and foremost, I am delighted to wish you, your families and friends a Happy New Year. I also would like to thank Falun Dafa Association of New England for hosting tonight's Chinese New Year Spectacular.
Celebratory times such as tonight, allow us to reflect on what the past has presented us, and what our future holds. It is my sincerest hope that the Year of the Rat provides us all with opportunities for peace, prosperity, health and happiness.
Once again, on behalf of the 5th Congressional District of Massachusetts, Xin Nian Kuai Le!
Sincerely,
Niki Tsongas
Member of Congress
(Clearwisdom.net) NTDTV's Chinese New Year Spectacular will be performed at Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre in the The Denver Performing Arts Complex on January 11-12, 2008. In recognition of the Chinese New Year Spectacular, Denver Mayor John W. Hickenlooper issued the following proclamation:
City and County of Denver
Proclamation
Whereas, New Tang Dynasty Television (NTDTV) is an independent, non-profit Chinese language TV broadcaster established by overseas Chinese, and;
Whereas, New Tang Dynasty Television's (NTDTV) mission is to work for a better tomorrow where more people can enjoy peace and freedom and live harmoniously among different races and beliefs; and
Whereas, New Tang Dynasty Television assists Chinese people outside of China to adapt and assimilate to mainstream society and contributes to pluralism and free flow of information in the Chinese-language media; and
Whereas, New Tang Dynasty Television seeks to revive authentic Chinese culture, bridge eastern and western cultures, and provide accurate information about a range of issues relevant to a Chinese-speaking global population and to people everywhere who are interested in Chinese culture and society, regardless of race and ethnicity; and
Whereas, The New Year is one of the most important and colorful celebrations for Chinese and Asian communities throughout the world; and
Whereas, New Tang Dynasty Television's (NTDTV) Chinese New Year Spectacular in Denver offers a great way to celebrate the momentous occasion, bringing the audience the essence, the true spirit of Chinese culture expressed in the forms of classical performing arts, giving people a deeper understanding and connection to the Chinese culture and fostering understanding between Chinese and Western cultures; and
Whereas, The 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular will feature the Divine Performing Arts group, whose mission is to rediscover the essence of true, traditional culture and to bring arts that celebrate human dignity and positive values; it produces and performs works that center on classical themes and divinely-inspired cultural traditions; the group's performances aim to provide an experience of consummate beauty and goodness; and
Whereas, The 2008 Chinese New Year Spectacular will tour 50 major cities worldwide having an expected live audience of 500,000 with over 8,000 in Denver alone.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOHN W. HICKENLOOPER, MAYOR of the City and County of Denver, Colorado, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby officially encourage citizens to recognize the valuable contributions that the Asian communities bring to our culture, communities and nation, and wish everyone a Happy Chinese New Year.
IN WHITNESS OF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City and County of Denver to be affixed this first day of January, 2008.
John W. Hickenlooper
MAYOR
(Clearwisdom.net) The Chinese New Year Spectacular, performed by the Divine Performing Arts, will be staged at the Boston Opera House, Boston, Massachusetts, on January 10-12, 2008. Mayor Lukes of the City of Worcester, MA, issued a proclamation to honor the show.
Mayor Konstantina B. Lukes of the City of Worcester
Whereas, The City of Worcester is pleased to honor the Falun Dafa Association of New England in recognition of its tireless efforts to bring Chinese-language media and culture to individuals throughout the world; and,
Whereas, The inspiring and rousing events of New Tang Dynasty Television's Chinese New Year Spectacular have thrilled audiences throughout the world for years, and the tradition will continue from December 18, 2007, to February 9, 2008, the Chinese New Year Spectacular, and Chinese New Year Splendor performances in Boston; and,
Whereas, The celebration of the Chinese New Year pays tribute to the members of all Chinese communities whose significant contributions of their customs, language, and ethic values have brought pride and spirit to their local communities, this State, this country, and this world; and,
Whereas, Reaching via satellites to the United States, Australia, Asia, and Europe, the praiseworthy mission of New Tang Dynasty Television is to promote the understanding of Chinese culture, to provide viewers with accurate information to enrich their knowledge and lives, to foster understanding between Chinese and Western societies, to assist Chinese people outside of China to adapt and assimilate to mainstream societies, and to contribute to the pluralism and free flow of information in the Chinese-language media; and,
Whereas, The strength and success of the City of Worcester and our American society depend, in great measure, upon the distinctive and sterling qualities demonstrated by our various ethnic groups and organizations, exemplified by New Tang Dynasty Television, which share with us their rich and unique heritage; now, therefore,
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City of Worcester recognizes the New Tang Dynasty Television, notes its significant contributions, and joins in the celebration of the Chinese New Year.
Konstantina B. Lukes
Mayor
(Clearwisdom.net)
A Housewife from Pengjia Village Was Arrested and Her Family Property Confiscated
Ms. Shu Lian is from Pengiia Village, Liqingu Town, Dingzhou City. She is about 39 years old. On November 17, 2007, the local police of Liqingu Town barged into her home and confiscated her family's property. They took away Dafa books and truth-clarification materials. They also confiscated her New Tang Dynasty TV antenna. They arrested her and took her to the Liqingu Town Police Station. She is being held in detention.
Several days ago, when Ms. Shu clarified the truth about the persecution of Falun Gong to villager Peng Pingfu, Peng reported her to the local police. On November 17, Shu Lian was called to the village head's office and forced to write a guarantee statement. She clarified the truth to the village head and then was arrested.
According to an insider, Peng Pingfu later received 500 yuan as a reward for reporting Ms. Shu.
Ms. Xu Tongyan from Liqingu Village Was Arrested and her Family Property Confiscated
Just before October 1 (China's National Day holiday), Liqingu Town police barged into Ms. Xu Tongyan's home, confiscated her family property, illegally arrested her, and took her to the police station. That night she was hung up and beaten by police officers while she was handcuffed. Later, with righteous thoughts, she escaped.
Liqingu Town head deceived her family and said, "Have her come home. We guarantee it will be all right." Her family members believed him, so Ms. Xu was found, and she returned home. The Liqingu Town police promptly arrested her and still have her in detention.
Because she continues to explain the truth about Falun Gong, Ms. Xu has been repeatedly persecuted. When the Chinese Communist Party first started to persecute Falun Gong on July 20, 1999, Xu Tongyan was held in the detention center for more than 30 days and 700 yuan was extorted from her. From 2000 to 2002, she was "illegally imprisoned" in the Chinese Communist Party Institute and taken to Erzhi Brainwashing Center three times and the detention center twice. More than 1,300 yuan was extorted from her. During this period, villager Cheng Xiaodong and the village security staff also extorted a "deposit fee" of 250 yuan.
