Free Zhiwen Wang!

Happy Father's Day Dad!

2011-06-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

We love you!!

Happy Birthday Zhiwen Wang! Freemydad.org in Spanish Released!

2010-09-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Zhiwen,

Birthday celebrations often include gifts of food, cake, and other material items. Yet in their most fundamental principle, they are celebrations of the person himself. We celebrate the years a person has been on this planet and the contributions they have made to us as individuals and as a society. Today we celebrate you.

Though the current period of time is difficult and the untold suffering you've endured is hard to imagine, we believe that when the persecution against Falun Gong is ended and all falsifications and slander have been nullified, you will be seen in an entirely different light. The inevitable fall of the information blockade and tyranny will usher in a new era of truth, whereby your example of determination and faith will shine.

To assist with spreading your story far and wide, we are proud to announce the unveiling of freemydad.org/Spanish! We have already gotten lots of support from those in Spanish-speaking countries and we hope to reach even more with this new vehicle. Thank you all! Liberen a Zhiwen Wang!

Birthday parties are often concluded with thanks being given by the person whom we celebrate. But in absence of a physical connection or gifts, we reflect on the gift your example has given us and we humbly thank you for your endurance, compassion, and goodness in standing up for the truth.

May this year speed you towards freedom. We eagerly await your arrival!

We also want to thank all of our readers, petition signers, and people who have helped us pass on the story of Zhiwen. You have our deepest gratitude.

All the very best,
The Rescue Team

Eleven Years of Imprisonment, Persecution, and Peaceful Activism

2010-07-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Today marks the 11th year of persecution by the Chinese communist regime and the 11th year of Zhiwen Wang's imprisonment.

The Rescue Team would like to humbly thank everyone who has signed the petition, spread the word, and supported Zhiwen Wang and the practitioners of Falun Gong over the years. Your actions are truly encouraging and we are hopeful they will continue to snowball until everyone in the world knows of this atrocity.

The Falun Dafa Information Center published a press release today we would like to share with you here:

Press Statement from the Falun Dafa Information Center

20 Jul 2010

NEW YORK – Eleven years ago this week, the Chinese Communist Party launched a campaign to eradicate Falun Gong—a peaceful and popular spiritual practice embraced by tens of millions of Chinese citizens. But the practitioners of Falun Gong are not the only victims, and the lives destroyed and lost are not the only costs.

Following the Communist Party’s decision to suppress Falun Gong on July 20th, 1999, Falun Gong books were burned in mass public displays, the state-run media turned out a deluge of propaganda to vilify the practice. Falun Gong practitioners were stripped of their rights to free expression, religious practice, and legal protections. Schools expelled students for practicing Falun Gong, and workplaces turned in employees to be imprisoned and tortured.

Falun Gong practitioners today represent the largest group of prisoners of conscience in the world, with hundreds of thousands extra-judicially imprisoned at any given time. Tens of thousands have been tortured in custody as prison guards attempt to force them to recant their beliefs. They are shocked with electric batons, burned, hung from ceilings, and beaten. They are denied adequate nutrition, and force-fed with hot peppers and human excrement. Women are raped, and even children and the elderly are not sparred imprisonment and abuse. Mounting evidence suggests many—thousands or even tens of thousands—have been killed for the extraction and sale of their vital organs. In 2009, over 109 reports were verified of practitioners killed as a result of abuse in custody.

Even outside of China’s borders, Falun Gong adherents are not free from the threat of surveillance, intimidation, defamation and even violence at the hands of Communist Party agents.

The Killing of Conscience

The Communist Party’s campaign of suppression is not merely about the physical security of Falun Gong adherents. Rather, it represents a threat to something far more fundamental and lasting: the rights of individuals to seek to better themselves, and the collective values and integrity of an entire nation.

When the suppression in 1999 started, Falun Gong practitioners had never expressed any political ambitions. They were not subversive. They did not advocate for political transformation, and instead sought only the transformation of their own hearts. But even though they were not political dissidents, they were spiritual dissidents. In a nation where violence had been glorified, they chose to believe in compassion and patience. In a system pervaded by deception and corruption, they practiced truth. And in a China whose new mantra was that ‘to be rich is glorious,’ they sought meaning not in the pursuit of money, but through meditation, self-reflection, and the practice of altruism.

As Falun Gong grew in China—with an estimated over 70 million people practicing by 1999—its popularity attracted the ire of top Communist Party leaders, who viewed its moral philosophy as ideological competition. This dynamic was described in an editorial from official Communist Party mouthpiece Xinhua News Agency, which ran on July 27th, 1999, declaring: “the ‘truth, kindness and tolerance’ principle preached by [Falun Gong] has nothing in common with the socialist ethical and cultural progress we are striving to achieve.”

The persecution aims not to kill Falun Gong practitioners; deaths in custody are generally a by-product. The true objective is forced religious conversion. Individuals who aspire to lead moral lives, who aspire to altruism and kindness, are imprisoned, vilified, and tortured for the purpose of turning them into people without spiritual belief. After they are “reformed” through coercion and abuse, they are then forced to partake in the “transformation” of other Falun Gong practitioners. In a sense, the goal of persecution is to turn law-abiding people who aspire to kindness into people who inform on and torture their friends.

A Nation Victimized

Falun Gong practitioners are not the only victims of persecution in China. The suppression of Falun Gong has been directed by the Communist Party and its security forces, but it has been executed with the help and acquiescence of hundreds of millions of Chinese citizens.

Police officers who entered their profession in order to protect the people have been forced to imprison elderly women for meditating in parks. Labor camp guards are threatened with the loss of jobs if they don’t partake in the torture and abuse of Falun Gong detainees, and reporters and editors are forced to print hate speech against the practice. School teachers are required to ensure that none of their students believe in Falun Gong, and employers are made to turn in productive employees to be sent to labor camps. Ordinary citizens are offered monetary rewards for informing on their neighbors who practice Falun Gong, and judges are not allowed to rule in favor of justice when Falun Gong adherents are brought before them.

And if nothing else, Chinese citizens have been told by their country’s leaders to hate Falun Gong, to feel contempt for its teachings of truth, compassion, and tolerance, and to stay silent when faced with injustice.

These are the other victims of the suppression of Falun Gong. True, they are not behind bars, nor denied educations and jobs because of their beliefs. But they have been denied something even more important than physical freedoms—a clean conscience. They have been robbed of their integrity, blinded from truth. And it is for these people for whom Falun Gong adherents in China continue to risk their lives.

Since the suppression of Falun Gong began eleven years ago, the response by Falun Gong practitioners has been a path of non-violent efforts to educate their compatriots of the truth. They have countered a barrage of official propaganda with underground printing houses, where they create informational materials about the real nature of their spiritual beliefs. They have launched a satellite television station to broadcast uncensored news to China, and developed circumvention software to break through Internet censorship, enabling millions of Chinese citizens to freely access information. They have nurtured performing and visual arts groups to bring a message of peace, compassion, truth and hope to the Chinese people.

Today, there is reason for optimism. As time has worn on, a growing number of Chinese people are refusing to be complicit in the persecution against Falun Gong. By the hundreds of thousands, they write letters to Falun Gong websites expressing their support and solidarity with persecuted adherents. Dozens of human rights lawyers are now actively seeking to defend Falun Gong adherents, even though they know doing so will result in their disbarment and possibly torture.

