Balancing Advocacy and Self-Care: Lastly, I wish I had known the importance of balancing advocacy with self-care. Our struggle can be emotionally and mentally draining. I recall a period when I pushed myself too hard, neglecting my health. It resulted in monetary setbacks to my personal well-being and our advocacy efforts. Learning to strike a balance between dedication to the cause and self-care has been a valuable lesson.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Salih Hudayar, Prime Minister of the East Turkistan Government-in-Exile.
Salih Hudayar, a lifelong advocate for East Turkistan, was born into a patriotic Uyghur family in East Turkistan. His family sought refuge in the United States where Hudayar’s activism for East Turkistan began in elementary school. He became a naturalized US citizen and served as an ROTC cadet and member of the Oklahoma Army National Guard. In 2017, Hudayar relocated to Washington DC and founded the East Turkistan National Movement (ETNM). His efforts led to the passage of the Uyghur / East Turkistan Policy Act. Hudayar initially served as the Ambassador to the United States and Assistant to the Prime Minister of the East Turkistan Government in Exile. In 2019 he was elected as Prime Minister of the East Turkistan Government-in-Exile which he is still serving as today.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you tell us a story about what brought you to this specific career path?
As a child in East Turkistan, I witnessed China’s brutal colonization of my homeland and oppression of my people. My dream was to become a general who would liberate my homeland and secure our long-denied independence. However, kidney issues prematurely ended my military career in the United States. Although disheartened, I realized there were other ways to fight for my country. I turned to political advocacy, founding the East Turkistan National Movement in 2017 to address China’s ongoing genocide and advocate for the restoration of East Turkistan’s independence. One of my initial major successes was advocating for the Uyghur Policy Act, which garnered me recognition and led to my election as the Prime Minister of the East Turkistan Government in Exile in November 2019.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your organization?
Shortly after publishing an article in Foreign Policy magazine advocating for East Turkistan’s independence, we were contacted by a British-Pakistani consultancy firm. They claimed to represent wealthy Arab states and offered a Dubai meeting with promises of substantial support, including the use of Socotra Island as a base for our government-in-exile. Upon investigation, we uncovered it was a trap orchestrated by the Chinese government, likely aimed at capturing and eliminating key figures in our government, including myself. I find it amusing how our adversaries underestimate us, thinking we’d foolishly walk into their trap. Far from weakening our resolve, this episode fortified it, emphasizing the need for vigilance as we continue to fight for East Turkistan’s independence.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Sending a press release statement with misspelled terms taught me that details are not just ink on paper; they are the threads that weave the fabric of credibility. It’s not enough to be passionate; one must be accurate, thorough, and impeccable.
Can you describe how you or your organization is making a significant social impact?
The East Turkistan Government-in-Exile stands as more than just a political entity; it embodies the hopes and aspirations of our people. Our unwavering dedication is evident in our actions. We were the first to advocate for the recognition of China’s ongoing Uyghur Genocide, shedding light on the atrocities committed against our people. Additionally, we took historic steps by filing the first-ever legal complaint against Chinese officials at the International Criminal Court, seeking justice for our oppressed population.
Our commitment to East Turkistan’s independence is unparalleled. We tirelessly advocate for its restoration, recognizing it as the only path to securing our nation’s freedoms and continued existence. Our persistent advocacy has made a global impact, leading to the recognition of China’s Uyghur genocide, and resulting in sanctions against those responsible. Simultaneously, we have rekindled the flame of independence and hope among our people, both within East Turkistan and across our global diaspora. This renewed spirit transcends borders, uniting East Turkistanis worldwide around a common cause and vision. We don’t just influence policy; we ignite the fires of liberation, guiding our people toward a future of freedom, sovereignty, and dignity.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
In our pursuit of justice and evidence for our case against Chinese officials at the International Criminal Court, we successfully rescued a key witness who had personally faced China’s atrocities in East Turkistan. This brave individual risked not only his own life but also the lives of his family members to provide evidence. With the assistance of others, our legal team coordinated a daring rescue operation, guiding them to safety in the West. Their testimonies and evidence have now become crucial in our efforts to hold those responsible accountable. Additionally, we’ve helped dozens of Uyghurs obtain asylum in the United States, highlighting our commitment to justice and protecting our people. This underscores our unwavering commitment to justice and the protection of our people.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
Absolutely. Firstly, it’s critical that the international community officially recognizes East Turkistan as an occupied country, much like Tibet. This acknowledgment sends a strong message to China and bolsters our advocacy for independence. Furthermore, governments, organizations, and people worldwide need to provide diplomatic, political, and material support to the East Turkistan Government in Exile, similar to the support extended to the Tibetan Government in Exile and Ukraine.
Secondly, active advocacy for East Turkistan’s decolonization and restoration of independence, in alignment with international law and the right to self-determination, is crucial. This collective support addresses the root cause of the ongoing genocide: Chinese occupation and colonization. The East Turkistan national question must be brought to the agenda of the UN Security Council and presented before the UN General Assembly.
Thirdly, supporting East Turkistan’s ICC case, akin to the support given to Ukraine’s case, and calling for Chinese leaders, including Xi Jinping, to be held accountable for the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity is essential. Additionally, governments need to assist us in countering Chinese transnational repression and intelligence operations, which aim to undermine and suppress our struggle for independence. By taking these actions, the international community can significantly contribute to ending the suffering in East Turkistan and supporting our quest for freedom and dignity.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
I define “Leadership” as the capacity to provide guidance, inspiration, and direction to a community or group of people, particularly in the context of advocating for the rights and freedom of the Uyghur people and the restoration of East Turkistan’s independence. Leadership involves setting a clear and principled example, making informed decisions, and effectively communicating a vision of justice, freedom, and self-determination. An example of leadership in my role as Prime Minister of the East Turkistan Government in Exile is my commitment to tirelessly advocate for the rights and independence of East Turkistan. Through diplomatic efforts, raising awareness, and seeking international support, I strive to inspire and unite not only the Uyghur diaspora but also the international community in our cause. I aim to lead by example, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the principles of justice and freedom, and working towards a better future for the people of East Turkistan.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why.
