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Shen Yun Performing Arts, a renowned dance company based in New York, has come under scrutiny by the State Department of Labor for its questionable labor practices involving children and teenagers. The company, which is operated by the Falun Gong religious movement, has been accused of exploiting young performers by requiring them to work long hours on tours without proper compensation.
Former performers have revealed that many of the young dancers and musicians at Shen Yun were children of Falun Gong followers who were brought to the company’s headquarters, Dragon Springs, from overseas. These young performers were given scholarships and accommodations but were often not paid for their work during their first year on tour.
The State Department of Labor has launched an inquiry into Shen Yun following reports of these exploitative practices. The agency is responsible for enforcing labor laws related to child labor, minimum wage, and overtime pay. The investigation was initiated after concerns were raised by The New York Times, which highlighted the labor issues faced by performers at Shen Yun.
Former performers, such as violinist Eugene Liu, have spoken out about their experiences working for Shen Yun. Liu performed in numerous shows for the company but received minimal pay, despite the demanding schedule and harsh training conditions. Many performers, especially young individuals, lacked the ability to negotiate fair wages due to their circumstances.
Shen Yun’s reliance on young performers, many of whom are children of Falun Gong practitioners, has raised ethical concerns about the treatment of these individuals. The company’s practice of offering scholarships and housing in exchange for unpaid work has been criticized as exploitative and unfair to the young performers.
The State Department of Labor’s inquiry into Shen Yun’s labor practices underscores the importance of upholding labor laws to protect vulnerable workers, especially children and teenagers. By investigating the company’s treatment of young performers, the agency aims to ensure that all workers are treated fairly and receive appropriate compensation for their work.
In conclusion, the investigation into Shen Yun Performing Arts by the State Department of Labor sheds light on the challenges faced by young performers in the entertainment industry. It is essential to address labor issues and protect the rights of workers, particularly children and teenagers, to prevent exploitation and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
Source: The NY Times