More and more Chinese people are refusing to be cowed by threats of violence, because they know that a life lived without freedom of conscience is not a life worth living. They realize that the right to seek truth and to pursue self-actualization is what makes us human. It is what makes a person strong, it is what gives meaning and value to life. It is what enables a nation or a culture, to flourish, and it is these things that, one day, can truly enable the nation of China to reach its full potential, a China that the world would like to see.

Original article: http://faluninfo.net/article/1067/?cid=84

Thanks for reading,
The Rescue Team

Dad, Thinking of You.

2009-09-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

My Dear Dad:

I read something about your righteous action over the "self-immolation" in year of 2001. The article says that the prison guard transferred you to "change" you right after the staged-event. They were trying to change you but you still didn't yield. Such a brave father with a steadfast faith. I am applauding and inspired.

Thanks, daddy.

http://zhenxiang.wordpress.com/2009/08/16/法轮功学员证实王治文没有因自焚伪案而转变/

Good night,

Your daughter,

Dandan

Brutal Torture of a 60-year-old Father in China

2009-09-14T07:02:00.000-07:00

Recently we became aware of a new round of intense torture inflicted upon Zhiwen Wang. According to inside sources reported via minghui.ca, guards were arranged in shifts to watch Zhiwen, forcing prolonged deprivation of sleep, slapping his face when his eyes closed, day-long sitting on a stool, and even using toothpicks under all ten of his fingernails. It is so inhuman to think of it is unbearable. Urgent action is needed.

Today, September 14th, Zhiwen turned sixty. He has been imprisoned for an entire decade and has not been able to see his only daughter even longer. Zhiwen is now a senior citizen, but this torment and pain inflicted upon him has only grown more intense.

We implore everyone to reach out to their local officials and request action to be taken to bring Zhiwen to safety. Please sign and pass around our online petition: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/free-my-dad-zhiwen-wan g

Your support is truly needed and cherished.

Thank you,
The Rescue Team

Daughter's Father - for your 60th Birthday!

2009-09-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

My Legendary Dad:

Since you were 50 years old till today you have turned 60

Ten years have passed not being free

You have suffered so much

Passing through storms and cold

Gray hair grew, wrinkles deepened, teeth knocked out

Yet your heart of gold never changes

Your actions taught me the most important thing in the whole world:

Be truthful to my beliefs and hold firm

Reaching out to thousands

My promise to you to rescue you, spreading your story far and wide

Like father like daughter

Your little princess grows as well

Stronger than ever

You inspire me and I stand by you!

Prouder than ever,

Love,

dandan

A Decade of Courage

2009-07-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago this day, Zhiwen Wang was forcefully taken from his home--the persecution against Falun Gong had just begun and Zhiwen was on the top of the list.

Many people may recall seeing Zhiwen on CNN all those years ago. He and three other Falun Gong practitioners stood in quiet resolve at a show trial. The outcome of these illegal proceedings had been decided before they had even entered the room. In retrospect, it appears that the outcome had been decided before the persecution even started -- the then-leader of the communist party wanted to eradicate Falun Gong and expected by imprisoning "key" people it would send a loud message to the Chinese people about the practice. The broadcast was also intended to mislead the world about Falun Gong and have the mainstream fall in line behind the party.

Yet as time has shown, the party was wrong. An old saying of Chinese wisdom goes: "Only when the year turns cold do we see the pines and the cypresses shed their leaves last." Falun Gong practitioners have endured 10 long years of agonizing persecution and the practice continues to flourish. Millions of families like Zhiwen and Danielle have been ripped apart, yet the love and faith they share still triumphs over the wicked intentions of suppression.

What has happened as the pines and cypresses endure, the Chinese communist party has been destroying itself. The financial and human resources it has wasted in persecuting millions of innocent people are undermining it's own stability. As the party wages war on the very Chinese people within its own borders, it further estranges more of the general population.

In fact, there are many people within China that know very clearly that Falun Gong practitioners are good people and do indeed abide by Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. They know that the 75-year-old grandma down the street who was sentenced to prison is not a criminal. They know that the 49-year-old engineer that would help the elderly carry gas tanks and groceries certainly is not mastermind seeking to "undermine social stability" or "leak state secrets". More and more Chinese people are coming to see this entire persecution as a farce and when the curtain is finally drawn back and the damage toll is tallied, there will be no punishment severe enough for the communist party's crimes against humanity.

The communist party has sought to destroy practitioners and eliminate Falun Gong, but what it has done is given a starker contrast between what is right and what is wrong, what is good and what is evil, and who is innocent and who is guilty.

Zhiwen Wang, your innocence is an absolute truth and one day soon it shall be verified. A decade of your life has been robbed for you and those precious moments can never be returned. Neither can those same ten years for the millions of practitioners and their families be repaid.

It is our hope that Zhiwen Wang will immediately be released from prison unconditionally and that those who are persecuting their fellow Chinese people will wake up and change their ways for their own sake, for the sake of their country, and for the sake of the future.

Zhiwen Wang, please keep your righteous faith close to your heart as we continue on the path towards your freedom.

Sincerely,
The Rescue Team

For Father’s Day – Dad, I Will Pick a Flower and Save it For You!

2009-06-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

(photo credit: Henry Chan, NY)

亲爱的爸爸：

My Dear Dad:

一转眼的功夫，又是美国的父亲节了。大街小巷，电视网上全是温情脉脉的感恩和销售父亲节礼物的广告。让我的心里一阵阵的感触，不经意的一晃，时间就把我从一个十八岁的小姑娘给催到了三十而立之年。同时还有的，就是那十年青春，您那十年的冤屈，在中共残酷镇压下的委屈和心酸。

Time has flown by. It’s another Father’s Day in America. There are kind regards and gift advertisements for fathers everywhere from street corners to the TV and Internet. However, my heart is not calm. In the blink of an eye, time rushes me from 18 year-old girl to an almost thirty-year-old woman. At the same time, I am grieving over the lost ten years we should have shared while you have been wrongfully imprisoned – this long, arduous sentence under the Chinese Communist Party’s brutal persecution.

最近我经常听到一些人讲，做一件事容易，一直坚持做这件事才是最难的。我对此也深有同感。不是因为您被抓了，十年后这件事情就随着时间的流逝而不再重要，没有新闻的新鲜感了。这十年来，您的坚持，对法轮功信仰的从一而终 -- 是我最最钦佩的。对于女儿来说，最难最难的是坚持我们的立场，无论在任何情况下都相信真理一定会有大白的一天。同时，看着中国的同胞被中共社会灌输着幼稚可笑的党文化，不知道法轮功的真相，也是我一定要继续努力的力量源泉之一。

Recently, many people have mentioned this to me that it’s easy to do one thing, but to do this one thing for a very long time is the hardest. I deeply agree with this point. You were arrested 10 years ago; the importance of this event won’t fade away as time passes by. Your story would still be fresh as the newest news. For these past ten years, your persistence in your belief in Falun Gong is the most inspiring to me. For your daughter, the hardest among the hardships is to maintain a righteous standpoint, believing that under any kind of circumstance the truth would prevail in one day. At the same time, watching our fellow Chinese being force-fed with the ridiculously childish Chinese Communist Party Culture without knowing the truth of this evil persecution against Falun Gong is another major reason for me to continue on my journey.

