Dissident at the Doorstep Episode 2: The Barefoot Lawyer
Jan 13, 2024
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Guangcheng, a blind lawyer who fought against the One Child Policy in China, talks about his activism, challenges, and clashes with authorities. The podcast highlights Guangcheng's resilience and determination in seeking justice. It also discusses the extreme restrictions and brutal enforcement of the policy, as well as Guangcheng's plans to file a class-action suit and gather evidence in villages. The speaker also recounts a harrowing incident of someone being forcefully taken away by the police.
Guangcheng risked his life to expose the brutality of forced abortions and sterilizations under the One Child Policy in China, assembling a class-action lawsuit to fight for justice.
Guangcheng's collaboration with international journalists and human rights advocates highlighted the importance of crossing borders and sharing stories to effect change and inspired a growing movement for justice in China.
Deep dives
Guangchang's fight against forced abortions and sterilizations
Guangchang risked his life to expose the brutality of forced abortions and sterilizations in his community. The One-Child Policy in China resulted in severe restrictions on reproduction, including harsh punishments for violators. Guangchang gathered evidence and assembled a class-action lawsuit against local authorities in Liyi County for raiding homes, forcing pregnant women to have abortions, and coercing sterilizations, even resorting to kidnapping relatives. His case gained international attention through reports by journalist Phil Pan and lawyer Tang Byou. Despite the risks, Guangchang remained firm in his determination to fight for justice.
Guangchang's collaboration with international allies
Guangchang's efforts to expose the abuses of the One-Child Policy extended beyond China. He reached out to international allies, such as journalist Phil Pan and lawyer Tang Byou, to document and report on the atrocities happening in Liyi County. The evidence they gathered showcased the brutal tactics used by local authorities to enforce population control. Guangchang believed that drawing international attention to these issues would help bring about change and hold the Chinese government accountable.
Guangchang's close calls and resilience
Taking on powerful authorities and challenging the status quo came with significant risks for Guangchang. He faced house arrest, threats, and physical intimidation from local officials. Despite these dangers, Guangchang remained resolute in his mission. He continued to gather evidence, fight for justice, and collaborate with other legal activists. His unwavering determination showcased his unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of the Chinese people.
The power of Guangchang's advocacy
Guangchang's advocacy for justice and his fight against forced abortions and sterilizations resonated with people both inside and outside of China. His efforts brought attention to the broader issues of human rights abuses and the need for legal reforms in the country. Guangchang's collaboration with international journalists and human rights advocates highlighted the importance of crossing borders and sharing stories to effect change. His resilience and courage in the face of adversity set an example for others and inspired a growing movement for justice in China.
Guangcheng fights his biggest case in China – exposing the brutality of the One Child Policy. This, and a series of public and legal victories in the early 2000s, makes him into an icon in the US and an enemy of the state in China, an unlikely place for a blind man who grew up in a poor village. So how did it all begin? We talk to Guangcheng himself to find out.
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