What’s happening? Your neighbors are gathering at City Hall tomorrow (July 17) at noon, and they need you there.
Picture this: For 26 years, people who practice peaceful meditation exercises called Falun Gong have faced imprisonment, torture, and worse in China. That’s longer than some of you have been alive. But here in Houston, we’re not just watching from the sidelines.
Why Hermann Square at Noon?
This isn’t just another rally – it’s Houston joining a massive coordinated effort with Washington D.C. to say “enough is enough.” When you walk past City Hall tomorrow, you’ll see your fellow Houstonians in bright yellow shirts doing something that could literally save lives.
Here’s what you need to know:
- When: Thursday, July 17, starting at noon (get there by 11:30)
- Where: Hermann Square, right in front of Houston City Hall
- What to expect: Peaceful speeches, group meditation exercises, and real people sharing real stories
This Actually Affects You
“But I’m not Chinese, why should I care?” Here’s the thing – this persecution isn’t staying in China. The Chinese Communist Party is reaching into American communities, targeting Shen Yun performances (yes, those beautiful dance shows), intimidating Chinese-Americans, and trying to silence people right here in Texas.
Your tax dollars, your local businesses, your universities – they’re all connected to this story. When we ignore human rights violations, they don’t just disappear. They spread.
What You Can Do Right Now
Show up. That’s it. Park in the Rusk Street garage, wear whatever you want (though yellow shows solidarity), and just be there.
You don’t need to be an expert on Chinese politics. You don’t need to give speeches. You just need to be a Houston neighbor who believes that peaceful people shouldn’t be tortured for their beliefs.
The Real Story
For 26 years, people have been thrown in prison for practicing slow-moving exercises and living by “truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.” Imagine if someone tried to arrest you for doing yoga or going to church. That’s exactly what’s happening.
But here’s the inspiring part: These practitioners haven’t given up. They’ve spent two and a half decades peacefully telling their story, saving lives, and fighting for basic human dignity. Tomorrow, Houston gets to be part of that story.
Your City Council Cares
Local council members are already backing this event – they understand that Houston’s values include standing up for the defenseless. When you show up, you’re not just supporting Falun Gong practitioners; you’re supporting the Houston way of doing things.
Make History With Your Lunch Break
This Thursday, instead of scrolling through your phone during lunch, you could be part of something that actually matters. Hermann Square will be filled with people who decided that 26 years of persecution is 26 years too many.
The organizers believe we’re witnessing the final chapter of this persecution. Whether that’s true or not, Houston’s response will be remembered. Make sure you’re on the right side of history.
Bottom line: Your neighbors need you at City Hall tomorrow at noon. Bring your friends, bring your kids, bring your curiosity. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply show up.
For parking, use the Rusk Street garage entrance. For directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4dRo8QrJzXCrWF2aA
