A Stark Reminder of Uyghur Persecution

On July 28, 2014, the world witnessed a horrific event in Yarkand County, Xinjiang, China. Peaceful Uyghur protesters were brutally suppressed by Chinese security forces, resulting in the deaths of thousands. This event, known as the Yarkand massacre, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing persecution faced by the Uyghur people at the hands of the Chinese government.

The Uyghur community, led by the East Turkistan Government in Exile (ETGE) and the East Turkistan National Movement (ETNM), recently gathered in Washington, DC to commemorate the 10th anniversary of this tragedy. The event served as a call to action, urging the US government to take concrete steps to address China's ongoing human rights violations against Uyghurs.

The Yarkand massacre exposed the multifaceted oppression enforced by the Chinese government. Uyghurs are routinely subjected to indiscriminate force, branded as "gangs" and "separatists," and denied basic human rights. The Chinese government actively suppresses information about the massacre, covering up the death toll and silencing those who attempt to expose the truth.

Uyghur leaders and activists at the commemoration event emphasized the need for a more robust US stance towards China, similar to its approach towards Tibet. They advocated for the passage of the Senate's Uyghur Policy Act and the appointment of a Special Coordinator for East Turkistani issues within the State Department. They underscored the critical need for international intervention to halt the persecution and ensure justice for the Uyghur people.

The East Turkistan National Movement (ETNM), a non-profit organization dedicated to human rights and political advocacy, has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the plight of Uyghurs. Established in Washington, DC in 2017, ETNM plays a crucial role in advocating for the Uyghur people and their right to self-determination.

The Yarkand massacre serves as a chilling reminder of the ongoing human rights crisis in Xinjiang. The international community must stand in solidarity with the Uyghur people and demand an end to China's systematic oppression. Only through concerted efforts can we ensure justice for the victims of the Yarkand massacre and pave the way for a future where Uyghurs can live with dignity and freedom.