Zhang Yaxun, Liqingu Town Communist Party Secretary: 86-312-2602868 (Office), 86-312-2352758 (Home), 86-13931352929 (Cell)
Su Yuelan, Liqingu Town head: 86-312-2602335 (Office), 86-312-2565966 (Home),
86-13703360166 (Cell)
Kou Xijun, Liqingu Town Police Station chief: 86-312-2602213 (Office),
86-312-7904336 (Home)
An Yongchun, Liqingu Town Police Station political head: 86-312-2327736 (Office)
Cheng Zhanhui, Liqingu Town Police Station deputy chief: 86-312-2386968 (Office)
Mingyuedian Town Police Arrested and Beat Ms. Hao Cuiqin, a Peasant from Dongluojiatong Village
Just before the October 1, National Day, officials from the Mingyuedian town government and the local police station of Dingzhou City sent a bunch of people to Dongluojiatong Village to arrest Ms. Hao Cuiqin. They took her to the local police station and tried to force her to curse Dafa and Master. She refused, so they beat her and then took her to the detention center, where she remains to this day.
Chen Jianlong, Mingyuedian Police Station chief: 86-312-2642324 (Office),
86-312-2337856 (Home), 86-13333127236 (Cell)
Yang Junping, Mingyuedian Police Station political head: 86-13582201818 (Cell)
Zhang Kai, Mingyuedian Police Station deputy chief: 86-13070531219 (Cell)
Two Housewives Were Arrested in Gaopeng Town
Ms. Wang Yueqing from South Gaopeng Village and Ms. Zhao Jinru, about 40 years old, from Liujia Village were arrested by Gaopeng Town Police Station officers before October 1 because of their "illegal appeal." They were both detained in Dingzhou Detention Center.
Gaopeng Town Police Station personnel Yang Xinquan, Zhu Huiming, and four others participated in their arrests.
Zhao Jianbin, Gaopeng Township Party Secretary: 86-312-2723666 (Office),
86-312-2395568 (Home), 86-13703283291 (Cell)
Zhang Jiqiu, Gaopeng Town head: 86-312-2722008 (Office), 86-312-2686861 (Home),
86-13931267258 (Cell)
Zhu Huiming, Gaopeng Police Station chief: 86-312-2722057 (Office),
86-312-2311836 (Home), 86-13315238068 (Cell)
Liu Xiaoyong, Gaopeng Police Station political head: 86-312-2583806 (Office),
86-13931386026 (Cell)
Zhang Zhanjun, Gaopeng Police Station deputy chief: 86-312-2620216 (Office),
86-13070508669 (Cell)
Mr. Zhang Shouying, 63 and Disabled, Was Arrested In Dongneibao Village
Around 1 p.m. on October 6, 2007, Ziwei Town Police Station chief, police officers, the Dongneibao Village public security director, and village militiamen rushed into the home of practitioner Mr. Zhang Shouying in Dongneibao Village, Ziwei Town. They confiscated his family property, taking away a TV, satellite antenna and receiver, a damaged compact disc, and audiotapes. They took Mr. Zhang to the Dingzhou Detention Center.
Mr. Zhang Shouying is 63 years old. He lost his right arm in an accident years ago. He had many diseases before cultivating Falun Dafa. He had tumors on his waist and his nose. He also had stomach problems. He was very thin and weak. Through practicing Falun Gong, his tumors disappeared, and he became very strong. He is capable of most types of labor in the field. Because of his own experience, he firmly believes in Dafa and strictly follows Dafa's standard of "Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance" to guide his behavior. He is a good person that is well-known in the village.
Yu Zhanwen, Ziwei Town Party Secretary: 86-312-2667168 (Office),
86-312-2392560 (Home), 86-13832238538 (Cell)
Zhang Xin, Ziwei Town head: 86-312-2668966 (Office), 86-13303323616 (Cell)
Zhang Wei, Ziwei Police Station chief: 86-312-2667459 (Office), 86-312-2319079
(Home), 86-13582249085 (Cell)
Zhao Jingchang, Ziwei Police Station political head: 86-312-2585555 (Office),
86-13582829888 (Cell)
Fu Lihui, Ziwei Police Station deputy chief: 86-13930846688 (Cell)
The Arrest of Mr. Jia Minying from Dingningdian Village
At the end of August 2007, Mr. Jia Minying from Dingningdian Village, Dingzhou City, went to the market to distribute "truth-clarification" materials. He was arrested.
In January 2001, Mr. Jia was illegally detained by Dingningdian Town government officials. 2,500 yuan was extorted from him. In the fall of that same year, he was taken to Erzhi Brainwashing Center and had 350 yuan extorted from him.
(Clearwisdom.net) On June 27, 2007, Falun Dafa practitioner Ms. Song Xiaotang from Tianheng Town in Jimo City, Shandong Province, was arrested and taken to the Wangcun Forced Labor Camp in Zibo City, Shandong Province. Several days later, she was tortured to the point of unconsciousness. Guards took her to the hospital and restrained her with handcuffs and leg shackles. Hospital personnel then gave Ms. Song injections while two female guards, Duan Cuiping (the team leader) and Yan Guizhen, sat on her legs to hold her down.
In September, Ms. Song called out "Falun Dafa is good" and held a hunger strike to protest the persecution. The guards retaliated by placing her in solitary confinement and handcuffing her to the wall. They also force-fed her and tortured her by leaving the feeding tube in her stomach for an extended period of time. Political Director Wang Hua (female) then threatened her, saying, "We will give you five more days. If you continue this behavior, we will send you to prison."
The torture left Ms. Song's entire body swollen and in great pain, and her hands trembled violently. The team leader still pressured her to work in this condition, but Ms. Song refused. The team leader shouted,"If you have the strength to hold a steamed bun at mealtime, you have the strength to work."
Wangcun Forced Labor Camp, Division Four (where Ms. Song Xiaotang is being
held): 86-533-6689414
Division Director: Wang Huiying (female)
Political Director: Wang Hua
December 24, 2007
(Clearwisdom.net) On November 29, 2007, between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., two groups of police from the Shuozhou City Police Department, Shanxi Province, were sent to arrest Falun Dafa practitioners. One group arrested Ms. Ma Ruizhen, who lives in the family compound of the city's party commission. The other group arrested Ms. Zhu Cuiying, who lives in the family compound of the Shuocheng District Bureau of Industry and Commerce. The police ransacked their homes, took away their computers, printers, and other personal items. Ms. Ma Ruizhen and Ms. Zhu Cuiying are now imprisoned at the Shuocheng District Detention Center in Shuozhou City.
