We are writing on behalf of Jews Against Genocide, an activist group devoted to speaking out for victims of genocide regardless of ethnicity.  We staunchly oppose the inclusion of a float representing the Olympics to be held in the People's Republic of China in the Rose Bowl parade to be held in your city.

The role of the Chinese government in supporting the Sudanese government in the genocide in Darfur is well-documented. This has included financial support, military support in the sale of arms and political support by shielding the Khartoum regime from sanctions and from the introduction of UN forces to protect the people of Darfur by the Security Council.  In addition, the Chinese government has a long history of human rights violations including their shameful support of the military dictatorship in Burma and their oppression of ethnic and religious minorities in their own country.  This has included the ongoing oppression both of the Tibetan people and the jailing and execution of people simply for practicing their religion.  China is one of the few countries in the world where it is illegal to practice Christianity (as well as Buddhism, Islam and Falun Gong).  The outlawing of free speech and the opposition to the rule of law in China is also well-documented by human rights groups including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.  For all these reasons, we ask that you reconsider your inclusion of a Rose Bowl float for the Chinese Olympics.

Sharon Silber and Eileen Weiss, founders, Jews Against Genocide

Member group New York Coalition for Darfur

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