Zhang Jianhong

Zhang Jianhong (also known as "Lihong", March 6, 1958 - December 31, 2010), a native of Ningbo, Zhejiang, is a famous poet, writer and human rights activist. He was awarded the 2008 Democracy Award and was an honorary member of PEN America and PEN Australia Melbourne. In 2007, the court sentenced him to six years in prison and deprivation of political rights for one year for inciting subversion of state power. In 2007, he was diagnosed with ALS in prison, and the authorities have always rejected his application for medical parole. In June 2010, his condition became critical and he was allowed to be released on medical parole. He was unable to be cured and died on December 31, 2010 at the age of 52.