Ms. Ma Ruizhen is 55 years old. In May 1993, she had gallstones, which led to surgery to remove her gallbladder and part of her liver. She fell into poor health - her entire spine had bone spurs which caused pain throughout her whole body. She lost a lot of weight. Later, she started practicing Falun Dafa. She regained her health and felt like a new person after practicing for only two weeks..
In the Spring of 2000, Ms. Ma went to Beijing to appeal for justice for Falun Dafa. She was arrested. The local police took her back to Shuozhou City and imprisoned her at the Shuocheng District Detention Center for a month. After her release, officers from the Shuozhou City Police Department, State Security Division, as well as Liang Zheng (male, retired now) and Tian Shengyu (male, retired now) from the Shuocheng District Political and Security Office often went to her home to harass her during their days off.
Ms. Zhu Cuiying, 48, is a employee of the Shuocheng District Chinese Medicine Hospital in Shuozhou City. She used to have great pain from rheumatoid arthritis. She even went through treatments, but saw no improvement. Her pain went away after she started practicing Falun Data in April 1999.
Ms. Zhu went to Beijing to appeal for justice for Falun Dafa in March 2000. She was arrested and imprisoned at the Shuocheng District Detention Center for 24 days. In November, 2000, the director of the hospital, Li Shangwu (male, retired now), refused to let her work, withheld her salary, then went on to reorganize so that she no longer had a position at her job, and further suggested that she be sent to the forced labor camp. Ms. Zhu has been denied payment of somewhere between 20,000 and 30,000 yuan.
In October 2003, Ms. Zhu went to the government offices to demand any documentation which they might have to keep her from working. The personal in the 610 Office passed responsibility back and forth. Ultimately, hospital Director Li Shangwu had to restore her position. Ever since her appeal, she has been harassed at home and at work by Liang Zheng (male), Tian Shengyu (male) from the Shuocheng District Policy and Security Office, as well officers from the State Security Division.
December 25, 2007
(Clearwisdom.net) Two Falun Gong practitioners from Daqing City were recently persecuted by the police from Honggang District Police Department. Ms. Li Yajie, 58, was illegally arrested and Ms. Su Guifan, in her sixties, was forced to leave home to avoid being persecuted.
Ms. Li Yajie is a resident of the Zuoyelou Area, which is part of the 4th Oil Production Factory in the Honggang District. On December 17, 2007, when she was leaving her house in the afternoon, she was arrested. Later that afternoon her daughter realized that she was missing and tried to look for her. She eventually discovered that her mother had been arrested. At around 11:00 p.m., the police came again, ransacked the residence, and took Falun Gong books. Ms. Li is being held at the Daqing City Detention Center.
On that same day, at around 3:00 p.m., the police barged into the Fifth Area of the 4th Oil Production Factory. Ms. Su Guifan was not at home at the time, so the police failed in their arrest attempt. That night, one female and four male police officers came with an arrest warrant and once again barged into the residence, but they were also not successful. Ms. Su's aged mother (in her nineties) was so frightened that she couldn't stop trembling. The authorities took away a few Falun Dafa materials. Ms. Su Guifan cannot return home or she will be arrested.
Responsible parties:
Honggang District Police Department in Daqing City:
Sun Huacheng, police chief: 86-459-6687388, 86-13329503004 (Cell),
86-13836709004 (Cell)
Yang Shuguo, political head: 86-459-4992312, 86-13329504005 (Cell)
Dong Ming, deputy police chief: 86-459-6295977, 86-13836709088 (Cell)
Hou Bin: 86-459-4991077, 86-13836709016 (Cell)
Liu Wenlong, deputy police chief: 86-459-6782517, 86-13836709222 (Cell)
Wang Deyi, section chief: 86-459-4990591, 86-13836709139 (Cell)
Police officer in charge of Zuoyelou Area of the 4th Oil Production Factory, Yang Xiaodong
Honggang District 610 Office
Fan Shuoxiang: 86-459-4197338 (Office), 86-459-6781099 (Home)
Xia Hongbin: 86-459-4192165 (Office)
Yang Jin: 86-459-4197388 (Office)
Zhang Xiaodong: 86-459-4197388 (Office)
Mr. Xi: 86-459-6786500 (Home)
December 27, 2007
(Clearwisdom.net)
Chief Lei Kejin (male) of Second Team, Seventh Ward of Xishanping Labor Camp in Chongqing City, along with manager Qin (male, given name unknown), blatantly instigated drug addicts (all male) Wen Huaguo, Liu Bo, Liang Gu, Feng Xin, Zhao Disheng and others not named, to force Falun Gong practitioners Mr. Deng Liping, age 63, Mr. Li Wenlong, mid forties and Mr. Ren Chechuan, 36, from Xipeng Town, Chongqing City to write so-called three statements denying their beliefs.
Food deprivation, violence, threats, and sleep deprivation are among the methods used to coerce the practitioners to recant their beliefs. Wen Huaguo struck Deng Liping's with an iron bar. The drug addict, Chen Kang (male, from Yuzhong District, Chongqing) stepped on the chests of Falun Gong practitioners Mr. Pan Yuanjun and Mr. Deng Baishou. He struck their backs with his elbow, forced them to squat for two hours, forced them to clean the toilet and wash clothes, and extorted money from them.
Practitioner Mr. Ren Chechuan was beaten by inmates Li Zhi, Luo Ping and others. Guards led by Meng Shuping (male) incited criminal Hu Bing (male, age 33) to beat practitioners. Extorting money from practitioners was widespread in the entire Seventh Ward. Lei Kejin and Ward chief announced that it was unlawful to extort money, but in reality, they condoned and actually instigated the drug addicts to commit these deeds.
Falun Gong practitioner Mr. Gu Xianglin from Qijiang County, Chongqing, was tortured with food deprivation, beatings, and verbal abuse by prisoners (all male) Dabao Shashi (nickname), Ma Gang, Feng Xin and so other unnamed prisoners. They shoved Mr. Gu Xianglin's head down into the toilet while he was cleaning the restroom. As a result of the torture, Mr. Gu Xianglin became extremely thin. Inmate Zhuo Bo (male) from Nanchuan District, Chongqing poured cold water on Falun Gong practitioner Mr. Cheng Changjun's (teacher of the18th middle school in Chongqing) while asleep in his bed, and forced Cheng to sleep in the wet bed.