不同以往的是，今年发生了我生命中很重要的事情，订婚和结婚了。人家都说，“男大当婚，女大当嫁”。因为一些具体的情况，订婚和结婚都是在如此的匆匆中一闪而过，就像梦中的烟花一样，几乎都没有时间伸手抓住什么，身心就又投入到忙碌的责任中了。

What differs this Father’s Day from others during the past is that something major happened in my life. I was engaged and then got married! There is an old Chinese saying: “Upon growing up, every male should take a wife and every female should take a husband”. Because of some special circumstances, the engagement and getting married seemed to happen in such a hurry. Everything happened like the fireworks in a dream. Then just as quickly we needed to refocus both mind and body back into the busy responsibilities of daily life.

家里的亲戚传来了消息，说当您听到我要结婚的消息时，非常的高兴，心中放心了许多。孰不知，我听到您很高兴的时候，眼泪真的就不争气的掉了下来。这份不能克制的心酸，好令人难受。还没有来得及告诉您我交往了男友，就已经听到了我的喜讯了。不知道您的心里除了高兴，还有没有遗憾呢？

Our family recently told me the news that when you heard that I am getting married, you were so happy for me. Your heart felt much relief. When I heard that you were truly happy for me, the tears started rolling down my cheeks uncontrollably. I felt heartbroken and sad. I didn’t even get a chance to tell that I had a boyfriend in person, let alone getting married and now you have already heard my good news. Would there be any regrets hidden under your joy for me?

十年时间了，好漫长的岁月，最近有国内家人问起我的心里历程，我老老实实的告诉他们，怎么能不累呢? 但是为了您的自由，为了千千万万在大陆受迫害的同修，受欺骗的中国老百姓，再怎么累也是值得的。

Ten years, such long ten years. Recently someone asked me about my the course of growing up. I told them sincerely, “How can I not be tired? But to fight for my father’s freedom, for millions of Falun Gong practitioners persecuted in China, for all the fellow Chinese who have been deceived, it may be tiring, but it is more than worthwhile.

心中最大的遗憾，莫过于您不能亲自看到女儿的成长，不能牵着我的手，将我交付给我的先生，到时婚礼我会一个人走过礼堂的过道，因为在我心中，这一切是作为父亲的荣誉，没有第二人选。而且第一排的第一个座位专门一定留给您，我会放上一只花来代表您的缺席。在我生命的转折点，折一支鲜花留给您！

One of the biggest regrets for me is that you could not see your only daughter growing up in person, and couldn’t hold my hand and give me to my husband. When the formal wedding ceremony comes, I will walk down the aisle by myself because such honor could only be reserved for you as my dearest father, as there is no second candidate. I will reserve the first seat in the first row for you. On it, there will be a flower to represent your absence. At this turning point in my life, I will pick a fresh, beautiful flower and save it for you!

请照顾好自己，

爱你的女儿丹丹

Please take care of yourself,

Love you with all my heart,

Your Daughter: Dandan

June 19^th, 2009

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T13:58:00.001-07:00

A new video in honor of Zhiwen Wang on Father's Day

Please pass this on to your friends and family so more people can know Zhiwen's situation. Together we can end the persecution and bring him home!!

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,
The Rescue Team

Your Daughter's Life

2009-06-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

My Dearest Dad:

Within a couple of months, my life completely changed. Everything is so unpredictable. I got engaged and then --married!

I wish you were here to share my life and happiness with me. I only wished that you could have been there to put my hands into his. At this milestone in my life, I miss you as ever or more. I don't want you to miss the important moments of your only daughter's life. :(

During last call talking to the family, they said that you have known I got married. You were really happy for me. I instantly couldn't hold my tears anymore. I felt heart-wrenchingly sore. Your unselfish good wishes for me mean so so so much. And I can't even share this precious moment with you. But I will, one day, recall all the happy memories with you together.

My husband is a extremely nice guy who has always been supportive of you. Together, we try to tell people your story and Falun Gong. He is very eager to meet with you in the future. He thinks you are the best dad and a man of honor. As for me, I feel lucky to have you both in my life.

How is everything with you? With an age of almost approaching 60 years old. I want you to be able to breath in the free air. To be able to believe in "Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance". To not be forced to do labor everyday. Most of all, I want your name to be cleared and all the Dafa practitioners innocence proved!

Love you with all my heart,

Your daughter: Dandan

Wishing You Happiness During the Holidays!

2009-01-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

Dad, I miss you so much! I am still doing my best to call for help for you and the many other practitioners in China. Someone mentioned to me recently: "Xiaodan, if your dad knew what you are doing at the moment, he would be really proud."

I spoke often about your story to others to awaken their kindness and conscience. But who would know how many hardships that I have to overcome throughout the entire course of my journey? I hope you are free, that is one of my three wishes on my last birthday.

With love,

Dandan

Happy 59th Birthday, Zhiwen Wang!

2008-09-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

Make a Wish

Dear Zhiwen,

Today we honor you on your 59th birthday - the 9th birthday you have spent in prison. But today we do not look on the present in despair, we look at the past with joy and the future with hope.

Your reputation in China prior to July 20th, 1999 when the persecution against Falun Gong began was that of a great man constantly giving all of himself to help others. You devoted your time and energy unconditionally helping others. People liked your kind and calm demeanor. Your neighbors appreciated your hospitality and help around the home. You are a loving father and true gentlemen.

This day is your day. We only wish we could celebrate with you in person. You deserve so much more than cake and goodwill, you deserve your freedom more than anyone. We want you back in society and back in our lives. We need good people like you to light the candles of goodness.

Zhiwen, although you are not here, you are here in spirit. You have encouraged and inspired hundreds of good people to light their own candles and stand up for the belief in truth and all that is good. Next year may we cut cake together.

Wishing you all the best,
The Rescue Team

ps.

In Need of More Helping Hands

2008-08-21T17:26:00.001-07:00

Dear Everyone:

During the past year, so much has been achieved. The Freemydad.org website has played a major role in raising awareness about my dad -- Zhiwen Wang -- and calling for the people around the world to rescue him and the other Falun Dafa practitioners being persecuted in China. The rescue team members also lended their hands and played an important role.

But I would like to ask more people to help in the rescue efforts. To be able to reach out to more people and different governments for my dad's safe return, we need more help.

Here, I sincerely hope that more people could lend a hand to help. Through only my team and myself, the resources and time are both very limited. It is simple enough to help. Just by passing on the website to your friends and family through email, or posting it on blogs and forums, we can increase the awareness and have more of an impact.

If you have other ideas, please post them in the comments here. Thank you so much everyone for your continued support.

Thanks ~

Your truly,

Danielle Wang

4,730,400 Minutes of Persecution and Torture

2008-07-20T05:46:00.001-07:00

Dear Zhiwen,

July 20th, 1999 around 6a.m. marks exactly 9 years since you were illegally detained. 9 years you have been forbidden to contribute your great skills to society and physically be the loving father that you are. People in your neighborhood all knew of your strong moral character and kindness to all. You were generous with money and generous with your belongings. You would sacrifice your lunch break to ride a bicycle back home to make lunch for your daughter every day. We ask the Chinese Communist Party and your captors: Is this the kind of person you want in prison? Is this the kind of person you want to remove from society? In 9 years of persecution, has society become better because you imprison good people and torment their families? No. No. No.