Certainly, here are “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started
- The Power of Resilience: I wish someone emphasized the importance of resilience in our struggle for East Turkistan’s independence. Over the years, I’ve faced numerous challenges and setbacks, from personal health issues to political obstacles. One story that comes to mind is when I first started advocating for our cause, and I encountered skepticism and indifference. It was disheartening, but I learned that resilience is the key to pushing forward, even in the face of adversity.
- The Significance of Grassroots Support: Initially, I didn’t fully appreciate the power of grassroots support. I was focused on garnering international attention and support from governments and organizations. However, I soon realized that the backing of ordinary people, especially within the East Turkistani / Uyghur diaspora, is invaluable. An illustrative example is when we organized a local rally in our community. The outpouring of support from fellow Uyghurs and community members was not only heartwarming but also highlighted the grassroots foundation of our movement. It reinforced the idea that change often starts at the grassroots level and that community engagement is essential for our cause.
- The Importance of Strategic Alliances: Building strategic alliances is crucial. Initially, I operated somewhat independently, focusing solely on our cause. However, I soon realized the power of collaboration. For instance, when we joined forces with other organizations and like-minded advocates, our collective efforts became more impactful. Together, we could amplify our message and push for meaningful change more effectively.
- The Role of Communication: Effective communication is key to garnering support and spreading awareness. In the early stages, I didn’t fully appreciate the significance of clear and persuasive messaging. Over time, I refined my communication skills, and one turning point was when I delivered a powerful speech at an international forum. It was then that I realized the immense influence words can have in advancing our cause.
- Balancing Advocacy and Self-Care: Lastly, I wish I had known the importance of balancing advocacy with self-care. Our struggle can be emotionally and mentally draining. I recall a period when I pushed myself too hard, neglecting my health. It resulted in monetary setbacks to my personal well-being and our advocacy efforts. Learning to strike a balance between dedication to the cause and self-care has been a valuable lesson.
These insights have shaped my journey in advocating for East Turkistan’s independence, and they continue to guide my actions and decisions today.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could inspire a movement, I would push for a “Global Freedom and Prosperity Initiative.” This initiative represents a multifaceted approach to address pressing global challenges while actively confronting issues like slave labor, economic exploitation, and colonization in East Turkistan. A pivotal aspect of this initiative would involve calling for the boycotting of all goods made in China. By encouraging Western countries and allies to diversify their economic partnerships and reduce their reliance on China, this initiative seeks to free nations from the economic captivity of authoritarian regimes while pushing back against the economic exploitation that plagues regions like East Turkistan. Furthermore, diminishing China’s economic influence would naturally weaken its military and political leverage on the world stage, contributing to enhanced international security and stability and upholding the rules-based order.
Simultaneously, the initiative aims to rebalance global manufacturing by shifting production away from China and towards smaller developing nations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. This move not only curtails exploitation and colonization but also offers economic relief to these regions, potentially reducing immigration pressures in Western countries by creating job opportunities and fostering economic development. Importantly, a weakened China resulting from these efforts would also create a more favorable environment for the pursuit of East Turkistan’s independence, aligning with the core values of justice and freedom. The Global Freedom and Prosperity Initiative is founded on the principles of human rights and justice, actively resisting and condemning slave labor and economic exploitation. Ultimately, it offers a powerful response to complex global challenges while championing the rights and dignity of oppressed communities worldwide, including the Uyghurs in East Turkistan.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
My favorite life lesson quote, one that resounds deeply within our struggle to restore East Turkistan’s independence, comes from John F. Kennedy: “The cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. And one path we shall never choose, and that is the path of surrender or submission.”
In our relentless journey towards restoring East Turkistan’s independence, marked by immense sacrifices and enduring suffering, this quote encapsulates the unwavering commitment of the East Turkistani people to freedom and justice. Just as Americans have paid the price for their freedom and adamantly rejected submission to tyranny, we too stand resolute in our determination to never surrender or submit. Our struggle is driven by an unyielding pursuit of liberty, independence, and survival, and we shall persist in upholding these values, no matter the challenges we face.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
I would want to meet with the President of the United States to emphasize the paramount importance and necessity of East Turkistan’s independence to U.S. national interests and global stability. Our cause transcends regional boundaries; it embodies the very principles of human rights, democracy, and self-determination that the U.S. upholds on the global stage. Moreover, an independent East Turkistan, with its natural and mineral resources, would have a direct, positive impact on fostering green energy, regional and global connectivity, development, and security — making it strategically indispensable. Supporting our quest for independence advances a more secure, democratic, and rights-respecting world. This meeting would clearly illustrate how this alignment serves the vital interests of the United States and humanity as a whole.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
To stay updated on our work and the latest developments related to East Turkistan, you can visit our official website at www.East-Turkistan.Net. For real-time updates and insights, you can also follow us on Twitter. My official Twitter account is @SalihHudayar, and our government in exile is represented on Twitter at @ETExileGov. Additionally, you can follow our national movement’s account at @ETNational.. We actively share news, updates, and important information through these channels. Your engagement and support are vital to advancing our cause.
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Salih Hudayar Is Helping To Change Our World was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.