December 2007, Zhuo Bo poured cold water on Falun Gong practitioner Mr. Wang Zhihai because he was snoring in his sleep. Because of his snoring, Mr. Wang was frequently beaten by the drug addicts.
For several days, drug addict Qiu Lin (male) kicked Falun Gong practitioners or beat them with bamboo blocks, or electric wires. Mr. Luo Jiaoyu (from Liangping County, Chongqing), unable to complete a task as ordered, was whipped by Qiu Lin with an electric wire and kicked, causing bleeding in his chest. Practitioner Mr. Zhou Qingyu was beaten by Li Liang (male). His neck was injured, but he was denied medical treatment.
Xishanping Labor Camp: 86-23-88090079, manager's last name is Jiang
Second Team, Seventh Ward: 86-23-89090025, headquarter: 86-23-89090038, Ward
Chief: Tian Xin (male) who mistreated Falun Gong practitioners before
Longju Police Station, Wanzhou District, Chongqing City: 86-23-58632110
Manager Yan Zuojun, policeman Sun Yuxiang specifically in charge of persecuting
Falun Gong
(Clearwisdom.net)
Today's News from China includes incidents of persecution that took place in 13 cities or counties in 11 provinces. In this report, 13 practitioners were subjected to mistreatment during their detention and at least 12 practitioners were illegally arrested.
[Xixia City, Shandong Province] Mr. Wu Zhangguo Arrested
[Wanyuan City, Sichuan Povince] Ms. Song Xiangqiong Taken to a Brainwashing Class
[Beijing] Ms. Jiang Huiping from Shiyuan Primary School in Shunyi District Arrested at Home on December 1
[Wuhan City, Hubei Province] The Wuchang District Court Unlawfully Planned a Trial for Ms. Sheng Hongyan
[Jidong County, Heilongjiang Province] Ms. Qiu Shufeng Arrested
[Yushu City, Jilin Province] Ms. Xiong Guirong and Wang Tingzhen Arrested
[Wuhan City, Hubei Province] Mr. Zhang Shifeng Unlawfully Transferred to a Brainwashing Class the Day His Labor Camp Term Expired
[Beijing] Ms. Wang Xiufeng Unlawfully Sentenced to Two Years in a Labor Camp
[Heilongjiang Province] Mr. Han Xingrong Unlawfully Detained at the Lanxi County No. 1 Detention Center
[Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province] Mr. Zhou Zhencai Persecuted at a Brainwashing Class
[Yingtan City, Jiangxi Province] Six Practitioners Arrested by the National Security Team
[Shulan City, Jilin Province] Practitioners Including Mr. Meng Xiangfu Arrested
[Botou City, Hebei Province] Practitioner from Hao Village Arrested by the Hao Village Police Station on December 2
[Zibo City, Shandong Province] Ms. Che Aizhen Taken to a Brainwashing Class
[Jidong County, Heilongjiang Province] On the Morning of December 3, Ms. Qiu Zhifeng from Xinyi, Jidong County Arrested at Her Home
[Siping City, Jilin Province] More Information about Practitioners Who Were Arrested on July 13
[Jilin City, Jilin Province] The Situation of Several Practitioners Who Are Being Persecuted
[Liaoyang City, Liaoning Province] Ms. Liu Yanwen Severely Persecuted
[Jilin City, Jilin Province] Mr. Zheng Fengxiang Was Unlawfully Arrested for the Second Time
[Donggang City, Liaoning Province] Married Couple Pan Changxin and Sun Shuying Arrested
[Dalian City, Liaoning Province] On November 30, 2007, Ms. Liu Dalian Forcibly Taken to the Yaojia Detention Center in Dalian City
[Lingshu County, Shandong Province] Ms. Li Xia Arrested
[Tangshan City, Hebei Province] The Persecution of Ms. He Nuxian
[Jizhou City, Hebei Province] Mr. Zhang Huiguang Unlawfully Jailed at the Shijiazhuang City No. 4 Jail for Seven Years
[Zhaoyuan City, Shandong Province] Ms. Xu Chunxi and Her Daughter Persecuted
[Huainan City, An'hui Province] Several Practitioners Held in Jail at Huainan Detention Center
[Tianjin] Ms. Yu Jianhua from Xiqing District, Tianjin Was Sentenced to One Year of Imprisonment and Sent to the No. 3 Team of the Banqiao Women's Forced Labor Camp in Dagang
[Weifang City, Shandong Province] Practitioners Mr. Fan Yuying and Xiang Changfeng Have Been Sentenced to One and a Half Years of Imprisonment
[Chongqing City] In October 2007, Ms. Gao Yunxia from Changshou District, Chongqing City, Sentenced to Three and a Half Years of Imprisonment
1. [Xixia City, Shandong Province] Mr. Wu Zhangguo Arrested
Mr. Wu Zhangguo had been clarifying the truth to drivers when he was working at the Transportation Goods Station at Laiyang City. On November 29, the police of the Laiyang National Security Team went to his workplace to arrest Mr. Wu Zhangguo. Meanwhile, they confiscated his personal computer, truth-clarifying materials, around 2,000 yuan in cash, and his cell phone, etc.
2. [Wanyuan City, Sichuan Povince] Ms. Song Xiangqiong Taken to a Brainwashing Class
On November 26, the Wanyuan City 610 Office, the City Public Security Bureau led by Ye Xudong, and a dozen of plainclothes policemen who followed him, broke into Ms. Song Xiangqiong's home and forcibly took her to the No. 3 Brainwashing Class at the Da County Military Section of Sichuan Province.
On November 27, the Wanyuan City 610 Office and Ye Xudong went several times to the home of a practitioner named Ms. Wang Mingying at the 513 Electricity Factory to harass her. At around 10 a.m. on November 30, when Ms. Wang Mingying went home to get her clothes, she was seized by Ye Xudong, who had been waiting for her for many hours. Ms. Wang Mingying was sent to the Da County Military Section Brainwashing Class.
The phone number for the Da County Military Section Brainwashing Class: 86-818-2382767
Wanyuan National Security Team: 86-818-8610125
3. [Beijing] Ms. Jiang Huiping from Shiyuan Primary School in Shunyi District Arrested at Home on December 1
4. [Wuhan City, Hubei Province] The Wuchang District Court Unlawfully Planned a Trial for Ms. Sheng Hongyan
5. [Jidong County, Heilongjiang Province] Ms. Qiu Shufeng Arrested
Ms. Qiu Shufeng, a practitioner from Hada Town, Jidong County, was arrested by police from the National Security Team in Jidong County at around nine o'clock on December 3.
