[VT New York] March 18, 2025, Committee of 100, a nonprofit organization consisting of prominent Chinese Americans, today issued a statement condemning H.R. 2147, the Stop CCP Visas Act, introduced by U.S. Representative Riley Moore (R – WV). The proposed bill would prevent Chinese citizens from obtaining any of the three main types of student visas issued by the U.S. – Vocational, Exchange Visitors, and Academic Student visas.
“America has always prospered by welcoming the brightest minds from around the globe. Closing the door to Chinese students not only betrays our values but also weakens our leadership in science, technology, and innovation,” said Gary Locke, Chair of Committee of 100 and former U.S. Ambassador to China. “The Stop CCP Visas Act is not only exclusionary but self – defeating. We must stand for opportunity, not fear, and ensure that talent and progress continue to thrive in our nation.”
Suggesting that every Chinese student, regardless of their background, intentions, or beliefs, is a national security threat is not only inaccurate but also fuels xenophobia, discrimination, and hostility towards an entire group of people – including Chinese Americans in the U.S. Chinese and Chinese American students have long contributed to America’s scientific, technological, and economic progress, and such rhetoric undermines their ability to learn, collaborate, and thrive in an environment free from suspicion and prejudice. Committee of 100 calls on all of our nation’s leaders to uphold the American values of fairness, openness, and equal opportunity. America’s strength comes from welcoming diverse talent from all over the world.
