US lawmakers mark East Turkistan National Day with Uyghur community

U.S. lawmakers gathered on Capitol Hill to commemorate "East Turkistan National Day" on November 12, marking the anniversary of two historic independent Uyghur states from 1933 and 1944 in East Turkistan.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Congressman Tom Suozzi, along with Uyghur scholars and officials from the Uyghur American Association (UAA). The commemoration featured both U.S. and East Turkistan national anthems, remarks from UAA President Elfidar Iltebir, and a documentary about the historical republics.
Key lawmakers, including Pelosi and Senator Marco Rubio, expressed strong bipartisan support for the Uyghur people and condemned China's treatment of the Uyghur population, which the U.S. has declared a genocide. They called for stronger measures against China's actions, including economic sanctions and efforts to stop forced labor.
The article concluded with historical context about the two East Turkistan Republics: the first in 1933, which lasted six months and was centered in Kashgar, and the second in 1944-1946, which had its own army, currency, and postal system before its dissolution. The Soviet Union initially supported the second republic but withdrew support due to its alliance with China's nationalist government.
The second East Turkistan Republic participated in peace talks with China in 1946, leading to a Coalition Government of Xinjiang Province, which collapsed in 1947 due to pro-Chinese leadership.
George Washington University Professors Sean Roberts and Eric Schluessel provided historical context, emphasizing that Uyghurs seek national self-determination, not just minority rights. Schluessel noted both republics were ultimately victims of China-Soviet power politics.
U.S. lawmakers expressed strong bipartisan support for Uyghurs and condemned China's current actions, which the U.S. has declared genocide. They called for stronger measures against China's human rights violations.
UAA President Iltebir concluded by expressing gratitude for U.S. government support, emphasizing the day's significance for the Uyghur community and the importance of continued American backing.