6. [Yushu City, Jilin Province] Ms. Xiong Guirong and Wang Tingzhen Arrested
At around 8:00 p.m. on November 29, police from the Qingshan Village Police Station at Yushu City went to several practitioners' homes to harass them, forcing them to write a statement renouncing Falun Gong. The police arrested Ms. Xiong Guirong and Ms. Wang Tingzhen and unlawfully detained them at the Yushu Detention Center.
The Qingshan Village Police Station: 86-431-83055110
The Director of the Detention Center, Hu Tieying: 86-431-83611857: 86-431-83669366,86-13630530077
7. [Wuhan City, Hubei Province] Mr. Zhang Shifeng Unlawfully Transferred to a Brainwashing Class the Day His Labor Camp Term Expired
Mr. Zhang Shifeng, 53 years old, was arrested by the police on October 27, 2006. He was later taken to the Hewan Forced Labor Camp in Wuhan. On December 3, 2007, he had finished serving his term. At around 8:00 a.m., the Hanyang District 610 Office and the police took Mr. Zhang Shifeng directly from the forced labor camp to the Taojialing Brainwashing Class and continued to persecute him there.
8. [Beijing] Ms. Wang Xiufeng Unlawfully Sentenced to Two Years in a Labor Camp
On August 5, 2007, Ms. Wang Xiufeng, a practitioner over sixty years old from Huangtupo Village, Hebei Town, Fangshan District, Beijing was arrested by the Hebei Town Police Station and the Fangshan National Security Team. Her home was unlawfully searched, and she was sentenced to two years in a forced labor camp. Currently she is being detained at Beijing City Forced Labor Camp in the Prisoners Transportation Section.
9. [Heilongjiang Province] Mr. Han Xingrong Unlawfully Detained at the Lanxi County No. 1 Detention Center
Mr. Han Xinrong, Ms. Mao Shuhua, Ms. Liu Shanshan, and Mr. Yu Zhongjie have been jailed at the Lanxi County No. 1 Detention Center for over three months. So far the detention center has refused to release them.
10. [Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province] Mr. Zhou Zhencai Was Persecuted at the Brainwashing Class
Mr. Zhou Zhencai was unlawfully detained before he was sent to the Changli Brainwashing Class and maltreated there for more than one month. Afterwards, on October 25, he was sent home.
11. [Yingtan City, Jiangxi Province] Six Practitioners Arrested by the National Security Team
On October 8, practitioners including Ms. Cao Weihong were followed by the Yingtan National Security Bureau. Shortly thereafter Mr. Cao Weihong, Ms. Huang Lanqin, Ms. Peng Ying, Ms. Wang Xin, Mr. Ai Guoxiang, and Mr. Huang Hongqiang were arrested by the Yingtan Public Security Bureau. Their personal blongings at home were confiscated. When being interrogated, the practitioners were beaten up by the military police with their heads were covered. Currently they are being detained at Yingtan Public Security Bureau Detention Center and the Yingtan Railway Detention Center.
12. [Shulan City, Jilin Province] Practitioners Including Mr. Meng Xiangfu Arrested
On November 19, 2007, Mr. Meng Xiangfu, Ms. Chen Qinglan, and Mr. Dong Libiao were unlawfully arrested. They have been detained for more than fifteen days from November 19 to the date of this report.
13. [Botou City, Hebei Province] Practitioner from Hao Village Arrested by the Hao Village Police Station on December 2
14. [Zibo City, Shandong Province] Ms. Che Aizhen Taken to a Brainwashing Class
In the evening on November 29, five to six policemen suddenly broke into Ms. Che Aizhen's home to unlawfully search and videotape her home. They also confiscated her Dafa books. On the next day, Ms. Che Aizhen was illegally taken to the Zibo City Zhangdian 610 Office Brainwashing Class.
15. [Jidong County, Heilongjiang Province] On the Morning of December 3, Ms. Qiu Zhifeng from Xinyi, Jidong County Arrested at Her Home
16. [Siping City, Jilin Province] More Information about Practitioners Who Were Arrested on July 13
Practitioners Ms. Hu Yuxian and her husband Mr. Song Jinyu, were unlawfully detained at Gongzhuling. Ms. Li Fengqin was detained in Shuangliao. Mr. Qian Yongsheng is being detained in Yitong County. Mr. Xu Guodong and Mr. Meng Qingbo have been unlawfully sentenced to two years in a forced labor camp. Currently they are being held in jail at the Chaoyanggou Forced Labor Camp in Changchun.
17. [Jilin City, Jilin Province] The Situation of Several Practitioners Who Are Being Persecuted
The Jilin City Public Security Bureau, the Procuratorial Institute and Court intended to have an unlawful trial for Ms. Feng Guirong, Mr. Huang Guanyu, Mr. Li Hailong, Mr. Liu Chengda, and Ms. Wang Ying, as well as others. Mr. Zhao Guoxing, Mr. Wang Liqiu, Ms. Mu Chunhong, and Ms. Liu Yuhe were all sent to the Heizuizi Jail or the Gongzhuling Jail. As a result of the severe persecution, Ms. Zhao Yingjie developed disease symptoms and the Jilin City Public Security Bureau sent her to the hospital of the Changchun City Public Security Bureau.
18. [Liaoyang City, Liaoning Province] Ms. Liu Yanwen Severely Persecuted
In mid-October 2007, Ms. Liu Yanwen from Hongwei District, Liaoyang City was arrested by the Nonggong Police Station and taken to the Liaoyang City Detention Center. During her detention, Ms. Liu Yanwen went on a hunger strike to protest the persecution. She was very weak physically, and she was sent to the Liaohua Hospital for rescue. Afterwards, she was sent back to the detention center for further persecution.
19. [Jilin City, Jilin Province] Mr. Zheng Fengxiang Unlawfully Arrested for the Second Time
On July 3, 2007, Mr. Zheng Fengxiang was arrested for the second time for going to the Changjiang Road Police Station to ask for the return of his money that had been taken unlawfully.
