By Xiao Ran, Vision Times
On Feb. 13, Canadian Member of Parliament Kevin Vuong spoke with Vision Times, where he denounced the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for its transnational repression against Shen Yun Performing Arts. He also took aim at Western media outlets, particularly “The New York Times” (NYT), accusing them of serving as propaganda tools for the CCP.
Vuong also urged the Canadian government to take a firmer stance in defending religious freedom and ensuring Shen Yun can continue spreading traditional Chinese culture worldwide.
Shen Yun’s role in preserving Chinese heritage
Vuong emphasized that Shen Yun is not just a world-class artistic performance but also a vital representation of Chinese cultural heritage. He recalled attending Shen Yun’s 2024 performance at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto, where he was profoundly moved by its artistic brilliance, deep cultural roots, and spiritual significance.
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He was particularly inspired by Shen Yun’s commitment to universal values, describing the performance as a beacon of hope for both China and the world. “Shen Yun brings people endless spiritual inspiration and positive energy,” he said.
As a Chinese-Canadian, Vuong expressed deep admiration for Shen Yun’s mission to revive and share traditional Chinese culture: “As a Chinese-Canadian, I particularly cherish the opportunity to experience Chinese culture up close.”
Transnational repression
In recent years, the CCP has intensified its overseas campaigns to smear and discredit Shen Yun, employing both legal tactics and information warfare. Notably, the NYT has published multiple articles attacking the performing arts company. Many observers argue these reports align with the CCP’s broader strategy of influencing Western media and stifling religious freedom.
Vuong was direct in his criticism. “It’s no secret that Canada has long been a target of foreign interference. We have witnessed the CCP’s transnational repression worldwide, and unfortunately, the United States has not been spared either.”
He explained that some Western media outlets have unknowingly become conduits for this repression, shaping their coverage to align with the CCP’s interests. “The recent attacks not only reveal this reality but also expose the vulnerability of some Western media, which, without realizing it, have been used as instruments of repression. This is regrettable and damages the credibility they are supposed to uphold.”
Condemning the CCP
The CCP’s efforts to silence Shen Yun extend beyond media narratives. In recent years, the regime has pressured foreign governments and theaters to cancel performances, using diplomatic threats and intimidation. In 2024, for example, the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver received a bomb threat, an alarming incident that mirrors similar threats worldwide.
Vuong strongly condemned the CCP’s ongoing suppression of religious freedom, human rights, and traditional culture. He reaffirmed his support for Shen Yun and Falun Gong practitioners, describing Shen Yun as a cultural treasure filled with light and hope. “No one is truly free until we are all free,” he added.
He also warned that such threats are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to CCP interference in Canada. “Many Canadians are afraid to freely express their faith or cultural identity due to fears of harassment or retaliation,” he stressed, urging the government to take a tougher stand against foreign interference.
In 2024, Canada passed Bill C-70, the Foreign Influence Transparency Act, which establishes a foreign agent registry to track foreign operatives in the country. However, Vuong criticized the federal government’s sluggish implementation, pointing out that it has yet to appoint a commissioner to oversee the program.
With Canada’s next federal election set for fall 2025, Vuong called on the next government to adopt a stronger stance to protect citizens from foreign influence and to safeguard religious and cultural freedoms.
Honoring Shen Yun artists
Shen Yun is set to return to major Canadian cities from March to April 2025 with an all-new production, and Vuong expressed his excitement. “I look forward to watching Shen Yun again this year and experiencing the magic of this cultural feast.”
He also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Shen Yun artists touring the world: “To the Shen Yun dancers, orchestra members, and behind-the-scenes staff — I want you to know that Canada welcomes you! Our stages will always be yours!”
Encouraging them to continue their performances, he added, “Please continue performing and showcasing the beauty of Chinese culture through dance, so that Chinese-Canadians and all audiences can witness the brilliance of Chinese heritage on stage. Shen Yun’s performances bring the world not just artistic excellence, but an indomitable spiritual force.”
He concluded with a firm message. “Shen Yun presents the pure beauty of Chinese culture to the world, and we must protect this freedom.”
