Slovakia: Theater-Goers Support Petition against Persecution of Falun Gong

On Saturday, April 18th in Bratislava, practitioners held an activity calling public attention to human rights violations in China, especially to the persecution of Falun Gong. The activity took place near Istropolis, where Beijing opera was being performed, so many of the theater-goers had the opportunity to learn about Falun Gong and sign the petition against its persecution in China.

"What exactly is Falun Gong?“ asked an elderly lady, who was waiting for her acquaintance. After it was explained that it is a system of meditation exercises, similar to qigong ot tai chi, which are passed down in China for ages, she wondered, "Why is it persecuted, then?“ We explained, that the communist party couldn’t stand the popularity of Falun Gong and the then Chinese president Jiang Zemin started persecuting it from jealousy and from the fear of losing his power. She nodded.

“I do yoga, I have to read about what exactly Falun Gong is” said a passing lady. “Petition for human rights? We have to sign it!” said another, and she headed towards the petition.

Quite a few young people took a flyer and said they have to read it carefully. Some of them said they plan to visit our webpage.

Young skateboarders, who use the area in front of Istropolis for practise, also signed the petition. Many of them were deeply moved by the stories of persecution and scenes from the persecution in prisons experienced by Falun Gong practitioners in China.