20. [Donggang City, Liaoning Province] Married Couple Pan Changxin and Sun Shuying Arrested
On August 1, 2007, Mr. Pan Changxin and Ms. Sun Shuying were arrested by policemen led by Wang Runrong from the Donggang City National Security Team. Currently Mr. Pan Changxin has been sent to the Benxi City Forced Labor and Re-education Camp, and Sun Shuying was sent to the Masanjia Forced Labor Camp in Shenyang City.
21. [Dalian City, Liaoning Province] On November 30, 2007, Ms. Liu Dalian Forcibly Taken to the Yaojia Detention Center in Dalian City
22. [Lingshu County, Shandong Province] Ms. Li Xia Arrested
At the beginning of December 2007, Ms. Li Xia was followed by someone while she was giving out the truth-clarifying materials, and she was arrested. Currently she has been sent by the 610 Office to the Linqi City Brainwashing Class.
23. [Tangshan City, Hebei Province] The Perscution of Ms. He Nuxian
On November 21, 2007, Ms. He Nuxian, a practitioner of Tangshan was dismissed by her employer, the Tangshan City Broadcasting and TV College because she refused to renounce Falun Gong.
The President and the Secretary General, Wang Zhenquan: 86-315-7214023
24. [Jizhou City, Hebei Province] Mr. Zhang Huiguang Unlawfully Jailed at the Shijiazhuang City No. 4 Jail for Seven Years
Mr. Zhang Huiguang, a practitioner from Zaoyuancun, Jizhou City, was an employee of the Agricultural Bank at Shijiazhuang City. On December 15, 2000, he was sentenced to seven years for clarifying the truth and has since been jailed at the Shijiazhuang No. 4 Jail. His term should be finished on December 19, 2007.
25. [Zhaoyuan City, Shandong Province] Ms. Xu Chunxi and Her Daughter Persecuted
Ms. Xu Chunxi, a practitioner from Jinwangjia Village, Canzhuang Town, Zhaoyuan City, Shandong Province, is around forty years old. At about 11:00 a.m. on November 21, 2007, she was arrested by the Head of the Canzhuang Town Government, Canzhuang Town Police Station, and Zhaoyuan City 610 Office. She was then taken to the Lingnan Jinkuan Brainwashing Class at Zhaoyuan City. Her personal property including a TV, DVD, etc. were confiscated. Later they went to the No. 8 Middle School of Canzhuang Town to forcibly take into custody 16-year-old Ms. Wang Jiao, who is Ms. Xu Chunxi's daughter. The took the daughter to the Lingnan Jinkuan Brainwashing Class as well.
26. [Huainan City, An'hui Province] Several Practitioners Held in Jail at Huainan Detention Center
At noon on November 11, 2007, the Huainan City 610 Office and the public security bureau arrested several practitioners including Ms. Pan Yunxia, Ms. He Pinghua, Ms. Wang Mengxia, Ms. Wang Xiaohong, Ms. Xin Gonghua, Ms. Yang Weizhen, Ms. Zhu Yuzhen, and three other non-practitioners, Ms. Guo Lanlan, Mr. Wu Zhiwei and Ms. Xiao Yu. Currently they are being held in jail at the Huainan Detention Center. Ms. Zhu Yuzhen was released after she had been detained for fifteen days.
The phone number of the Huainan City Public Security Bureau: 86-554-6611028
Gong Yingmin, the Chief of the City Public Security Bureau: 86-554-6611198,
27. [Tianjin] Ms. Yu Jianhua, A Practitioner from Xiqing District, Tianjin Was Sentenced to One Year and Currently She Is Being Jailed at the No. 3 Team of the Banqiao Female Forced Labor Camp in Dagang
28. [Weifang City, Shandong Province] Practitioners Mr. Fan Yuying and Xiang Changfeng Sentenced to One and a Half Years
Mr. Fan Yuying, 53 years old, and Ms. Xiang Changfang, 52 years old, were arrested on October 23, 2007. After being held in jail at the Weifang City Detention Center for around one month, they were sent to the Wangcun No. 2 Men's Forced Labor Camp and the Wangcun No. 2 Women's Forced Labor Camp respectively. Their families were not allowed to visit them.
29. [Chongqing City] In October 2007, Ms. Gao Yunxia from Changshou District, Chongqing City, Sentenced to Three and a Half Years of Imprisonment
(Clearwisdom.net) A "solemn declaration" is a person's public statement declaring to the world that whatever he or she has done or said under duress or deception that was against Falun Dafa is null and void. Most of these statements have come from Falun Dafa practitioners in China who wished to express regret that, in the face of physical torture and brainwashing, they had signed documents renouncing Dafa and guaranteeing not to practice again. Also, as more and more people in China learn the truth about how they have been deceived and lied to by the Jiang regime, many non-practitioners are also submitting "solemn declarations."
Here are some examples of the Solemn Declarations:
Please click here for more Solemn Declarations
(Clearwisdom.net) Worshiping the efforts of other people is a manifestation of self-pity and a lack of a strong main consciousness. Teacher has warned us on many occasions that there are no role models for cultivation; every practitioner must walk his/her own path. But some people just like to worship the efforts of others. Whether it be a local assistant, someone who has escaped illegal arrest or imprisonment, someone who is more educated, someone who is more knowledgeable, or someone who has certain skills, some of us blindly obey and follow these people, and that, I feel, is wrong. Of course, we should learn from others, but we shouldn't follow others blindly.
There was a new practitioner who had dramatic physical improvements after she started practicing Falun Dafa. It made a big impact on non-practitioners around her. It was a good thing indeed and could have helped save more people. However, quite a few practitioners became misguided and started worshiping her. They used this new practitioner as their role model for everything. At the same time they became very attached to the idea that "Dafa can eliminate illness."
Nobody pointed out this attachment to the new practitioner or helped her to get rid of it. Later, she failed to maintain righteous thoughts. She was confronted with illness karma and was taken advantage of by the old forces; she passed away. This had a negative effect on the local environment. Besides the issue of this practitioner herself, one of the main reasons the old forces took advantage of her was the praise and worship from fellow practitioners, as well as their attachment to the wonders of her previous recovery.
Every practitioner knows that matter and mind are one thing, and that thoughts generated by the human brain have actual substance. Every thought a practitioner has is powerful. When one has righteous thoughts, the substance generated is pure. The energy he/she emits is powerful enough to destroy anything in the universe that is not righteous.
However, stray thoughts and human attachments also produce matter. If such thought or attachment is directed toward another practitioner, it could enlarge that person's attachment and human desire. When one person thinks like that, two people think like that, or more people think so, then a large amount of impure matter is sent toward this practitioner, and results in more tribulations and difficulties for him or her. It could make his/her test harder, and it might even destroy that person. Therefore, when a person has bad thoughts, not only can it interfere with his own cultivation, it can also interfere with other practitioners' xinxing. Isn't this problem very serious?
