US probes Falun Gong’s dance group Shen Yun over possible child labour abuse
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Shen Yun Performing Arts, a renowned dance company, has been accused of exploiting children and teenagers for its global performances, earning millions while offering minimal compensation. The New York State Department of Labor has now launched an inquiry into the company’s labor practices
Shen Yun Performing Arts, a prominent dance company, has for years used children and teenagers to stage its shows worldwide. While the company earned millions of dollars per season, it offered little to no compensation to its young performers. However, recent month have seen, following an investigative report by The New York Times, the New York State Department of Labor (DOL) opening an inquiry into the group’s practices.
In August, as per the NYT report, Shen Yun had violated state child labor laws by employing underage dancers and musicians without the necessary permits.
The NYT reports that legal experts say the law requires performance groups to obtain certification before using minors in performances, ensure proper working conditions, and set aside a portion of performers’ earnings in a trust account. Many former Shen Yun performers, however, were unaware of such protections.
Shen Yun, operated by the Falun Gong religious movement from its sprawling campus in Orange County, New York, has drawn scrutiny for its reliance on underage performers. These performers, many from families of Falun Gong adherents, travel from overseas to join the company, receiving full scholarships that cover tuition, room, and board. However, former performers claim the company failed to provide adequate pay, long hours, and harsh conditions during their tours.
Content retrieved from: https://www.firstpost.com/world/us-probes-falun-gongs-dance-group-shen-yun-over-possible-child-labour-abuse-13836138.html.
