Mark Lawrence Participates in Human Rights Torch Relay

Press Release

Mark Lawrence Participates in Human Rights Torch Relay

York County District Attorney Mark Lawrence (D-South Berwick), a Democratic candidate for Congress, participated in the Human Rights Torch Relay in Portland today.

The rally, which is one of many events taking place worldwide, is designed to call attention to China's human rights abuses as it prepares to host the 2008 Olympics.

"I am proud to be a part of this rally," said Lawrence, "by participating, we are telling the world that the Chinese communist party needs to stop the repression of its citizens, and to stop backing genocidal regimes across the world."

The Maine legislature issued a Resolution of Support for the international campaign, calling on the Chinese government to respect the Olympic Charter.

Lawrence noted that the rally, which he also spoke at, called attention to a wide spectrum of abuses in China's record, and also the need to promote human rights across the globe.

"Human rights needs to be a strong focus of the United States in our foreign policy," said Lawrence, "we should work to build civil society in countries under repressive regimes. This is necessary both for global justice and our national security."

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