Statement on the US President’s Signing of Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act (S.3744)

June 27, 2020

The Uyghur American Association thanks President Donald Trump for signing the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act of 2020 (S.3744) into law today. We are grateful to the President and members of Congress—and their tireless staff—who have been indefatigable defenders of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic values in East Turkistan.

The United States is, and has always been, a champion for human rights throughout the world. In times of peace and in times of peril, the United States has protected society’s most vulnerable members—the poor, the sick, the hungry, and the persecuted. Countless men and women in uniform have courageously fought to safeguard life, liberty, democracy, and dignity. Too many of them have sacrificed their lives in defense of these sacred principles, to make this world a better place for all. The American people, for whom our veneration knows no bounds, have been faithful friends and committed partners.

By enacting the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act into law, the President fulfilled his promise to the world: The United States will not stand idle in the face of injustice. Now, we call on other nations to follow in the footsteps of the United States and hold the Chinese government accountable for their crimes against humanity.

To the Chinese Communist Party, the President—backed by the world’s strongest democracy—reaffirms the critical message: those who perpetrate injustices will be held accountable. To the Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples suffering under Chinese Communist rule, the President’s actions are a lifeline.

Today, we are especially proud to stand side by side our fellow Americans. This historic moment marks a new chapter in our long fight for freedom and justice. We remain committed to build our coalitions in the United States and beyond to advance our collective cause.

God Bless the United States of America. God Bless the Uyghur nation.