Human Rights Torch Relay

Today, I won unanimous approval for a resolution I sponsored supporting the Human Rights Torch Relay.

This is part of an international effort to help raise awareness about and change the inhumane, unjust and oppressive practices of the Chinese government. This group, which is advocating human rights in China and using the Olympic games as way to focus international attention on this issue is made up of a broad coalition including

The Human Rights Torch Relay began months ago in Athens.

The Relay will be in the Twin Cities on Thursday 4/16/2008. Here is a statement from the coalitions coordinator and an outline of the activities planned for that day. I hope to present out littel resolution of support at Coffman Union around noon.

"As the Beijing Olympic gets closer Human Rights violation by the Chinese Communist Regime is in escalation. Chinese military forces opened fire to Tibetan protesting monks and civilians in Lhasa on Friday, March 14. Hundreds of Falun Gong Adherents Arrested in "Preparation" for Olympics.

"Hosting the Olympics is an honor few nations are granted. In 2001, Communist China was awarded the right to host the 2008 Summer Olympics— with the condition that it improves its human rights record ahead of the Games. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has, instead, escalated its human rights abuses, which include rampant political incarcerations of so-called dissidents and journalists, forced abortions, illicit organ harvesting, and religious and ethnic persecution. In addition, countless families have been forcibly removed from their homes in preparation for the Olympics.

"In light of this, the Coalition to Investigate the Persecution of Falun Gong (CIPFG) initiated the Human Rights Torch Relay. The relay began in Athens last August and has traveled to Europe, Australia/New Zealand, South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It will eventually span six continents, scores of countries and at least 150 cities. The relay has garnered the support and participation of concerned individuals, church leaders, government officials, civic and professional groups, as well as non-profit organizations committed to universal human rights.
Here in Minnesota we are forming a coalition with non-violent and powerful efforts to end the CCP human rights violation.

Please join us.
Thank you very much for your kind attention.
Sincerely,
Akiko Tsutsui
Human Torch Relay MN Coalition"


April 16th Wednesday.
Tentative plan
9:00a.m. to Noon
1: Relay Run/walk/wheelchair by each participating> group/individuals from Capitol to Coffman Front.
2: Coffman Front : Networking 10:00-11:00

Noon -1:00p.m. Coffman Front Main Rally: speakers and messages
1:30-3:30 : Round Trip Walk/Wheelchair between Coffman via Washington Bridge Carlson –with Banners, signs demanding Human Rights in China.



I am sure your participation in any of these events would be wlecome.