US Lawmakers Commemorate East Turkestan National Day on Capitol Hill

By Uyghur Times Staff
Nov. 17, 2024

Prominent U.S. lawmakers, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, gathered on Capitol Hill to commemorate East Turkestan National Day, honoring the anniversaries of two short-lived Uyghur republics established in 1933 and 1944. The event underscored bipartisan support for Uyghurs facing persecution in China.

“This is a treasure to be preserved, continued, and strengthened,” Pelosi said, describing Uyghur culture and governance. She reaffirmed strong bipartisan commitment to the Uyghur cause, stating, “If we don’t speak out for human rights in China, we lose all moral authority to speak out for human rights anywhere else.”

Rep. Tom Suozzi praised the Uyghur diaspora for their activism despite facing “transnational repression.” He vowed continued efforts to address the persecution of Uyghurs in China.

Senator Marco Rubio, speaking through a statement, emphasized the need for stronger actions, urging, “Countries around the world need to do more to stop goods made with forced labor, press for the release of imprisoned Uyghur intellectuals and cultural icons, and end the horrific crimes against Uyghur women.”

The event featured national anthems, a short film on the two East Turkestan republics, and remarks from Uyghur American Association President Elfidar Iltebir, Omer Kanat, the executive director of UHRP, Rushan Abbas of WUC and Campaign for Uyghurs, Rebiya Kadder. Experts highlighted the historical significance of the republics and Uyghurs’ aspirations for self-determination.

“East Turkestan Republic Day holds great significance for us,” Iltebir to Radio Free Asia. “This event is incredibly meaningful because it demonstrates that the U.S. government continues to have our backs.”

The commemoration spotlighted the Uyghur community’s resilience and the urgent need for continued global advocacy.