State Department Ties Nonprofit Groups to Chinese Influence
On Tuesday, the State Department submitted a report to Congress that associates leftist nonprofit organizations, specifically Code Pink and People’s Forum, with operations influenced by China.
In a statement shared with the Post, Sarah Rogers, the Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, accused “partisan hacks” of fostering misleading narratives about Russia while ignoring a complex network of far-left organizations that promote the Chinese Communist Party’s agenda. She emphasized that groups like Code Pink and People’s Forum tarnish the image of the United States, downplay the violent actions of the Marxist regime, and, intriguingly, seem to benefit from financial support linked to the Chinese Communist Party.
Rogers asserted, “The State Department will seek complete transparency regarding donor and NGO networks lobbying for our adversaries and trying to undermine America’s determination.”
The report, part of a broader analysis on Countering Foreign Information Operations and Interference, states that China is utilizing influence campaigns run by nonprofit groups, including Code Pink and People’s Forum, alongside organizations tied to what is referred to as the “Singham Network.” This network is reportedly funded by tech investor Neville Roy Singham, whose wife co-founded Code Pink.
Singham, who has made a life in China, is said to collaborate closely with the Chinese government’s media machinery and finances its global propaganda efforts, as highlighted in a 2023 report by a leading magazine.
The investigation indicates that Chinese diplomats, state-run media, and pro-Beijing influencers exploit social media techniques, content-sharing strategies, and local partnerships to distribute pro-Communist Party narratives. Moreover, the report notes that China invests in public diplomacy, educational exchanges, and cultural initiatives to enhance its global image.
The State Department’s findings suggest a coordinated effort by China, Iran, and Russia to leverage state media, agencies, and digital platforms to propagate misinformation, undermine the credibility of the United States, and amplify their own influence.
Code Pink, established in 2002 as an anti-war movement, has faced criticism for alleging that the U.S. instigates conflicts, particularly concerning its stance on China.
The nonprofit is known for advocating a narrative that includes campaigns such as “China is Not Our Enemy,” which has raised eyebrows at the State Department.
Activists from Code Pink frequently organize protests and have been involved in efforts to disrupt congressional hearings. They also encourage Americans to visit China, suggesting that participants could “learn about the history of the revolution.” One trip participant expressed a desire to “protect” China from what they described as U.S. governmental threats.
In addition to hosting events that glorify the Chinese communist revolution—which, it’s important to note, led to the deaths of millions—Code Pink has experienced backlash from American activists disillusioned by its rhetoric.
Similarly, the People’s Forum in New York has garnered attention for its favorable views on the Chinese revolution, exploring it as a possible inspiration for a leftist movement in the U.S. The organization previously offered instruction on revolutionary processes and organized demonstrations supporting Venezuelan protests after the capture of former dictator Maduro.
While the State Department has highlighted these connections and activities, neither Code Pink nor the People’s Forum responded to requests for comments from the Post.