If everyone could follow Teacher's words in Teaching Fa to Australian Practitioners, if everyone is rational, controls one's main conscience, uses the Fa as the standard for everything including one's behavior, then blindly following others would not happen among practitioners.
These are my personal understanding, please correct me if you find anything wrong.
(Clearwisdom.net) I have practiced Dafa for just over two and a half years now and have spent most of my practice alone and separated from other practitioners. As a result I have formed different opinions about things and haven't been influenced by the group as a whole. This has obviously had both positive and negative results.
On the one hand, I have had very few people to share with, and I feel that my progress has been slow. I do not know many of the Chinese terms for Dafa things that other students use and am often left confused. Because they all communicate better than me, I am often left feeling like I'm on the outside looking in.
Because I don't often share with other practitioners, my main source of understanding comes from Master's Fa and the Clearwisdom website. This has led me to understand the importance of Fa study. Ever since I read Zhuan Falun the first time, I have read the book almost every day. I say "almost," because in my early days, I did not understand the true power of the book or the contaminating effect of ordinary society, and I gave the book to whoever expressed an interest in reading it. My thinking was that I was lucky to have read it, therefore my life was already saved. Sometimes I had to wait months before I got another copy.
Recently, after sharing with another practitioner who is going through and has been dealing with some tribulations in his cultivation for some years now, I began to speak with him about some things that Master said in some recent lectures. The practitioner looked blank. I then asked, half jokingly, if he had read all of Master's lectures and books. He replied to my surprise that he hadn't. I was shocked. I could not understand how a practitioner who has met Master on several occasions and been a part of Dafa for over five years could not have read everything Master left to guide us. I then spoke with another practitioner who confirmed that there were perhaps others who also hadn't read everything that Master left for us, but that by and large it was a minority. I was dumbfounded. I just naturally assumed that all practitioners would read everything Master has written, and not just once. I naturally assumed that all practitioners try every day to do the three things the best they can. After all, he is our Master. I know we cannot always do things well, but if we do not understand the Fa or how to handle the current situation, how can we do the three things well? I began to think about what it was that made me try to be diligent in this respect.
Because I was isolated from the group, I only had Zhuan Falun as my example and role model. Zhuan Falun is without attachment or misunderstanding. I began to realize the seriousness of Fa study. I decided to write this article to share some of my experiences and understandings with those practitioners who are not diligent, who are struggling to comprehend certain things, or who are newer practitioners.
The first thing is that you must study the Fa well. An ancient Chinese saying says, "Even a small kink in the road will eventually become a large bend if uncorrected." I have observed from my own experience that one day lost in Fa study takes three days to catch up. And what of the opportunities you miss while trying to catch up? It really is so precious. There are many things you can't sense in cultivation, but that does not mean you should not pay attention to them. Master has already stated in Zhuan Falun:
"So some people have formed a rigid concept, and think that only the things they see through their eyes are tangible and real, and they don't believe in what they don't see. In the past people always took these people to have poor comprehension. Some people can't explain why that's poor comprehension. 'He doesn't believe in what he doesn't see. That's perfectly reasonable.' But, when you look at it from a slightly higher level, it's not reasonable."
Just because you can't yet sense the importance of Fa study does not mean you should neglect it. Without correct Fa study you will struggle to do the three things correctly. Studying the Fa is such a small thing to do in an everyday person's eyes, but it is so important for us cultivators. The keystone is often the smallest brick in a bridge, but it is the one that holds the whole bridge together. I understand that reading the Fa may not seem as grandiose as truth clarifying activities or other things that practitioners do, but it is truly wondrous because it is from this that all other things shall flow.
Secondly, to practitioners with poor comprehension or newer practitioners, I would like to share an experience I had. Some of the things you may read in Master's lectures initially may seem good, and you may know they are good, but you may struggle to understand how they are true, and as such observe things on more of a theoretical level. Master has stated several times that he will allow practitioners to observe and experience certain things in order to increase their confidence and allow them to understand the true beauty and power of Dafa.
In "Teaching and Explaining the Fa at the Metropolitan New York Fa Conference," Master explained in answering a question about the construction of systems within us and how they correspond to our own cultivation. Master said,
"Actually, to microcosmic beings your cell is their planet. And it's not just cells--how many microcosmic particles make up a cell? A cell or a microcosmic particle in your image is the King of all beings in that particle, and all the countless beings in there are governed by it. If you don't cultivate yourself well your cells won't be well-cultivated; if you have cultivated yourself well your cells are well-cultivated, and the beings in the domain of your cells' jurisdiction are well-cultivated."
During the fifth exercise one day, I had the feeling of becoming very small. I was aware that it was not my physical body that was becoming small. I entered into myself and found myself in a beautiful valley surrounded by pastures and green hills on either side. As soon as I realized I had arrived there, a group of small children came running excitedly toward me. They were shouting a name that I knew was not my given name here on Earth but in this world meant King. They all hugged me and crowded round me, laughing and tugging at my robes. They all said how happy they were to see me and asked me when I would be returning. I sensed that they missed me very much. This place was so beautiful and the joy expressed by these children so pure, I found it quite stirring to the heart. I only stayed for a brief moment, but told the children I would return once I was successful in my mission. As I began to return to my normal size I realized I was not simply returning to the level on this plane. I began to ascend slightly higher and saw some wonderful scenes of other dimensions as well.
To my fellow practitioners, all of what Master says is truth, and all of what he asks us to do is for the best. All of the things he wants us to achieve are also the best. Please have steadfast faith in Master and Dafa, do the three things well, and save all sentient beings.
Please point out anything inappropriate.
(Clearwisdom.net) I am eighty-five years old. I started practicing Falun Gong in August of 2006. From my experience of practicing for this short period of time, I feel so fortunate and privileged to have the opportunity to cultivate in Dafa.
Quite a few years ago, my friend from the South introduced Falun Dafa to me, but I rejected it. The main reason was the propaganda of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which slandered Dafa. In China, all newspapers and TV stations spread lies against Dafa day and night. I was deceived. In retrospect, I regret that I wasted four or five years before beginning to practice. In early July of 2006, I went back to the Northeast and came to know that all Dafa practitioners were kind people. I found out the truth. I immediately began participating in Fa study and practicing the exercises. In October, my daughter also came back to the Northeast from the South, and she told me that my gray hair hair turned black. I had also noticed this. After only practicing for three months, I was so much healthier. It is truly a miracle of Dafa.