Falun Gong practitioners have endured 9 years of persecution. 4,730,400 minutes of physical and mental torment and anguish.

At rally in front of the White House, Danielle gave a speech for you and said,

"Perhaps it is hard to comprehend the pain one can endure over such a long, agonizing time, where minutes feel like hours, trapped in a prison cell. Once a number reaches a certain point it becomes inconceivable. When it comes to the persecution of Falun Gong, it became inconceivable before it reached minute number 1 and another moment that it continues is a moment too long. My dad’s experience is only a miniature of the persecution of hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners."

Your daughter is strong, Zhiwen. Her strength comes from goodness, not from force. As other Falun Gong practitioners have done for 9 years, she peacefully appeals for your release. Not by venting anger, nor calling names, but by speaking the truth of the situation with compassion. It is difficult to understand how someone with such trying conditions could possibly maintain a positive demeanor, but she has done it.

You have much to be proud of. You have led by example and raised your daughter well. Although you are detained, you continue to encourage people to step forward to help rescue you and end the persecution.

July 20th will forever be a day of infamy for the Chinese Communist Party -- the day it betrayed the Chinese people and attempted to snuff out this hope for a moral return. However, with the passing of 9 years, not only has Falun Gong continued to flourish, but also what is good and what is evil grows ever more apparent. More and more people are realizing that Falun Gong is group of good people trying to live peaceful and healthy lives, and it is even brining back the traditional Chinese culture that was lost since the invasion of Communism in China.

We do not know how much you are able to hear about the outside world in prison, but perhaps you can feel the tide changing. We will continue to call for your release and righteous people will continue to step forward. It is only a matter of time before this persecution ends, but 9 years is already 9 years much too long.

We wish you all the very best and a speedy return to freedom where you belong.

Sincerely,

The Rescue Team

To the Unknown Lady and Many Others -- The Awakening.

2008-06-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

Dad:

When I was receiving death threats, curses, and shouting in my face in Flushing, NY I smiled and kept my head high up like you.

Just like the way you smiled years ago. I didn't really care what they said of me because I knew deeply in my heart that none of those things they said were true.

When an unknown lady from the crowd stood between me and the crowd, she took the initiative to defend me. My hearted was moved. This moment of realization, realization of the truth is what I want for my country and my fellow Chinese. Nothing can compare to this moment!

True awakening comes with righteous action. Dad, both you and me have been expecting this moment for too long!

"Falun Dafa is good"!

Your Daughter,

Dandan

For the background story, please read:

The Seven Path Poem, Life and Death, Parenthood

2008-06-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

Dad:

I have something randomly in my mind that I want to share with you. How is your life in the summer of Beijing? Here in US, suddenly, the weather turned, yesterday it felt like a hot steam room. Then, I realized that I was too spoiled by the ever blasting AC in the US.

Here is a poem that you taught me when I was little by Zao Zhi:

Seven Path Poem:

Boiling beans burn the beanstalk,
Beans inside the pan cry:
We're both grown from one root,
Why so fast to boil each other?

Basically, this is the question that I meant to ask my fellow Chinese people. We are grown from the same root, why so fast that we boil each other?

Life seems truly unpredictable--I was at one good friend's wedding one weekend and then the other friend's wake on the other. When I truly looked back, I just suddenly was aware of how fragile and precious one's life is.

When my friend -- the mom passed away and I visited the little infant baby who were left behind. Without any warning, she seized my little pinkie with her hand. So tiny that she can't even get a firm grasp on my hand. But I felt it with my heart. I was touched with joy and filled with celebrating emotions which were beyond my understanding. It almost brought me to tears. I ponder on how you looked at me when I was first born. But I heard from mom that I had 18 wrinkles on my face when I was first born. : )

Also, the Father's day is next weekend. Ay... another hard Holiday to get by. I am thinking what I should do to have more people to support your rescue?

With all my love and a renewed understanding of parenthood, your daughter,
Dandan

Please Think for Yourself, My Fellow Chinese

2008-05-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

A Chinese woman wearing communist red flag during a Falun Gong Parade in Flushing, New York.

Dear Dad:

I went to New York City this weekend. May 24th, 2008 - Sunday while I was eating at a Manhattan Chinese restaurant, I encountered something like this:

I heard people say: "Why are there so many Falun Gong people in this restaurant? Falun Gong...."

Then I stopped and asked them in Chinese: "What is wrong with Falun Gong? I think it is very good!"

Then I talked to a few of the Chinese waiters and waitresses. One of the waiters told me that he did not agree with our practitioner's action against Sichuan Province Earthquake donation abroad. Shocking! Shocking! Shocking! It is not true!

I knew as a fact that the Falun Gong practitioners were severely harassed by a few hundred Chinese in Flushing, New York. All of sudden, a couple hundred Chinese surrounded the practitioners and then shouted and yelled at the practitioners. They accused our practitioners of not caring for the Sichuan earthquake victims. Even worse, they physically abused several practitioners by pushing, beating and grabbing their babies. Apparently, this is a staged event. Then, the CCTV broadcasted that practitioners were "interfering with the disaster relief fund raising for Sichuan Province".

I was saddened since this is another event that the Chinese Communist Regime has used to frame Falun Gong practitioners. But this time, it was on U.S. soil in front of everyone else. Lying to all my fellow Chinese around the world.

My heart aches and I feel very concerned. Practitioners in the Flushing area have been calling for help in ending the persecution in China for quite a few years now. We had never created any trouble. How come on the photos and videos that the CCP's media have been creating has no evidence of donation but only people in group were yelling at the practitioners?

Moreover, we care for the victims in this disaster as much as all the Chinese people around the world.

My fellow Chinese, please don't let the lies cover your heart, think for yourselves! The CCP is using your love for your country and your patriotism to do bad deeds. If you truly love your people, please take a look, thousands of practitioners are wrongfully accused every day in China.

Dad, I went to the serving staff with your postcards on my hand, one by one, I told them about your story and your sentencing terms and how much that you have suffered because you believe in "truth, compassion, tolerance". A few of them listened your story and nodded as they listened. I was very, very concerned about our country's future.

With all my heart, I want to say to my fellow Chinese people, please don't believe in lies that the communist regime setup to cheat people. "Falun Dafa is good!"

Here is a link that our rescue member encountered in Flushing Chinatown this past Sunday. You can see that our some Chinese people believed CCP's lies and were yelling and shouting at our rescue team members. All we were saying was: "Falun Dafa is good!"

http://www.motionbox.com/videos/7c9addb31012e5f4

Concerned daughter,

Have a good night!

It is not that Hard, I Just Need to Try Harder!

2008-05-15T18:29:00.001-07:00

My Dear Dad:

One thing I wanted to tell you:

The Florida rescue team has been supporting the rescue for you for almost an entire year now. Every weekend they go out and collect hard copy signatures for your release. Wherever they went, they carried the message asking your release. In fact, they just met with a Florida Congresswoman's staff member and turned in thousands of the signatures. I am attaching some of their efforts:

I feel extremely tired recently on both professional career and rescue efforts. Today, I almost cried. Then when I went to different places to further my quest, I came to realization that "It's really not that hard. I just need to try harder!"

