Xu Chenggang, experiencing a decade of persecution in China, found solace in Voice of America broadcasts. At 17, he arrived in a snowy farm, carrying an electron tube to build a radio, which became a lifeline. Despite physical and mental torture, Xu credits VOA for educating him about democracy, human dignity, and even learning English. The programs highlighted discrepancies between U.S. values and the Chinese Communist Party's narratives. Shocked by recent U.S. decisions to dismantle VOA, Xu reflects on its significant impact on individuals like him and affirms its importance in the ideological struggle against oppressive regimes.
Voice of America programs beamed into China shaped my worldview, understanding of constitutional democracy, and values about freedom and human dignity, Mr. Xu expressed.
Millions of Chinese, me included, learned English through Voice of America and listened to its news reports, which contradicted the Chinese Communist Party's narratives.
Voice of America was my school, said Mr. Xu, who spent a decade in harsh conditions but found solace in the programs that challenged the regime.
It’s unfathomable to many Chinese that Washington would surrender the battle of ideas when they learned about the decision to dismantle Voice of America.
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