Objection from the Chinese Embassy and accusations of security risks by NSW MP Henry Tsang will not deter Greens MLC Ian Cohen from attending NTDTV's Chinese New Year Spectacular at the Capitol Theatre tonight.
"I was surprised by the reactions of both the Embassy official and Henry Tsang MLC against this celebration, as seen on last night’s ‘Lateline’ program on the ABC. This has made me even more determined to attend the function." Ian Cohen said.
“This is a peaceful cultural spectacular. What type of Government officials would condemn such an event? A controversial scene is said to depict the persecution of Falung Gong practitioners by Chinese police. Such persecution is well documented by human rights groups. Art in the West should be free to depict all aspects of society without fear. Human rights and cultural diversity are basic tenets of Greens philosophy.
“I certainly will not be toeing any Communist Party line and I look forward to being in the audience. Let the quality of the performance be the proof and the audience be the judge. I am a keen student of history and will judge the event for myself.
“A similar row occurred when Hannan Ashwari, the controversial Palestinian activist, was presented with the Sydney Peace Prize two years ago. There was a strong objection from the Jewish community. I attended the awards and met Hannan Ashwari. It was a constructive night.
“Similarly, tonight's show will be an event not to be missed. The overreaction of the Chinese Government officials begs the question - what have they got to hide?” Mr Cohen concluded.
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