With much love ~ Miss you very much,

Your Daughter: Dandan

P.S: There was a huge earthquake in Sichuan Province. I am sure that you already knew about the news. When I saw the pictures of the devastating natural event, my heart ached. I don't want our Chinese people suffer that much. I truly care about you and the thousands of them. What should I do to let people know that I couldn't care less about the Chinese Communist Regime, but I care so much for the people and the country itself?

The Luxury of Talking about Your Daughter

2008-04-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

My Dear dad:

I forgot to mention about one month ago I met a senior retired scholar who is a father of three beautiful engineer girls.

While he was talking about his kids, that special feeling a parent toward his children was so strong. He couldn't stop thinking about his daughters' goodness. The way he described them was beautiful. It made me wonder, are you talking to others about me in prison at all? Because I know, I am talking about your story to all the people I am in touch with. I am truly proud of you -- my father, Zhiwen Wang. Moreover, I am carrying on what you are believing in and defending.

I remember that I sent you photos through mail or family. From what I have heard, you aren't even allowed my pictures to be kept in prison at all. Each time a family member brings my photos to prison, you would stare at my pictures the whole time, then at the end of the visiting hour, you would insist on letting the family member taking the photo away... I understand that you are trying to protect your daughter the way you always have done.

Whenever I thought about this, my heart aches and feels bitter. How can I not feel sad? I remember your last letter where you said that as a parent, the true joy is to watch your child mature and assume the responsibilities of life. Instead, you choose to not have my picture around so no one could harm me a bit.

I don't know what to say.... this thought makes me sad.

Just thinking of you, dad.

"Going into a battle without ever looking back." I learned this proverb from a non-Chinese speaker who explained my Journey recently.

Love,

Dandan

A Changing Heart

2008-04-13T18:55:00.001-07:00

My Dear Dad:

One of the rescue team members drew an illustration of the rescue effort. I look so sad...

I remember that this was exactly how I felt when you were arrested. I am attaching a personal letter that I wrote to you with a drawing on the back. At that time mom kept telling me that the situation for you did not look optimistic at all. My memory drifts back to high school. I blocked myself out and did not talk to people most of the time.

This letter I have never shown anyone before. It was written to you a few weeks after I could not find you.

Now I have a completely different understanding over the rescue. My heart is no longer filled with sorrow and toil. For what it worth, I see the bright future that you and I are fighting for. I am grateful that I can explore my journey with many friends and kind hearted people around the world. My heart is calmer than before, for I know what you said in one letter: "I know what I am doing is right!" Yes, I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING IS RIGHT.

Today, I am becoming who I am. A changing heart comes with greater responsibilities and calmer smile.

Sigh... I still miss you so much and I wanted to share everything with you about my life. How can we ever make up the time that we have lost as a family?

Good night,

Dandan

The Second Meeting

2008-03-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

My Dear Dad:

The gentleman in the picture above is the Honorable David Kilgour who is the former Secretary of the State for Canadian government for Asian-Pacific.

I met with him recently in the U.S.A. and he appeared in a video introduction for the signature drive for your release. Actually, it has been posted on the new Free Zhiwen website:

http://freemydad.org/

Dr. Kilgour is truly hoping that I can reunite with you soon. Your story touched his heart. Indeed, 8 years too long for you to have lost your freedom.

Dad, you know, this is actually my second meeting with Dr. Kilgour.

First Meeting:

Location: Sydney, Australia

Time: September 2007

Event: APEC Rally - broadcasting to the entire world

It was a rainy day. Since there are so many VIPs were scheduled at the Rally to give speeches, there would be no chance to speak out about your story at the event. But as soon as Dr. Kilgour learned my story and my reason for traveling so far to call for world attention to secure your freedom, he said to me: "Danielle, come up with me on the stage, I have 3 minutes scheduled for my speech. I will let you use one minute to speak out for your father." So, when time came, we went on the stage together... Not only did he introduce me to the entire crowd, but also I believe that I used more than 2 minute of his speech to read my statement. At last, as soon as my speech was over, he clapped and patted on my shoulder: "That is a good speech, Danielle!"

On that day, thousands of participants gathered at the Rally in the rain all heard your story. More importantly, my calling for help for you has been brought to a worldwide scale and gathered more international attention. This is truly a history landmark for the rescue effort. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Kilgour's role. :)

You must be very happy to hear this story. I want you to know that thousands of Falun Dafa practitioners' persist in believing "Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance". Your story has inspired so many people everywhere in the world and they are standing up to call for help for you. Dr. Kilgour is one of the shining examples. In the meantime, please hold strong, your freedom will come together with people's understanding of Falun Dafa and more voices speaking out to end the persecution.

"A single spark can start a prairie fire."

Love and miss you,

Dandan

New Website Launched!!

2008-03-24T05:28:00.001-07:00

Greetings!

A new version of freemydad.org has been launched! We have included an enhanced multimedia and news section, as well as an action-packed how to help page! From there you will be able to copy and paste code into your mySpace page or anywhere you see fit. Join the Internet grassroots outreach and bring Zhiwen home!

We're driving hard to get 10,000 signatures by Father's Day, but we are still far away. Please pass this website on to everyone you know and ask them to sign. As Danielle says, "Every signature counts."

We look forward to hearing from you!

Thank you for all of your support.

Free Zhiwen Rescue Team

Journey into the West for 10 Years

2008-03-14T18:48:00.000-07:00

Ten long years have I traveled the Western Society

Nine long years have I lost contact from dad

Eight years too long for him to be not free

All the time that my heart remains heavy

Struggled, confused -- understood the truth

Stood up, confidence renewed -- united as one body

You are my father

I am your daughter

I will never give up

Together we show the world:

"These are the hands that free Zhiwen!"

(Written on the Anniversary of me being in America for 10 years)

We need your help!! Only 200+ signatures so far!

2008-03-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

Greetings from the Rescue Team!

As of this posting we only have just over 200 signatures, which is a long way from our goal of 10,000 by Father's Day! Within 3 short months we need to reach our goal so we can pass your heartfelt concern onto our public officials and call for Zhiwen Wang's release.

The US government has the power to rescue Zhiwen, but they need to know the American people care about this father being reunited with his daughter. Your signature sends a clear message that we won't stand by while tyranny destroys families.

This is the current listing of the petition:

Petition powered by ThePetitionSite.com

Please pass it around to everyone you know! You can find more background on the story at www.freemydad.org

Every voice counts! Please help!

Humbly yours,
The Rescue Team

Passing it Along

2008-03-06T19:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Dad,

It's late at night, I started to think of you again. I feel sorry that I have been caught up with so many things in life that I haven't supported my rescue team full speed like before.

Did I tell you that I have the most wonderful supportive rescue team? Oh, yes, they are collecting signatures non-stop all over the country. I feel truly grateful.

Therefore, I am attaching the signature board they created, which is now filled with names and heartfelt wishes for you.

Mainly to encourage and remind myself to keep going on with this journey, I thought 'Xiaodan, remember, though weary both at heart and body, you still need to tell dad's story to as many people as you can.' This is the bigger picture to focus on and the reason why I am where I am and doing what I do in life.

