May 31, 2003 (CSN) -- The time is upon us to observe the 14th anniversary of China's 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, a military assault against unarmed pro-democracy demonstrators.

The literal anniversary of the massacre is the night of June 3 - 4, Beijing time. Also termed the "June 4 massacre," this year the observance vigil will be held tomorrow, June 1, 2003. CSN is a co-sponsor, together with other pro-democracy groups, of the Washington event that will occur at dusk Sunday.

The event is an annual reunion of leading dissidents and their supporters in the Chinese pro-democracy cause. Speeches may be expected by dissidents, congressmen, and leaders in the human rights community. With an array of issues facing this crew, we can expect news to arise out of the speeches. There will also be a ritual lighting of candles as dusk arrives.

Leading dissident Wei Jingsheng, in a release, hinted that "During the candle light vigil, a letter from the Tiananmen victims and families inside China will be publicized to the news media that always report our event." A Spirit of Freedom Award will also be announced. His release noted that the Wei Jingsheng Foundation, and the Overseas Chinese Democracy Coalition, are among the co-sponsors of this year's event.

In a partial speakers list, leading dissidents Wei Jingsheng and Danxuan Yi will address the gathering, as will Wang Dan, famed as a leader of the 1989 student uprising that became massacred at Tiananmen Square. Congressman Sherrod Brown is also expected to speak.

The Laogai Research Foundation, and the Capitol Area Tibetan Association, are also among the co-sponsors. As in prior years, the event is organized by the Independent Federation of Chinese Students and Scholars, and will take place in front of the Chinese embassy.

Event: Tiananmen massacre anniversary 14th observance

Date: June 1, 2003 (Sunday)

Time: 7:00PM - 9:00PM

Location: Tiananmen Park (In front of the Chinese Embassy)
2300 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington DC