Sun Jan 25 15:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Former Shen Yun Dancers Allege Forced Labor and Abuse, Sparking Investigation

The Story:

An investigative report by CBS News has revealed allegations of forced labor and abuse within Dragon Springs, the New York State-based training center for Shen Yun, a globally touring performance troupe. Former dancers, Jeff Sun and Ashley Cheng, claim they were subjected to grueling training regimes, denied medical care, and isolated from the outside world as children. These allegations are vehemently denied by Shen Yun representatives, who claim the accusations are part of a coordinated smear campaign by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which considers Shen Yun’s parent organization, Falun Gong, an “evil cult.” The New York Department of Labor has launched an investigation into the claims.

Key Points:

  • Dragon Springs is a 400-acre compound in New York State serving as the creative center and training facility for Shen Yun.
  • Shen Yun’s performances openly criticize the CCP, which has banned Falun Gong since 1999.
  • Jeff Sun and Ashley Cheng, former Shen Yun dancers, have filed a federal lawsuit alleging forced labor and abuse during their time at Dragon Springs, starting in the late 2000s.
  • The former dancers allege they were denied adequate medical care, subjected to physically demanding training, and pressured to portray a positive image of Dragon Springs to their parents.
  • Shen Yun spokeswoman Ying Chen denies the allegations and suggests the lawsuits are part of a CCP campaign to undermine the organization.
  • The Chinese Embassy has labeled Shen Yun “a cult’s propaganda,” using “culture as cover” to deliver indoctrination.
  • The New York Department of Labor is investigating Shen Yun’s working conditions and child labor practices.

Key Takeaways:

  • The allegations against Shen Yun raise serious concerns about the treatment of young performers within the organization.
  • The conflict between Shen Yun and the CCP adds a complex political dimension to the allegations.
  • The investigation by the New York Department of Labor could have significant consequences for Shen Yun’s operations.
  • The case highlights the ongoing tensions between religious freedom, artistic expression, and potential exploitation.
  • The narrative presented by Shen Yun contrasts sharply with the experiences reported by former dancers, prompting a need for thorough and impartial investigation.

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