US-China prisoner swap reunites Uyghur families as work continues to secure others' freedom

Three Uyghurs, including 73-year-old Ayshem Mamut, were freed in a U.S.-China prisoner swap
Mamut is the mother of Nury Turkel, a prominent Uyghur rights advocate
She hadn't seen her sons in 20 years due to Chinese travel restrictions
TURKEL'S PERSPECTIVE:
Believes the travel ban was due to his advocacy work
Served as U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom chair
Described the reunion as transformative and emotional
BROADER CONTEXT:
Highlights China's persecution of Uyghur
Other Uyghur advocates called for continued efforts to free family members
Turkel urged the Uyghur community to maintain hope and continue advocacy
SIGNIFICANCE:
Reunion seen as testament to U.S. government's commitment to human rights
Demonstrates persistent diplomatic efforts across multiple administrations
Brings attention to ongoing challenges faced by Uyghur people