Dear Ms. [name withheld]:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the persecution of members of Falun Gong. I am grateful to hear from a fellow Nevadan, and it is always reassuring to see citizens taking an active role in aiding their fellow men.

Individuals seeking freedom from religious persecution established this nation and the United States has an obligation to promote and expand this basic freedom around the world. Freedom to worship is a fundamental right, which should not be undermined or restricted because of political fear or cultural uncertainty.

I have contacted Secretary of State Colin Powell regarding the appointment of an Ambassador at large for Religious Freedom. This position's duties concentrate entirely on identifying and ending religious persecution. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to support programs, which promote religious freedom in all nations and seek to end religious persecution in China.

Thank you again for your comments. I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns regarding this important issue.

Sincerely,

Signature

John Ensign

United States Senator

Posting date: 8/2/2001
Original article date: 7/3/2001
Category: Worldwide Support

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