Wei has stood up to an oppressive Chinese government. calling for freedom and democracy through speeches. writings. and as a prominent participant in the Democracy Wall movement. I also noted that his dedication to the principles we hold dear. and on which our nation was founded. brought him 15 years of torture and imprisonment at the hands of the Chinese communist regime. Seriously ill. Wei was released only after great international public outcry. Now essentially exiled. he lives in the United States on a temporary visa and cannot return to China without facing further imprisonment. Now more than ever. Mr.