Love,

Dandan

Brush Strokes of a New Year's Wish

2008-02-05T12:57:00.000-08:00

My dear Dad:

By a random chance I was informed of this local event of Chinese New Year. So I went with a few friends. To my surprise, the event was full of energy and filled with warm greetings along with a set of complete performances.

Walking down the vendors tables, I found this little desk. There were two or three fellow Chinese teaching people Chinese Brush Caligraphy. I thought of you again. Therefore I went and asked if anyone would write something for the rescue campaign. One guy agreed to write for me.

As he brushed the characters, I could see both the confidence and power of the strokes, reminding me that in each step on the path I must maintain clarity of mind and resolve to rescue you. The characters are simple, but their meaning is profound - Free Zhiwen Wang, and we will bring an end to this persecution forever.

One time, two times, three times... he tried to achieve the perfection. I could see his golden heart really wants to help:

In English it reads: "Free Zhiwen Wang!"
It pronouces as" "Ying Jiu Wang Zhiwen!"

Year of 2008 is the beginning of another Zodiac Cycle -- Rat. This is a year of hope and many many warm greetings to come.

Your daughter,
Dandan

Let's Collect 10,000 Signatures by Father's Day!

2008-01-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

Dear All Concerned:

I would love to ask your support by signing my petition. I am setting up a goal of 10,000 signatures before this coming Father's Day. By then, he would be almost illegally imprisoned for 9 long years. I plan to collect and print the signatures and send to the related agencies.

Can you sign to help out? The petition link is: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/free-my-dad-zhiwen-wang You can also help by sending my website out (www.freemydad.org) and ask your friends and relatives to sign as well. Your efforts count toward my dad's freedom!

Thank you for all your help.

Danielle Wang

Mountain Berries.

2008-01-09T22:32:00.000-08:00

Dad:

I took this photo a few days ago. The winter feels very cold. I have not had the chance to go outside much for a while. There are no leaves on the branches, let alone colors.

Today, I went to a nice and historic town. Suddenly, I found these shiny mountain berries hidden on a tree, which brought me joyful feelings and a big smile. Such a feast for the eye! I wish you were there with me. The town is old-fashioned and very stylish. I remembered that I sent you some spring photos before. This would make a great one for winter.

I recalled Teacher's Poem in Hongyin II (versionB)

Plum Blossoms
(in Yuan verse)

In the chaotic world, like pure lotus flowers—
plum blossoms, a hundred million
Cold winds only accentuate their beauty
The interminable snowfall and rain
are the tears of gods,
Who look longingly for the plum blossoms’ return
Never, ever get preoccupied with worldly things
Steel your righteous thoughts
For all [that you have gone through] since ancient times,
Was for none other than this time around.

Li Hongzhi
January 28, 2003

Indeed, the cold winds only accentuate their beauty.
Dad, be brave and strong -- both are strengths that I learned from you.

Good night.

Your daughter,
Dandan

Speech from Amnesty International Chapter President in D.C. Area.

2008-01-09T14:24:00.000-08:00

Dad:

Last year I met a new friend with a very similar name as mine -- Daniel from the D.C. area. He delivered a speech at the Human Rights Torch Relay Rally to support the efforts to raise awareness regarding the 2008 Olympics in China. I asked him if he would like to publish his speech on the rescue website. This is what he wrote:

"As Catholics our group believes in the sanctity of human life from conception until natural death. Another foundational principle of Catholic Social Teaching is the Dignity of the Human person. Freedom from torture is an undisputed human right. I quote Amnesty International’s theme for its Mid Atlantic conference and say, “I believe in Human Dignity!” The Chinese Communist Party has tortured and killed 100,000 of its own population. These people have committed no crime. They are prisoners of conscience. Nearly two thirds of those tortured practice Falun Gong. They have tortured those who promote the principles of truth, compassion, and tolerance. They promoted love just as our Lord Jesus Christ and they suffer just as he did. My religion also emphasizes the role of the family. We believe that family should be protected and helped when it is in need. In China the Communist Government has broken one million families. The Olympics cannot be held in China when seven people a day die from torture. The Olympics must be held in a country where human rights are held to the highest importance. This is something the government of China must correct before the Olympics should be allowed to come to China. "

Daniel M.

Since 2008 Olympic in Beijing is this year, I would like to support the theme that the "Olympics and the human rights violations cannot co-exist in China" and try harder to rescue you out! This is my New Year Resolution for 2008.

Your Daughter,
Dandan

December 27th -- Christmas Time & On the Road

2007-12-28T09:20:00.000-08:00

Daddy:

Eight years ago as of today, I saw your face the first time on CNN court proceedings. That day, you were sentenced to the second longest term in Falun Gong crackdown history by the Chinese Communist Party -- 16 years. December 27th, 1999, I spent the entire day sitting in front of the TV screen touching your aged face, over and over. So when people were celebrating the holiday spirits, I was sad to begin with...

This year, I spent a real Christmas exchanging gifts and receiving warm greetings. It was wonderful! On this special occasion for family and friends, I remembered the time we had in China. To me, every day was a Christmas day. On this western holiday, I miss you SO much that I wanted to save my share of happiness for you. So when I see you, you would be showered with all the things that I have experienced at that moment.

Lately, My lifestyle has been changed. Being a Civil Engineer, it seems that traveling has been on my weekly schedule. I was in one city one day and the other for the next few days. Again, this reminds me of you -- my beloved daddy who traveled most of the days as a civil engineer. I feel very grateful to experience all of these as your daughter. This has brought me one step closer to you. So when I am tired and feeling uncomfortable, I remind myself to do things according to Falun Gong principles and to be as positive as you.

Here is one photo of me taken on Christmas Day. The sky was blue and clouds are ever beautiful.
This remind me of the one card that I received from Austin Formal City Council Member for my journey:

Believe there are no limits but the sky...

In the end, I would love to quote your letter to me:
How to look at the suffering and the happiness of it? I agree with the mentality of serenity and compassion -- calmly look at the clouds stretching and folding in the sky, look at the flowers blossoming and withering to the ground, look at people coming and leaving from the world. The true nature of happiness are joy, tolerance, indifference to fame or gain, pure mindedness, a calm demeanor,and living peacefully, but confidently and free of any restraints. These are the qualities that I strive to achieve. This is the quality of life and noble state of mind I have yearned to establish with a corresponding open mind and happy attitude.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you!
love,
Dandan

New Petition to Free Zhiwen Wang!

2007-12-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Thank you for your tremendous support. We have a new petition we hope you can sign and pass onto your friends and family. Our goal is 10,000 signatures. Every voice helps!!

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/free-my-dad-zhiwen-wang

Petition powered by ThePetitionSite.com

Thank you,
The Free Zhiwen Wang Rescue Team

Danielle interviewed on "Digging to China"!

2007-11-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

Danielle speaks about her father and the rescue campaign in the second segment of this episode of Digging to China:

Dad's Letter to Me...

2007-11-12T22:00:00.000-08:00

Dad's Two Letters.

Dad:

Mom came back from China with your letter. This is such a surprise to me! I remembered how happy and excited I was when I received your letter last December. I replied to your letter and translated both yours and mine on the same night. I could not help but share all the joyful feelings with my co-workers. They probablly wouldn't understand, what kind of meaning that this letter had for me... I smiled and sighed at the same time. How happy I am!

