Pelosi Statement on Sentencing of Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Leaders
December 2, 2020
Contact: Speaker's Press Office,
202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after pro-democracy leaders Joshua Wong, Agnes Chow and Ivan Lam were sentenced to 13.5 months, 10 months and 7 months in prison, respectively, for their role in protests in Hong Kong, with the possibility of longer sentences for additional charges:
"China's brutal sentencing of these young champions of democracy in Hong Kong is appalling. This injustice is clear proof that Beijing will stop at nothing to stamp out dissent and to destroy the freedoms and real autonomy guaranteed to the people of Hong Kong.
"The United States Congress on a bipartisan and bicameral basis remains seriously concerned about the alleged mistreatment of Joshua Wong in prison, including his placement in solitary confinement. At the same time, we are disturbed by the prospect of China pressing additional charges against these activists, which could result in additional years of jail time.
"The United States Congress has always spoken with one voice in defense of those oppressed by Beijing and in support of freedom, justice and real autonomy for the people of Hong Kong. We call on all freedom-loving people around the world to join us in denouncing this unjust sentencing and China's widespread assault on Hong Kongers."
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