Harry Wu Visits Italy to Raise Awareness on the Laogai

Sprawling mountains and scenic views cover much of Northern Italy. Yet the scenery played little part in Harry Wu’s most recent venture to Italy, except for his many train rides.  Harry spent the second half of last week visiting several Italian cities and giving presentations on the significance of the Laogai.

Harry arrived at the Milan airport on November 9^th.  That evening he spoke at an event sponsored by the Alleanza Cattolica (The Catholic Alliance).  There he talked about the events leading up to his arrest and his experience in the Laogai. The event also featured a slideshow depicting the modern-day Laogai, and Harry explained the current Laogai structure. Harry met with several of Milan province’s leaders, including the current president, Guido Podestà and vice president/ Cultural Councillor Mr. Maerno.

On Thursday, November 10^th, Harry travelled from Milan to Trento.  The CARITRO Foundation hosted a press conference for Harry, where he discussed China’s One Child Policy. Harry also met with the president of Trento province Mr. Dellai and CARITRO Foundation president Mr. Zandonati.

The following day, on November 11^th, Harry spoke at Trento’s Teatro Sociale to an estimated 600 students about life in forced labor camps. Later in the day, he gave a presentation on the Laogai before the national Presidents of Agricultural and Artisans Trade Companies, Mr. Marini & Mr. Guerrini at the Teatro Sociale.

Many Italians were especially interested in the fact that Harry was arrested partially because he is Catholic.

During his last full day in Italy, Harry travelled to Bologna for a public conference hosted by the Impegno Civico (Civic Engagement) Association. The event’s host, Alessandra Nucci, stressed how important it is for Western cultures to prioritize ending modern slavery.  At the end of the event, Ms. Nucci presented Harry with the 2011 Award For Civic Engagement. Later, Harry travelled to the commune of Volano, where he met with mayor Matte and spoke at a town hall council meeting held in honor of his visit to Italy.

Harry’s trip to Italy was particularly beneficial for increased coverage of the Laogai. The trip provided many press opportunities, including Libertates’ interview of Harry and his experiences in the Laogai.

Harry and the Laogai Research Foundation express much gratitude to the CARITRO Foundation for giving him the opportunity to raise public awareness on Chinese human rights in Italy.