This week on Tuesday (10th), several representatives from the China Democratic Party Headquarters visited downtown Los Angeles and met with officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responsible for the area surrounding the Consulate General of the Chinese Communist Party in Los Angeles. They discussed issues such as safeguarding freedom of speech in public spaces, the right to peaceful protest, and community safety, and expressed gratitude to the police department for providing security for gatherings of members of the China Democratic Party.
The Chairman of the China Democratic Party Headquarters, Zheng Cunzhu, Secretary-General Li Zhiyang, Secretary Han Lei, and member Wu Feiwen participated in the discussion with several officers from the LAPD responsible for community affairs and public order. This exchange was an informal meeting aimed at fostering understanding and communication.
Last month, the China Democratic Party organized a peaceful and orderly protest outside the Chinese Communist Party Consulate in Los Angeles, but the protest was abruptly met with pepper spray from private security guards hired by the Consulate, resulting in several injuries. This incident raised concerns about the freedom to assemble in public spaces outside the consulate.
During the exchange, LAPD officers emphasized that the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution clearly protects the rights to freedom of speech, assembly, and peaceful protest, regardless of the target of the protest or political stance. The police confirmed that the events from last month had been included in the law enforcement process. Although no serious injuries were reported, the nature of the incident was considered serious, and the police department took it very seriously.
Both sides also discussed guidelines for organizing peaceful demonstrations and marches in the future, including permit application procedures, event safety, traffic management, and preventing escalations. The LAPD encouraged organizers to communicate in advance within the legal framework to ensure public safety and smooth running of the events.
Both parties agreed that communication helps reduce misunderstandings, fosters rational dialogue, and contributes to maintaining freedom of speech and social order in public spaces.
The China Democratic Party stated that they will continue to express their political views in a rational, peaceful, and legal manner.
Addressing recent concerns in some communities regarding immigration enforcement, the China Democratic Party expressed worries on behalf of individuals who have come to the U.S. due to political or religious persecution. In response, officers reiterated that Los Angeles, as a sanctuary city, does not undertake or collaborate with federal immigration enforcement actions.
The China Democratic Party Headquarters extended an invitation to the LAPD to engage in legal education exchanges with party members and community members in the future, introducing topics such as citizen rights under the U.S. legal system, legal means of expression, and personal safety to further enhance understanding.