#United States #Philadelphia #Shen Yun #child trafficking #labor rights

Shen Yun Lawsuit: Allegations of Child Trafficking and Forced Labor

In a troubling development, a class-action lawsuit has been filed against Shen Yun, a prominent Chinese classical dance and music company, by the law firms Berger Montague and Farra & Wang. The lawsuit has ignited serious discussions surrounding allegations of forced labor, particularly concerning minors, which have drawn significant media attention.

Background of the Allegations

The lawsuit, initiated on November 26, 2024, identifies Chun-Ko Chang, a former dancer with Shen Yun, as the lead plaintiff. Chang began dancing with the company at the tender age of 13 and has since come forward to share her harrowing experiences. She has accused the organization of exploiting young dancers through a system of control and intimidation, asserting that Shen Yun employs tactics reminiscent of those used by the Chinese Communist Party to assert dominance over its performers.

According to attorney Times Wang, the legal strategy aims to expose systematic abuses within Shen Yun, stating that the defendants have constructed a system fostering coercion and fear among the dancers. Wang highlighted that Shen Yun exploits vulnerable individuals—particularly children—who can be more easily manipulated and pressured into compliance.

Control and Coercion Tactics

The allegations detailed in the lawsuit paint a bleak picture of the working conditions faced by Shen Yun dancers. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs argue that the defendants exert control over nearly every aspect of the dancers' lives. They claim that Shen Yun's management tightly regulates their schedules, eating habits, and even romantic and familial relationships.

Mariyam Hussain, a senior counsel at Berger Montague, emphasized that the strict control inflicted on these dancers robs them of their autonomy and freedom, creating a coercive environment that discourages dissent or escape. Furthermore, Michaela Wallin, another attorney on the case, corroborated claims that most dancers are minors, routinely recruited as young as twelve, making them particularly susceptible to exploitation.

Legal Violations Cited

The lawsuit raises grave concerns about violations of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) and New York Labor Law (NYLL), asserting that the Shen Yun defendants engaged in practices that undermine basic labor protections. The claims put forth not only address the treatment of dancers at the Dragon Springs compound but also extend to individuals performing in various capacities for the company, including musicians and set designers.

The Public's Response

As news of the lawsuit spreads, public awareness regarding labor rights violations in the performing arts has increased. Advocates are urging anyone with similar experiences to come forward in solidarity with Chang's courageous decision to seek justice. Chang has expressed her hopes that her actions will protect future young dancers from enduring similar abuses, despite the risks involved in taking a stand against such a powerful organization.

Conclusion

The allegations against Shen Yun are profoundly alarming and have sparked a vital conversation about labor standards in the arts, particularly as they pertain to vulnerable populations like children. As this case unfolds, updates will be closely monitored, bringing attention not just to Shen Yun but to the larger issue of human dignity and labor rights within the entertainment industry. The outcome of this legal battle remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly reflects the need for greater scrutiny regarding how performing arts organizations operate and treat their talent, especially the youngest among them.