When I read the book Zhuan Falun, I felt the profoundness of the principles in my heart. Teacher explained everything so explicitly and thoroughly. It is truly a precious book from Heaven. When I read the second chapter on the Third Eye, I saw a black, round thing rolling in front of my eyes. Inside the ball, it appeared as if water was boiling. I was truly amazed. Later on I was able to see many different things, including golden, shiny spinning Falun. In addition, I practiced the exercises at 1:00-2:00 a.m. or 3:00-4:00 a.m. every day. Although it was silent at night, my heart was unmoved and my mind was very pure. I usually finished the exercises before dawn. I felt very light afterwards and truly came to know the magnificence of cultivating in Dafa.
Once when I was practicing the second set of exercises at around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday November 18, I suddenly felt that I was pushed from behind. I thought to myself, "Who pushed me in the dark?" I also heard a clicking sound. I then came to enlighten that Teacher was purifying my body, and then I was able to straighten up my back. This was truly a miracle. For many years, I had walked hunch-backed and felt truly miserable. I had seen doctors several times. The doctors told me that my vertebrate had deteriorated due to lack of calcium and old age, and that there was no cure. The only treatment was to take calcium-enriched food to prevent it from worsening. I took lots of calcium pills only to find out they were useless. After practicing Dafa, I no longer take medicine. Meanwhile, my view of life also changed. All of these are beyond my words to describe. I will never forget Teacher's compassion.
Due to my limited education, I can only briefly describe my experiences. Please correct anything inappropriate.
December 30 2007
(Clearwisdom.net) Huang Jiaguang was the general secretary of the CCP
Committee of Jiujiang Vegetable & Non-staple Food Products Company in
Jiangxi Province. He has persecuted the staff who are Falun Gong practitioners
since 1999. He also fired practitioner Yu Songsi. On the morning of October 6,
2007, Huang died in an auto accident Changhong Road in Jiujiang.
Chairman Gong Deyuan of the Hengyang Union in Henan Province also received
retribution because of his involvement in the persecution of Falun Dafa. He was
the head of the 610 Office in the Union, and often arranged
campaigns to force residents to sign statements against Falun Gong. Gong Deyuan
died suddenly at the age of 62 in the beginning of 2007.
(Clearwisdom.net) The Chinese guqin (a plucked, seven-stringed instrument in the zither family), chess, calligraphy and painting are the four essential forms of art that a Chinese gentleman in ancient times was required to master. The Chinese guqin, in fact, was a musical instrument that a Chinese gentleman would travel with in ancient times and that probably explains why a Chinese guqin was commonly associated with virtue, wisdom and gentility.
The music composed for the Chinese guqin manifests the profundity of Chinese culture, as it exudes a peaceful, graceful, noble and broad-minded style and transports its audience to an elevated and ethereal world. In ancient times Chinese gentlemen were marked by their high moral values and virtues and by their sincere efforts of doing their best in everything, including learning to master the Chinese guqin. There are many inspirational stories about Chinese gentlemen learning to play the guqin.
Shi Wen lived in the State of Zheng during the Spring and Autumn Period (770 - 476 B.C.). Shi Wen decided to seek discipleship under the famous guqin musician Shi Xiang when he heard that Shi Xiang's music was so appealing that birds would dance to its rhythm and fish in the pond would leap in tempo. Shi Wen then went to Shi Xiang's residence in the State of Lu to seek discipleship.
Shi Xiang agreed to take Shi Wen as a disciple and started by teaching him to tune the guqin and find the keys. However, Shi Wen's fingers were so stiff that he couldn't play one single score after three years of learning. Finally, Shi Xiang declared, "You lack talent for music and concentration in practicing." Shi Wen replied, "It is not that I cannot tune a guqin or find the keys. It is not that I cannot play a complete score. I am not concerned about just tuning, sheet music or rhythm. My true ambition is to express my heart with music! Before I can truly express my heart with music, I will continue to hesitate to touch the strings. Master, please give me more time and see if I can make some progress!"
In serenity, Shi Wen practiced daily and tried to feel the music with his heart while continuing to cultivate his mind. After a while, he went calling on Shi Xiang, who asked, "How is your playing these days?" Shi Wen replied confidently, "My music and heart are one now. Please allow me to present my music to you." Thus Shi Wen began to play the guqin. At first, he played the strings of Metal sound (according to the ancient Chinese Theory of the Five Elements, including Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth) and the music exuded the feeling of autumn. (In the Theory of the Five Elements, metal corresponds to autumn.) Shi Xiang felt as though a gentle autumn breeze was caressing his face and the scenery were turning into autumn gold.
Next Shi Wen played the strings of Wood sound, which exuded the feelings of February. (In the Theory of the Five Elements, Wood corresponds to spring.) Shi Xiang felt as though he heard a warm spring breeze in his ears and nature began to grow.
Next, Shi Wen played the strings of Water sound and expressed the feeling of November. In a short while, Shi Xiang felt as though he were surrounded by frost and snow and the rivers were frozen.
Next, Shi Wen played the strings of Fire sound and expressed the feeling of May. Shi Xiang felt as though summer had arrived and all the snow melted.
Before the music came to an end, Shi Wen played all the strings and made them intertwine in harmony. All of a sudden, Shi Xiang felt a gentle breeze and clouds in the sky gathered towards them. He felt as though an elixir had descended from heaven and a clear spring emerged from the ground.
Shi Xiang was absolutely delighted with Shi Wen's music and exclaimed, "You played wonderfully! You have transported me to your world of music and expressed true beauty!"
Shi Wen later became a famous musician in the State of Zheng.
The moral of the story is that the key to mastering the arts does not depend solely on skills, but on comprehending its meaning. Shi Wen set a good example for studying the meaning of music and persevering in elevating his virtue and quality of enlightenment. Lofty music does not come from mastering the strings. A true musician does not deliver music, but delivers his heart through the music. Everyone can deliver music, but that's the lowest realm of art. The highest form of art comes from one's heart. It's a realm in which only those who pursue it with a pure heart will understand. The significance of the Chinese guqin has surpassed music and become a symbol of traditional Chinese culture and ideal personality because only a true gentleman will be able to deliver his morality through the guqin. Truly beautiful music will echo in the hearts of the audience, for the musician touches the soul of the audience with his pure and beautiful mind.