Shen Yun Dance Group Faces Allegations of Forced Labor and Child Labor
Former Dancer Files Lawsuit
Chun-Ko Chang, a former dancer for the Shen Yun troupe, has filed a lawsuit alleging that the group engages in forced labor and child labor. Chang, who currently resides in Taiwan, claims that Shen Yun operates a sophisticated system designed to recruit vulnerable individuals and control every aspect of their lives.
Allegations of Forced Labor
According to the lawsuit, Shen Yun subjects its dancers to grueling hours of work through various methods of control and coercion. Those who are perceived to have stepped out of line are allegedly subjected to public humiliation and denied basic rights, such as leaving the group’s compound or speaking with their families.
Associated Entities Named as Defendants
In addition to Shen Yun, the lawsuit also names several associated entities as defendants, including the International Bank of Chicago, which is Shen Yun’s financial backer, and executives Hongzhi Li, Rui Li, and Shujia Gong, also known as Tianliang Zhang.
Shen Yun’s History of Controversy
Shen Yun has made headlines in the past for its alleged ties to the Chinese government. In a separate incident, an agent of the Chinese government admitted to trying to bribe an IRS official to target Falun Gong, the organization that produces Shen Yun’s shows and is a prominent critic of the Chinese Communist Party.
Shen Yun’s Response
Shen Yun has not commented on the allegations, despite requests for comment.
Conclusion
The allegations against Shen Yun raise serious concerns about the treatment of its dancers and the group’s business practices. As the lawsuit moves forward, it will be important to investigate these claims and hold accountable those responsible for any wrongdoing.
FAQs
Q: What is Shen Yun?
A: Shen Yun is a dance troupe that advertises itself as a depiction of China before communism.
Q: What are the allegations against Shen Yun?
A: The allegations include forced labor, child labor, and mistreatment of dancers.
Q: Who is Chun-Ko Chang?
A: Chun-Ko Chang is a former dancer for Shen Yun who has filed a lawsuit against the group.
Q: What is the International Bank of Chicago?
A: The International Bank of Chicago is Shen Yun’s financial backer.
Q: What is Falun Gong?
A: Falun Gong is an organization that produces Shen Yun’s shows and is a prominent critic of the Chinese Communist Party.
