On February 22, 2024, Chen Guangcheng and William Saunders attended the unveiling of a painting created by Hong Kong democracy advocate, Jimmy Lai. Lai, who is a friend and ally of Guangcheng, is currently incarcerated for his refusal to turn his media outlets into propaganda outlets for the Chinese Communist Party. Lai, a devout Catholic, gave this painting originally to his godfather, Bill McGurn and his wife Julie, a Catholic University trustee, both of whom were present for the unveiling.. The McGurns donated the painting to the Busch School of Business, where it will be permanently displayed outside the chapel. Lai was awarded an honorary degree by Catholic University in 2022. President Peter Kilpatrick, Busch School Dean, Andrew Abela, Father Robert Sirico, University Chaplain Father Aquinas Guilbeau, and oher CUA notables were among those in attendance.
Dr. Saunders, Guangcheng, and Weijing (Guangcheng's wife) attending the event.
Dr. Saunders, Guangcheng, and Weijing (Guangcheng's wife) attending the event.
Left to right: President Kilpatrick, Bill McGurn, Julie McGurn, and Dean Abela
Left to right: President Kilpatrick, Bill McGurn, Julie McGurn, and Dean Abela.
Father Aquinas blesses the art.
Father Aquinas blesses the art.
Father Sirico gives a testimonial about Jimmy Lai.
Father Sirico gives a testimonial about Jimmy Lai.