On Human Rights Day in 2012, hundreds of Chinese citizens across multiple cities gathered publicly to protest widespread human rights abuses related to forced home demolitions, illegal detentions, and the abusive Re-education through Labor system. Police and thugs broke up some of the protests and thousands of petitioners in Beijing were detained while seeking justice and protections for basic rights around international offices.

1. Photo: CRLW
On December 10, 2012, petitioners gathered at a local letters and visits office
in Wuxi City, Zhejiang Province to highlight rampant abuses that result from
frequent home demolitions.

2. Photo: HRCC
On Human Rights Day, more than 100 residents of Fuzhou City gathered in the
city square to speak out against a host of human rights violations.

3. Photo: HRCC
On December 10, 2012, police and thugs broke up a rally by Fuzhou City residents
who spoke out against rights abuses, including “black jail” detentions and the use
of the Re-education through Labor system.

4. Photo: HRCC
In Beijing, petitioners from all over China sought justice on Human Rights Day, with
many demonstrating around the UN Development Programme Office and other
international agencies. Thousands of petitioners were swept up by police.

5. Photo: CRLW
On Human Rights Day in Shenzhen, activists boldly placed a banner over a city
street appealing for protections for fundamental human rights.