The Metro Paper is a free newspaper distributed throughout the public transportation system of Philadelphia. On April 16, 2001, it published a Feature story about Falun Gong entitled, "Banned in China, Falun Gong finds home in U.S." The Metro Editor found the story so compelling, that it was then translated and distributed internationally by Metro International. (Metro International publishes and distributes free daily newspapers in 15 countries, and has a rapidly expanding readership of 8.5 million.)
On November 15, local Philadelphia journalist Matt Hasson was awarded Canada's Molson Prize for Journalism in Sport and Leisure for his story on Falun Gong. It was a precedent for a non-Canadian journalist to receive this award.
On April 26, 2001, The Delaware County Daily Times, a local suburban Philadelphia paper, printed an abridged version of the Metro's story. On December 19, 2001, the article tied for first place, under the Features category, in the Delaware County Press Club's 8th Annual Awards Competition.
Many people around the world were able to become informed about Falun Gong, and the truth about the persecution in China, through this one outstanding article.
Category: April 25 Events