Honoring the Victims of Communist China’s Tyranny Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]
- Committees
- Foreign Relations Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 21, 2026
Bottom line
This bill mandates the creation of a memorial in Washington D.C. to commemorate victims of human rights abuses by the Chinese Communist Party, with a federal funding cap of $500,000 for design and construction.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the Secretary of State to establish a memorial in International Park, Washington D.C., within two years of enactment. The memorial will honor victims of genocide and crimes against humanity committed by the Chinese Communist Party, particularly under Xi Jinping, and individuals persecuted for exercising fundamental human rights in China. It will include educational elements detailing specific abuses and express U.S. solidarity and hope for liberty for the Chinese people.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this memorial is a crucial step for the United States to publicly acknowledge and condemn the severe human rights abuses committed by the Chinese Communist Party, providing a permanent tribute to victims and a symbol of solidarity with those suffering persecution. They believe it reinforces American values of freedom and human rights on the international stage, sending a clear message about the U.S. commitment to these principles.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the sentiment is noble, establishing such a memorial could further strain diplomatic relations with China, potentially hindering efforts on other critical international issues such as climate change or trade. Some might also question the allocation of federal funds, however limited, for this purpose when other pressing domestic or foreign policy needs exist, or suggest that such a memorial could be perceived as provocative rather than genuinely impactful.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing for quick comprehension of its core purpose and provisions.
Section 3(a)
Mandate to Establish Memorial
This provision requires the Secretary of State to establish a memorial within International Park in Northwest Washington, D.C., within two years of the bill's enactment. The memorial is intended to serve as a permanent tribute to victims of persecution by the Chinese Communist Party.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures a tangible and timely commitment to honoring victims, demonstrating the U.S.'s resolve to acknowledge and condemn human rights abuses.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the establishment of a memorial itself, though debates may arise regarding its location or specific design.
Tradeoffs
Balances the desire for a timely establishment of a memorial with the logistical challenges of design and construction within a specific timeframe and location.
Section 3(b), 3(c), 3(d)
Memorial's Purpose, Message, and Educational Elements
This section defines the memorial's purpose: to honor victims of CCP genocide and crimes against humanity (especially under Xi Jinping) and individuals persecuted for human rights in China. It mandates language expressing U.S. solidarity with the Chinese people and hope for their liberty. It also requires educational elements detailing specific abuses like the Uyghur genocide, suppression of Tibetan/Mongolian cultures, imprisonment of democracy advocates (e.g., Jimmy Lai), and restrictions on freedoms.
Section 5
Funding Mechanism and Expenditure Cap
This provision allows the Secretary of State to use existing appropriated funds for the Department of State, specifically the Bureau of Administration, to carry out the Act. It imposes a strict federal funding limit of $500,000 for the design and construction of the memorial, while explicitly stating that private donations are not subject to this limit. No additional appropriations are authorized.