Wednesday June 19, 2002

After reading The Record's article on June 14, "Kitchener Man Detained In Iceland," I feel I have to respond to show people other sides of the story.

Falun Gong (Falun Dafa) is a traditional practice for mind and body improvement. It promotes a peaceful and healthy way of living through its teaching of truthfulness, compassion, tolerance, and five sets of gentle exercises.

There has been an ongoing persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China for almost three years. It is well known by authorities worldwide that appeals by Falun Gong practitioners have always been peaceful, law abiding and respectful of the requests of the local authorities.

What is truly disturbing is that a country such as Iceland would prevent Canadians from entering their country and peacefully appealing for the end of a persecution.

Another, perhaps more disturbing aspect, is the list itself that was used to identify the Falun Gong practitioners. Falun Gong has no membership. There is nothing to join. All activities are voluntary and free and there is absolutely no list of any kind.

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(Name withheld)

Waterloo