Uyghur communities around the world united in grief and defiance on the 14th anniversary of the tragic Urumqi Massacre, which claimed the lives of thousands of Uyghurs and resulted in the disappearance of many more. In various cities, powerful protests took place, shedding light on China’s oppressive policies and demanding justice for the victims.
In the heart of Washington D.C., the Uyghur American Association and Uyghur Human Rights Project organized a poignant protest on the National Mall. They displayed pictures of the victims from China’s concentration camps, aiming to raise awareness about the atrocities being committed against Uyghurs. Simultaneously, a group led by Campaign for Uyghurs rallied in front of the Chinese Embassy, highlighting the urgent need for action to stop the ongoing human rights abuses.
In an act of defiance, Ilshat Hasan Kokbore, a member of the World Uyghur Congress, burned the Chinese flag to symbolize the pain and anguish inflicted upon the Uyghur community. His actions expressed the anger and frustration felt by many who demand an end to the atrocities committed by the Chinese government.
Meanwhile, in Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan, the Uyghur community gathered to recite the Quran on behalf of those who lost their lives in the Urumqi Massacre on July 5th (7.5). This solemn act served as a tribute to the victims and a reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by Uyghurs in their fight for justice and freedom.
In Istanbul, Turkey, the East Turkistan International Federation organized a gathering in front of the Chinese Consulate. Participants held images of Uyghurs who perished in the Urumqi Massacre 14 years ago, while Hidayet Oghuz passionately spoke out against the Chinese government, accusing them of committing genocide against the Uyghur people.
Notably, the Swiss Uyghur Association led a protest in Bern, Switzerland, denouncing the injustice and genocide perpetrated against the Uyghurs. The Uyghur community in Switzerland voiced their solidarity with their brothers and sisters in East Turkistan, demanding accountability and an end to the human rights abuses.
These global demonstrations underscored the resilience and determination of Uyghur communities worldwide, as they continue to fight for justice and raise awareness about the ongoing atrocities faced by their brethren in East Turkistan. The 14th anniversary of the Urumqi Massacre served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international action to address the human rights crisis unfolding in China.
