Sample Letter to Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong

Dear Mr. Ambassador:

I am writing to appeal to the government of the People's Republic of China to release Dr. Yang Jianli on medical parole.

Dr. Yang was arrested three years ago, on April 26, 2002, in Kunming, Yunnan Province, after eight days of visiting and speaking with laid-off workers in China. He has already served more than half of a five-year prison term. It is our understanding from relatives who have met with Dr. Yang in Beijing Prison No. 2 that he suffered a stroke last year, leaving him weak on the left side of his body. His vision is also impaired. It is alarming that a relatively young man who was in good health could have suffered a stroke. I am very concerned about his well-being and believe that releasing him on a medical parole is fully justified at this time.

I appreciate your attention and assistance in resolving this matter promptly. This positive humanitarian gesture would also be viewed by all as a sincere effort to strengthen U.S.-China relations.

Sincerely