My name is Hans Hogrefe, and I work in the office of Congressman Tom Lantos, who is the founding co-chairman of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus. I am proud to have the responsibility of helping the Congressman arrange the many activities of the Caucus, including events in support of Falun Gong.

Mr. Lantos could not attend the event today, and he sends his regrets. He also sends you his greetings and expresses his strong support for your cause. Mr. Lantos and many of his colleagues have long denounced the injustices of the People's Republic of China, including its treatment of Falun gong practitioners.

The Congressional Human Rights Caucus was the first forum in the U.S. congress in which Falun Gong practitioners came and discussed their peaceful meditation system and shared information regarding arrested family members. They gave reports of mistreatment, rape, and torture in prison.

In addition, the People's Republic of China has embarked on an intense media campaign, both in China and abroad, to defame Falun Gong.

It is very important that the U.S. Congress strongly condemn such outrageous behavior and stand with local officials and with the practitioners of the Falun Gong. Mr. Lantos and the Congressional Human Rights Caucus remain committed to highlighting the issue of the persecution of Falun Gong in China and abroad and remain committed to fighting for your freedom of religion and expression.