Pelosi Statement on Chen Guangchengs’ Escape from Chinese Detention

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today regarding the news of the escape of human rights activist Chen Guangcheng from detention by the Chinese government:

“The reports that Chen Guangcheng has escaped detention are a welcome development. It is my hope that the Chinese government will address his legitimate requests and that he and his family will be safe and soon have the freedom and liberty that they so rightly deserve. I am confident that the Obama Administration will take the necessary diplomatic actions to achieve an outcome that honors our nation’s values and sends a positive message of confidence for all of those that are struggling for human rights. We lose all moral authority in the world if we do not stand up for those in China and Tibet.”

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Background on Actions Taken by Leader Pelosi on Chen Guangcheng

Pelosi Statement on Arrest of Chinese Activist Chen Guangcheng, August 2006

Letter to President Hu Calling for Chen Guangcheng’s Release, July 2007

Letter to President Hu Calling for Chen Guangcheng’s Release, May 2009