CFU PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 3:00 PM ET
Sabrina Sohail: sabrina@campaignforuyghurs.org
(650) 703-4523
https://www.campaignforuyghurs.org
Campaign for Uyghurs (CFU) proudly supports Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) in their introduction of the Uyghur Genocide Accountability and Sanctions Act (UGASA). This crucial bill seeks to expand the imposition of sanctions under the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act of 2020 (UHRPA) to address the severe human rights abuses taking place in East Turkistan and counter the genocidal policies of the Chinese regime.
The UGASA encompasses a robust and comprehensive framework designed to hold the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) accountable for its heinous actions and safeguarding the rights of the Uyghur people. Key provisions within this bill include measures such as expanding sanctions under the UHRPA, denial of U.S. entry for individuals involved in forced abortions or sterilizations, ensuring physical and psychological support for Uyghurs and other Turkic groups, preserving their cultural and linguistic heritage, determination of sanctions criteria for certain Chinese entities, countering CCP propaganda on genocide, documenting atrocities, prohibitions on certain U.S. Government agency contracts, and mandating disclosures to the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding activities related to East Turkistan.
Senator Marco Rubio emphasized the significance of the bill, stating, “By building upon current legislation, this bicameral bill aims to enhance the enforcement of secondary sanctions on businesses that offer assistance to the Chinese Communist Party’s ongoing atrocities against the Uyghurs. As Beijing continues with its campaign of oppression against non-Chinese ethnic groups, we must uphold sanctions against Chinese authorities and companies responsible for acts of genocide.”
Senator Jeff Merkley highlighted the dire situation faced by Uyghurs and other ethnic groups, saying, “Uyghurs and other ethnic groups in Xinjiang are being tortured, imprisoned, forced into labor, and pressured to abandon their religious and cultural practices by the Chinese government. The United States must send a resounding and unequivocal message against genocide and slave labor wherever these evils appear. The horrifying surveillance, imprisonment, torture, and forced ‘re-education camps’ that Uyghur Muslims have been subjected to are appalling human rights violations, depriving millions of people of their liberty in an effort to strip an entire community of their culture and their past. This bill is a critical step in doing more to hold the CCP accountable for these atrocious abuses while taking actions to protect the victims of genocide.”
Executive Director Rushan Abbas, voiced her support, stating, “The introduction of the Uyghur Genocide Accountability and Sanctions Act is yet another significant milestone in our ongoing fight for justice. It symbolizes the very essence of our undying commitment to safeguard the rights, dignity, and indomitable spirit of the Uyghur people who have endured unimaginable suffering. This act is a cry for justice, piercing the darkness with the light of hope, as we fight tooth and nail to restore the shattered lives and stolen dreams of the Uyghur people. We will not rest until justice is served and the regime is held accountable.”
CFU commends Senators Rubio and Merkley for their unwavering commitment to the Uyghur cause. CFU stands united with them in urging Congress to pass the UGASA, taking a firm stance against the genocidal policies of the CCP and supporting the Uyghur people in their pursuit of justice and freedom. CFU also looks forward to Congressman Chris Smith’s (R-NJ) introduction of companion legislation in the House of Representatives. CFU urges individuals, organizations, and communities to join the movement, raise awareness, and advocate for the passage of this critical legislation.
