SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Public Rally WHEN: March 7, 12:00-2:00PM WHERE: State Department Bldg 2201 C Street NW Washington, DC Candlelight Vigil WHEN: March 7, 6:30-8:00PM WHERE: Washington Monument Washington, DC CONTACTS:   • Al Whitted - (610) 656-8281   • Keith Ware - (202) 256-4705

WASHINGTON DC (FDI) -- Seventeen NGOs and organizations will join hundreds more traveling from across the United States for a rally in the nation's capital today to seek assistance from the State Department and Members of Congress to secure the release of Charles Li.

Charles is an American citizen who has spent 44 days in isolated detention inside China, though no formal charges have been brought against him. Many believe he is being held because of his spiritual beliefs.

Starting at 12:00pm, a two-hour rally -- sponsored by "Friends of Charles Li" (website) -- will be held outside the State Department building. Seventeen NGOs and other organizations are scheduled to speak, including Freedom House, the Family Research Council and the Institute on Religion and Democracy.

Statements from Members of Congress will also be delivered at the rally.

Beginning at 6:30pm, a candlelight vigil will be held around the Washington Monument to bring further attention to Charles' case.

For More Information

• American Held 44 Days in Isolated Detention Inside China
• A Shattered Valentine's Day
• Family Appeals for Charles' Release
• News Story about Charles' Detention