Federal authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Shen Yun, a New York-based Chinese dance group run by the Falun Gong religious movement, for potential visa fraud and labor violations, according to The New York Times yesterday.
The investigation follows a report in 2024 alleging Shen Yun exploited young dancers by subjecting them to extensive work hours for below minimum wage. A former dancer filed a lawsuit in November, accusing the company of trafficking children, confiscating passports, and exploiting performers. The group says labor laws don't apply to their student performers as they are not working employees. Part of the investigation is also whether the group arranged romantic relationships for its performers.
Shen Yun, known for its anticommunist stance and connection to The Epoch Times, had assets totaling $266M at the end of 2023. Authorities have allegedly sought information about the group's financial and labor practices, including possible directions for performers to smuggle cash into the US.
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