Yesterday (June 18, 2020) President Trump signed into law the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act of 2020. This law gives the President authority to sanction Chinese leaders found to be involved in the detention, forced labor and various abuse against Uyghurs and other minorities in China. Over one million Uyghurs are currently believed to be held. 

Late last year I asked us to pray for this. Let’s thank God for hearing and answering that prayer. In these days when fresh cries for justice are occurring all around, this is a small step in a good direction. 

Of course, the challenge is implementation. The President has 180 days from signing to submit a list of those deemed responsible for human rights violations. Their assets can be frozen along with visas and admission to the US being denied. 

There will likely be push back from China. Early published responses from China's Foreign Ministry urge the, “U.S. side to immediately correct its mistakes. . . . Otherwise, China will resolutely take countermeasures, and all the consequences arising therefrom must be fully borne by the United States.”

Two Caveats

One: You may have heard that John Bolton’s just-released book claims President Trump last year agreed with Chinese President Xi on the Uyghur camps. So signing this law is a switch or maybe just politics. 

Two: I don’t know about you, but it’s always easier for me to point out error in others. The U.S. has miles to go in our own human rights efforts before we sleep. Again, this may be politics of distraction. 

Please thank God with me for this new law and ask that it will serve his purposes and contribute to many Uyghurs finding life for their bodies and souls. And, please God, don't let it just be politics.