Joe Pitts: “Thank you, Congressman Smith, for your leadership on this issue. Madam Speaker, here is a picture of Liu Xiaobo, a…”

“Thank you, Congressman Smith, for your leadership on this issue. Madam Speaker, here is a picture of Liu Xiaobo, a modern-day human rights hero who is suffering and languishing in prison as we speak. This resolution celebrates the fact that the Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and notes with sadness the fact that he remains in prison because of his commitment to freedom and human rights. He has been a true hero, defending those who cannot defend themselves and lending a voice to those who have no voice. He has worked tirelessly to protect human rights but has been repeatedly detained, sent to reeducation through labor camps, placed under house arrest, harassed, and monitored by the Chinese Government. For years, he has withstood the brutal intimidation tactics of the Chinese Government and has continued to fight for freedom. In 2008 he helped draft Charter 08, calling for greater freedom of expression, respect for human rights, and free elections. Because of his role in drafting and circulating the charter, he was arrested and sentenced to 11 years in prison, a term he continues to serve. Liu's long, arduous, and peaceful struggle for human rights has made him most deserving of this award, and we act today to recognize and honor his life's work. But we also take this opportunity to call on the Chinese Government to respect the basic human rights of its people and to release Liu from prison.”