US Citizen's Letter to the Judiciary Branch of Hong Kong, "it may set a precedent that also affects the perceptions of the international community"

Respectful Sirs and Madams of the Judiciary Branch,á

It is my understanding that the judicial system is one of the best ways to ensure that all people can feel free to prosper knowing that their rights are protected by a higher independent authority. This authority, then, must know the Law to the greatest extent in order to properly dispense justice. Of course, I don't know the specific laws of Hong Kong, but I do understand the intent of the "one country -- two systems" policy that guides Hong Kong governance.á

It is disconcerting to see pictures and hear news of the arrest and trial of 16 Falun Gong practitioners there in Hong Kong. They were accused of obstructing a public walkway and some were accused of assaulting the arresting police officers. Surely you know, as many around the world do, of the practitioners' peacefulness and law-abiding nature. There is also photographic and video evidence available to anyone on the Internet that clearly shows the true state of affairs. How sad that these innocent practitioners are now pawns in what looks more like a political scheme for China proper to not only persecute Falun Gong but also to usurp the rights of Hong Kong citizens and international visitors that are guaranteed by law.áá

And this happened shortly after 130 Falun Gong practitioners were forcefully deported from Hong Kong. Those practitioners were trying to appeal in front of government offices for an end to the persecution of practitioners in Mainland China. They had done all the legal procedures, had proper documents, yet some were tied up in bags and carried to the airport. Certainly this was already an international incident. á

Now I'm concerned that this trial has not been initiated or conducted in the best interests of the Hong Kong people and it may set a precedent that also affects the perceptions of the international community. I'm not so naive to think that every nation's judicial system is free of bias. However, I've experienced enough to know that there are still some people who maintain integrity, who challenge the status quo in order to meet the high ideals of the judicial system, who serve as reminders to us all that there is still true justice in this world. I sincerely hope that you are of those people and that you will continue to protect Hong Kong's lawful freedoms.á

I've visited your lovely country before and was impressed by the hospitality and genuineness of the people I met. I don't believe it would be the same were I to return to meet a people who are no longer free to be who they choose within the true limits of the law. Such a great responsibility you have! To yourself, to the Hong Kong people, to the rest of the world. May your hearts be moved by kindness and your minds by righteousness. Let the rest of the world see that there is still great honour and morality in the Chinese people regardless of the political systems under which they live.á

Sincerely,á

Tanya Harrison

A concerned US citizen