I like your handwriting. So smooth and flowy without any edges, your handwriting reflects how unattached to worldly things you are.

Maybe because I had so many changes this year my heart feels uneasy. I know what I should do. I know that I will keep going. However, feeling weary and uncertain about the future sometimes can be overwhelming. Then... your letter came.

And then... your letter came. YOUR letter came -- like a small mountain spring passing through my heart. It put my mind at ease, giving me the same kind of familiar energy and encouragment that I have always remembered and held dear.

Ah...do you remember that before you were arrested, I would call you every weekend seeking comfort and support? You were always so patient and righteous. Guiding me through many changes.

I learned not to take things for granted these years. I treasure all the moments that I can spend with mom and friends.

In this letter, you said: "As a parent, I care about your growing up. A few years ago, in a letter that your mom wrote to me -- while you were in college, you liked to feed the squirrels on the school campus. I can imagine you like a little girl without losing your innocence..." Ah... I miss you so, daddy.

In your eyes, I forever remain your little girl.

Good night,
Dandan

I still like squirrels, so little yet so busy

Human Torch Rights Relay Awareness Week In Austin

2007-11-08T18:16:00.001-08:00

In my old school, reminds me of the many times that I was there call for help for you, dad.

Birthday Weekend in D.C. -- Baltimore

2007-11-08T17:37:00.001-08:00

Human Rights Torch Relay in Baltimore

Photos from the Birthday Week in DC

2007-11-08T04:05:00.000-08:00

Danielle and the young DC Rescue Team.

Birthday Weekend in D.C.

2007-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Dad:

I went to Washington, D.C. again this past week. I had the chance to spend my birthday with my rescue team members and did A LOT of calling for help in the nation's capital to rescue you. I hope on this day, you could be happy for what I am doing. On my birthday, I wish that all the children in the world will never suffer what I have gone through as a daughter!

It's been years that I have seen the yellow color of fall leaves. It kinda reminded me of what Beijing was like in Autumn Season. Many seasons have come and gone, but you are still not free. I saw a few dads with their kids playing by the side of the Golden tree... so happy... I told my friend: "I used to be like this with my dad. We spent time like this before..." Then, my eyes became misty without even realizing it. I like to look at your pictures to remind myself what you are like as a dad. A daughter's heart is never at ease.

I had such a wonderful time in D.C.. It helped me to make some good decisions for the future to come.

I miss you, daddy. I hope you are happy for me for having such a blessed week!

Dandan

What I Do DEFINES me!

2007-10-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dad, I wanted to tell you this small story that I encountered in the past week.

Recently I have been feeling a little bit tired from all the rescue campaign activities. The vicious attacks on the Internet from the Chinese communist regime defaming my character and my family members affected my mood a bit. Although I know all of these are expected on my journey to secure your freedom and safety, it's still hard even to think that the CCP has put you and our family members under great pressure.

I remembered that a few days ago, I was talking to one of my co-workers who has always been supportive in the past. I told her about my feelings and my frustrations over years of calling for help.

She suddenly looked into my eye and told me: "Danielle, look, people are doing things which define themselves. I know it's hard for you, but what you have done DEFINES you. And you will always be remembered as THAT girl who wouldn't give up on hopes and trying to save your dad." I was shocked to my core by her kind words and most of all, by how people perceive me in this society.

All the things me and my rescue team members have done have not been in vain! I truly feel lucky that I have the chance to have so many people helping me through and through. Practitioners, non-practitioners, Chinese, non-Chinese, friends and co-workers, random people who heard my dad's story, and so on.

Dad, do you know when I am feeling down and tired, I always have people who cared enough to cheer me up? I always have listeners to share my sadness. I just want you to know that I am not alone and neither are you!

Yeah, what I do DEFINES me. And what you have done DEFINES you. You will always be the great dad who upholds the truth and is true to your belief.

I miss you tonight and hope the Beijing weather is not so cold for now.

Good night, daddy...

Dandan

Is it a Full Moon Already?

2007-09-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

Dad:
The Moon changes its shape frequently and easily.
The people hardly reunited on Earth.
With much regrets at heart,
I can only talk to the Moon.
But... when you are holding the truth, the sky is the limit!

After I came back from APEC in Australia, life has gone back to normal. Busy celebrating your birthday, busy working, busy talking to Congressmen's offices, etc.

Without notice, the moon festival is here. Normally, I am not a big eater of moon-cake itself as it is not my type of dessert. But I do admire the people who have the luck to eat moon-cakes and spend time with their family members -- for that is the core value of the holiday itself.

However, Dad, do you eat moon-cakes and look at the night sky? Do they even let you and other practitioners celebrate?

I would like to look at the sky tonight. Hopefully, by any chance, you can have a glance of the moon so we can share the same moon across the sky.

This reminds me of one of the cards that our rescue team member made. It has a beam of moonlight shining on your photo. So peaceful. The light is soft and gentle. And you were in my picture. Maybe I should send that card to you later.

Your daughter,

Dandan

Happy Birthday, Daddy~

2007-09-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

I dressed up today to celebrate your birthday this year. It makes me remember the feeling of all these years celebrating your birthday without you present. It has been very hard! I got teary so many times during the weekend. It is definitely one of the hardest times during the year to celebrate. This year, I am glad that I had my co-workers and my fellow practitioners with me.
On this special occasion. I made three wishes: two that I spoke out before I blew the candles out:

1. I wish all the people in China could be saved and rid themselves of communist influences.

2. I wish you will be released soon unconditionally.

The third one, I kept it dearly in my heart and wishing that someday, all of the three would become true. And I know, it wouldn't be long.

I love and miss you so much. Happy Birthday, Daddy!

Below is a poem that FL Rescue Team Wrote:

The arriving

I see a moon in a starry night
that shines
on the tip of a Cherry Blossom flower
I know there is hope.
As a footprint is formed
on baby fresh snow
we must go on.
Parting clouds make way for the
the arriving sun
that shines as if the first day of
life.

Love,
Dandan

Happy Birthday Zhiwen Wang!!

2007-09-14T03:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Zhiwen,

On behalf of the Rescue Team, I would like to wish you a very happy birthday. If only I could give you the warmth of your daughter's embrace, or a breath of fresh air as a free man -- only then could this be a happy day for me. I want nothing more than your unconditional release from prison, but sadly I could not give this gift to you yet.

But know this, dear Zhiwen: we are coming for you. More and more people are standing up for you and learning the truth of the persecution against Falun Gong practitioners. Your story touches so many hearts, and so many people want to see you reunited with your daughter. We will continue to strive forward to gain your release and let more people know the truth.

My hope is that we can give you the gift of freedom as a belated birthday present and then you can celebrate your next with your daughter in your arms.

Wishing you all the best,
J with the Rescue Team

PS. Here are some birthday wishes from the Florida Rescue Team:

http://blip.tv/file/369823
http://blip.tv/file/369825

A speechless moment

2007-08-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

My friend Danielle has been wanting to post a new entry to the blog recently, but no words come to mind. For a young woman with such a dramatic past and present, how could she be speechless?

Eight long years. That's how.

