The New York Times recently published a series of articles on Aug. 16 that sought to portray Shen Yun, a classical Chinese dance and music performance, in a negative light. Shen Yun is well-received as it tours the world each year.
However, the articles quickly expanded to include the Falun Gong spiritual movement, showcasing the publication’s bias and potential attempt to stir up animosity. The severity of the persecution faced by Falun Gong practitioners in communist China was downplayed, with the forced organ harvesting from living detainees being referred to as a mere “claim.”
Despite substantial evidence emerging since 2006 regarding this medical abuse, The New York Times seems to turn a blind eye to the issue. In 2016, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.Res. 343 condemning forced organ harvesting targeting Falun Gong prisoners of conscience. The European Union’s Parliament also expressed a similar stance in Written Declaration 48 in the same year. Moreover, the China Tribunal, led by Sir Geoffrey Nice KC, concluded in 2019 that Falun Gong is likely the primary victim of forced organ harvesting in China.
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In 2016, Didi Kirsten Tatlow, a reporter for The New York Times, attempted to investigate and report on the killing of Falun Gong practitioners for their organs in China. However, the publication hindered her efforts, indicating a lack of support for her pursuits.
According to Tatlow’s testimony before the 2019 China Tribunal, The New York Times seemed displeased with her focus on organ transplant abuses and eventually made it challenging for her to continue her investigative work.
Furthermore, The New York Times seems to criticize the Falun Gong group for exposing the atrocities they face, suggesting that “attacking the Chinese government has been a dominant theme.” However, why should victims of persecution not speak out against their oppressors?
Falun Gong practitioners have long understood the oppressive nature of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), even before it became widely recognized in the West. Many other groups and governments have also voiced opposition to the CCP’s actions, recognizing the dangers posed by initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.
The success and growth of Shen Yun appear to be a primary source of contention for The New York Times. Celebrating a performing arts group that attracts millions of live audience members annually should be encouraged.
Teaching principles of truth, compassion, and tolerance—core tenets of Falun Gong—is a positive contribution in a world filled with turmoil and change. Respecting individuals’ faith and beliefs, especially in the face of persecution, should be a priority for journalists.
As millions of Falun Gong practitioners in China continue to suffer under the oppressive regime responsible for various atrocities, the international community should show solidarity and empathy instead of aligning with the CCP’s narrative through defamatory articles.
If the Chinese government fails to suppress a spiritual group like Falun Gong, it should be seen as a victory for freedom. Standing with persecuted individuals is a longstanding tradition in the United States, and the media should play a role in amplifying their voices and advocating for justice.
It is crucial for The New York Times, and other media outlets, to provide a platform for Falun Gong practitioners to share their experiences of persecution. By offering a fair and unbiased representation of their struggles, the media can demonstrate compassion and support for victims of long-standing oppression.
Opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
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