Chinese dissident recounts human-rights fight, escape from house arrest

Listening to foreign radio broadcasts about democracy gave him the inspiration to persevere over death threats, torture and imprisonment and later to escape house arrest in China, Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng told a National Press Club Book Rap March 19.

Reading excerpts from his new book “The Barefoot Lawyer,” Chen recounted his remarkable life as a human-rights activist and its tribulations.

Blind since infancy, Chen was a self-taught lawyer who opted to fight human-rights abuse in Shandong Province – especially abuses involving the one-child policy the Chinese government imposed on families. Some Chinese, Chen said, “were locked up and subjected to torture.” Forced abortions and sterilizations also were common, he said.

Excerpts Chen read from his book related mainly to his house arrest after serving a jail term. He climbed the wall surrounding his house in 2012 and made his way to the American Embassy in Beijing.

In describing his poignant journey to his NPC audience, Chen at one point became quite emotional.

Through negotiation he and his family were granted visas to the United States, where he is now a research fellow at Catholic University after receiving a law degree from New York University. He’s a member of the Witherspoon Institute and the Lantos Foundation, and lives with his family in Washington, D.C.

Throughout his odyssey, Chen said, “I was inspired by listening to the radio about democracy in other parts of the world.” He also gave credit to the Internet, which he said “makes it harder for the government.”

His focus on human rights brought him and his family death threats and physical punishment, he said. Nevertheless, he prevailed and never deviated from his cause.

Asked if he thought things would change in China, Chen replied: “I believe it’s inevitable -- whether through the rule of law or violently. At present the government will pass a law and then if it doesn't meet their aims they ignore it.” He went on to explain that the Communist Party Central Committee controls everything.

Recognized as an inspiration for freedom of expression, Chen said he felt right at home at the National Press Club. He even commented, “I wouldn't be here today without all of you.”

Of his book, one reviewer said, “The book is an amazing page turning experience. Chen Guangcheng is not only a hero but one of the most inspiring figures of our time.”

The Book and Author Committee sponsored this Book Rap. Eleanor Herman introduced Chen; Alan Bjerga, with the aid of a translator, was the moderator.