It has been eight long years. Think about where you were eight years ago. Now imagine being separated from your dearest relative or best friend from that point until now, with no sign you will see them again soon. Add to that they are being tortured. After eight long years of enduring lonliness, sadness, despair, and all of the ups and downs of calling for help, I could see why one might suffer a momentary lapse in discussion.

Every single moment that goes by is another arduous moment Zhiwen Wang spends in Qianjin prison. It is another moment Danielle knows nothing about her father's situation. It is another moment filled with risk for his safety. Put simply, it is another moment too long.

The support Zhiwen Wang and his daughter have received thus far has been heartfelt and worldwide. To witness people standing up for what is righteous and good in the face of tyranny is amazing and historic. Each voice is a luminous testimony that human beings do not want the darkness that the Chinese communist party is propagating from China's interior to the rest of the world. Each helping hand is the foundation of a new level of awareness in the true situation of China. All these pieces of the puzzle are bridging the gap further and bringing Danielle one step closer to pulling her father from the clutches of the wicked Chinese regime.

Tragic that a young woman and her family have endured so much and faced so much injustice. I know that this is only a momentary quiet in Danielle's ever strengthening call for help, but my wish is that the very next words she could say to break her silence are, "Hello Daddy."

J with the Rescue Team

Remembering the Good Times with My Dad...

2007-08-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

I found this photo a long time ago on the Webshot website and had an instant connection with it. It reminds me of how my dad used to carry me on his shoulders. I just love the feeling this photo gives me of a father and his baby walking down the path TOGETHER!

Xiaodan (Danielle) Wang

Petition entry from July 20th parade participant

2007-07-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

A recent posting from the Free Zhiwen! Petition (http://petition.freezhiwen.org):

I had the honor of joining Danielle in the Falun Gong parade through Washington, DC the day after July 20, 2007 - 8 years after her father was detained.

Along with the hundreds of others working for freedom in China, about 9 of us marched through our nation's capitol holding banners that said:
"Free Zhiwen Wang

A Daughter without her Father
A Faughter without his Freedom

Stop the Persecution of Falun Gong
and Free Zhiwen Wang"

Danielle led the group of us holding these banners. She spoke to the spectators in a calm, heartwringing voice: "Please help rescue my father."

While it was an honor to support Danielle, I hope that next year the banners will read quite differently:

"Thank you for Freeing Zhiwen Wang
A Daughter reunited with her Father
A Father gained his Freedom

Thank you for stopping the persecution of Falun Gong
and Freeing Zhiwen Wang"

Simon Thomas
Director, Public Relations
China Support Network
Posted on July 23, 2007

July 20th Washington DC Trip

2007-07-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

Washington DC -- the federal capital of the Unites States of America. This year has marked the 8th year of my dad's arrest since July 20th, 1999, as well as the 8th year of the brutal persecution against Falun Gong in China. It is a sad and happy occasion. I am sad because he is still in jail along with all the other practitioners. I am happy because I have seen people's hearts change over the years and have experienced so much genuine, heartfelt kindness and support.

This also makes me reflect on the many times that I have come to the nation's capital to appeal. I remember one poem of Master Li from "Hong Yin II":

Pause to Think

A journey of dust, a journey of wind
Myriad evils weeded out, myriad beings brought to life
Laboring the heart, striving to resolve deep rancor
It’s hard to have a light heart and look at scenery

February 22, 2001

I also recall the story of Mulan. It has always been an inspiration for me, and I would like to share it here:

The story is set in China before 200 BC when nomadic warriors are terrorizing the land. The Emperor is calling upon villages to defend the country. A young peasant girl, Mulan, intercepts the notice calling her father to war and decides to go in his place -- dressed as a man. Her courage and selflessness shine on the battlefield and she leads her fellow soldiers to victory. She is offered a government post in return for her noble actions. She declines the offer and returns home to live a peaceful life with her family. After she arrives home, she changes back into her lady's clothes. Her fellow soldiers are stunned! They never noticed she was a woman during all that time in battle.

I hope that I could be as noble and brave as Mulan, but I am truly waiting for the time for me to turn back to a shy peasant girl again. Until then, I will continue to strive forward and bring the truth of my dad's situation to more people.

Dad, I miss you ever more!

Danielle (Dandan) Wang

ps. The rescue team will be posting photos of the Washington, DC trip on our website at http://freezhiwen.org/photos.html

Postcard Campaign to China Qianjin Prison

2007-07-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

A small regional postcard campaign was started to send postcard to my dad's prison address. My relatives confirmed that none of the postcards and Father's Day cards that we sent to him were allowed to reach him. They won't even allow my dad to know that he had mail coming for him!

Since the postcards were sent to his Prison in Tianjin City -- Qianjin Prison -- At least, the prison guards or superintendents got to know that he is not alone. There are millions of practitioners and kindhearted people all over the world trying to rescue him now.

It's only the beginning of the rescue campaign, not the end result. I will keep sending postcards, letters, photos to him without hesitation.

Dad, I love you with all my heart!

Your Daughter -Dandan

Grandmother is sick -- if only I could go back to see her one last time!

2007-07-03T11:06:00.001-07:00

My only grandmother in Beijing has become very sick these past few weeks and almost passed away. Today, I received news from my mom that she is bedridden in a hospital and needs a tube through her nose to force-feed her food. My heart is heavy since I have been blacklisted and cannot return to China. Going back to Beijing is and dangerous and unrealistic for me due to the persecution against Falun Gong.

Being a Falun Gong practitioner has made me realize the numerous positive aspects of a person's life. I have gained so much by practicing Falun Gong and have lost nothing. I keep trying to become a better and kinder person, so why would I not be allowed back into China? I want to ask the US government to grant me a safe trip back to China to see my grandmother for one last time. I do not think this is too much to ask since I am a US citizen and am protected by this great nation whose fundamental values are human rights and and freedom of belief.

Writing before Independence Day in 2007.

Xiaodan (Danielle) Wang

Thanks to Sara

2007-06-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

Sara Hickman, musician and human rights supporter, recently posted an entry on her blog to share Zhiwen's story and compassion. Our thanks to her and Anne for reaching out with her kind letter!

Read the blog here: http://www.zenlala.com/
Entry title: "Torture is Wrong"

Thank you Sara and Anne!

Rescue Team

The Free Zhiwen Wang! Blog

2007-06-29T15:16:00.002-07:00

Greetings fellow citizens of the world. This blog has been established to raise awareness for the plight of Zhiwen Wang in hopes of securing his early release from a Chinese prison. Having been detained on July 20th, 1999, Zhiwen has suffered an illegal prison sentence for 8 long years solely for practicing Falun Gong.

Falun Gong is a meditation practice for improving the mind and body based on Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. Zhiwen coordinated some of the Falun Gong exercise sites in Beijing for seven years, helping others become healthier and better people. He never committed a crime and we are calling for his unconditional and immediate release.

We can no longer wait to free Zhiwen. Another moment is a moment too long.

We will keep you posted here on our activities and progress related to freeing Zhiwen, and we hope you will share this with your friends and family. We have an online petition at our homepage (http://freezhiwen.org) and more information for you to read.

The support we have already received for Zhiwen's case has been heartfelt and moving. We truly thank everyone for their actions through compassion. Your efforts in helping spread the word about Zhiwen bring the day he will be reunited with his daughter, Danielle, ever nearer.

Thank you!

The Free Zhiwen! Rescue Team