Imprisoned human rights lawyer Xie Yang's heartfelt letter to his parents

Dear Mom and Dad,

I don't know whether you'll be able to read this letter once it arrives!

The hardest times for me have already passed, and everything is fine now. My main daily task is to exercise. The medical check-up in the prison shows that my physical condition is superb, with physiological indicators such as blood pressure and heart rate even better than those of the average young people!

Back then, parents sent their children to school hoping that one day they would be able to serve their motherland. Now, I am serving my country and all Chinese people in my own way. I wonder if you can understand this approach? In the times of war, parents sent their children to the battlefield to create a peaceful society. In times of peace, parents send their children to prison to create a society ruled by law. Both are equally important. Without the rule of law, peace will be lost. For the sake of the nation, I cannot fulfill my filial duties, and I hope you understand. The old saying goes, "Loyalty and filial piety are difficult to fulfill at the same time," and now I truly understand this.

Ya Juan and Yu Chen are in the United States, and their mother will take good care of them. You should be assured. Besides, I have a group of friends in the United States. If they encounter any difficulties, my friends will provide help. They will be fine.

I am mentally prepared that my sentence this time might be around five years. I hope you are also psychologically prepared. I know that where there's a dream, there's pain. I have no regrets, and I feel relieved knowing that my brother, sister-in-law, and sisters are taking care of things at home. To meet you as soon as possible, I will give up the appeal. Entering prison sooner will allow me to see you sooner, and appealing has no practical significance anyway.

My case will go to trial soon, and to block my messages, they have chosen not to hold a public hearing.

This means that family members will not be able to attend the trial. However, please believe that I will prevail in terms of legal principles. Justice is not present, but we strive to create it! Believe in the future, you will be proud of your son!

With best regards,

Your son,

May 18, 2023