Letter of Support from Member of Parliament Jason Kenney to Canada's Prime Minister Jean Chretien

(Clearwisdom.net)

September 30, 2002

Rt. Hon. Jean Chretien, PC, M.P.

Prime Minister

309-S Centre Block

House of Commons

Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

Dear Prime Minister,

I am writing on behalf of constituents of mine who have raised serious concerns about the treatment of Falun Gong practitioners in China.

I am appealing to you to raise this issue with President Jiang at your earliest convenience. Following China's crackdown in 1999, nearly 455 practitioners have been tortured [to death] and the persecution is still escalating.

As a country that values human rights and democracy, I believe that Canada must not remain silent in the face of China's campaign to discredit Falun Gong -- a peaceful movement. The persecution of Falun Gong attacks the fabric of being Canadian, in other words, respect for the right to practice the religion of one's choice.

For the benefit of the world community, I urge you to oppose the intolerance of the Chinese government at the upcoming world leader's summit in Mexico City.

Sincerely,

Jason Kenney

Member of Parliament