Dissidents Take to the Streets During UNGA
In a powerful display of defiance, Chinese dissidents and pro-democracy activists gathered in New York City during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to protest against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The demonstrations coincided with Chinese Premier Li Qiang's visit to the city, where he delivered a speech on September 26. Exiled activists used art, testimony, and public gatherings to voice their opposition to the CCP's policies and alleged human rights abuses.
The protests unfolded across Manhattan’s East Side, with significant activity outside the U.N. headquarters and the Chinese Consulate. On September 23, ahead of Li Qiang’s address, groups of activists assembled to demand accountability for human rights violations and to criticize the CCP’s global influence campaigns. Their message was clear: the international community must take a stand against the CCP’s actions both within China and abroad.
Art and Testimony as Tools of Protest
One of the standout elements of the protests was the use of creative expression to highlight the dissidents’ cause. Activists employed art installations and personal testimonies to draw attention to the plight of those oppressed under CCP rule. These efforts were not just symbolic; they aimed to educate passersby and UNGA attendees about the realities faced by many in China, from censorship to forced labor allegations.
According to reports, many dissidents accused the CCP of extending its coercive power overseas, affecting even those who have fled to countries like the United States. Their stories painted a picture of a regime that seeks to silence dissent beyond its borders, a theme that resonated through the visual and spoken elements of the protests.
While the majority of the demonstrators were critical of the CCP, a smaller group of pro-CCP supporters also appeared near 2nd Avenue and 47th Street on September 23, waving flags in support of the regime. This created a stark contrast on the streets of New York, reflecting the polarized views surrounding China’s role on the global stage.
Broader Context of Li Qiang’s Visit
Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s attendance at the UNGA was marked by calls for solidarity, peace, and shared economic prosperity, as reported by various outlets. In his address, Li positioned China as a defender of international order and urged world leaders to reject ‘Cold War’ thinking. However, for the dissidents outside, his words stood in sharp contrast to their lived experiences and the policies they attribute to the CCP.
The protests also overlapped with other activist movements in New York during the UNGA session, including Tibetan activists who gathered outside the U.N. headquarters on September 27, chanting slogans like ‘Free Tibet’ and ‘China out of Tibet now.’ These parallel demonstrations underscored a broader discontent with China’s policies among various groups, amplifying the dissidents’ message during this high-profile international event.