Call for a Thorough Investigation into Shen Yun Performing Arts' Abuse and Manipulation

Dear Officials at the U.S. Department of Justice and the New York State Child Protective Services (CPS),

As a concerned American citizen, I am deeply shocked and outraged by the recent New York Times investigation published on August 16, 2024, titled "Abuse and Manipulation." The report reveals severe abuse and manipulation of young performers by Shen Yun Performing Arts at its headquarters, Dragon Springs, in New York State. These actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also undermine core American values.The investigation highlights five major concerns about Shen Yun Performing Arts:

1. Restriction of Freedom: Many performers are forced to join Shen Yun at a young age and are not allowed to leave the institution without special permission. They are only permitted to see their families during a two-week summer break each year.

2. Neglect of Health: Performers are required to continue dancing even when injured and often cannot receive necessary medical care.

3. Low Wages and Unpaid Work: Performers work long hours under high pressure with minimal pay or, in some cases, no compensation at all.

4. Atmosphere of Fear: The environment at Dragon Springs is described as fear-inducing, with strict control over the personal lives of performers, impacting their mental health.

5. Threats and Intimidation: Those attempting to leave are threatened with demands to repay substantial scholarship and living expenses, potentially amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

These abuses and manipulations are occurring at the headquarters of Falun Gong in New York State, and Shen Yun Performing Arts must be held accountable. The New York Times' investigation has provided thorough evidence, with meticulous fact-checking and legal review. We urge the U.S. Department of Justice and New York State CPS to conduct a comprehensive investigation into these serious allegations and take appropriate action to ensure that Shen Yun Performing Arts is held legally responsible for their misconduct.

Please take action to protect the rights and safety of young performers and uphold our core values by addressing these grave abuses.

Thank you for your attention and support.

Jodie Walpole    Contact the author of the petition