Tibet Feed

12 Nobel Laureates to Chinese President: Open Dialogue with Tibet

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Free access for human rights investigators, journalists a key first step

(Ottawa)—A group of 12 Nobel Peace Laureates—including Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Jody Williams, Lech Walesa, Leymah Gbowee and Shirin Ebadi—today sent a letter to Chinese President Hu Jintao urging him to “respect the dignity of the Tibetan people” and open “meaningful dialogue” with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders. The letter is in response to the recent spate of self-immolations of Tibetans—30 in the last year—protesting the ongoing repression of the Tibetan people.

The latest incident of a Tibetan committing suicide by burning occurred last week during President Jintao’s official visit to India, home to thousands of Tibetans living in exile including His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. In their release, the Nobel Peace Laureates called on the Chinese leader to find a non-violent solution to the decades-long conflict—and they reminded him that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has “never sought separatism”. The Laureates are asking for the Chinese government to release Tibetan political prisoners and allow unrestricted access to Tibet for journalists, human rights investigators and diplomats.

In response to the recent self-burnings and rising tensions, the Chinese government has increased its military presence in Tibet and has curtailed the already limited religious freedom of Buddhist monks. Most of the people who have staged protest self-burnings are young Buddhist monks and nuns.

Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Tutu recently visited the Tibetan community in exile in Dharamsala, India and met with his fellow Nobel Peace Laureate, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

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For more information, or to book an interview with a Nobel Peace Laureate, please contact:
Rachel Vincent; rvincent@nobelwomensinitiative.org <mailto:rvincent@nobelwomensinitiative.org> ; 613-569-8400 , ext. 113 or 613-276-9030

President Hu Jintao,
The People's Republic of China
Beijing, China

Dear Mr. President:

The people of Tibet wish to be heard. They have long sought meaningful autonomy, and chosen negotiation and friendly help as their means of attaining it. They now turn to protest. The international community is concerned by the drastic expressions of resentment by the people of Tibet through self-immolation. The Chinese government should hear their voices, understand their grievances and find a nonviolent solution.

That solution is offered by our friend and brother His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who has never sought separatism, and has always chosen a peaceful path. We strongly urge the Chinese government to seize the opportunity he provides for a meaningful dialogue. Once formed, this channel should remain open, active and productive. It should address issues that are at the heart of the current tension, respecting the dignity of the Tibetan people and the integrity of China.

Specifically, we are respectfully requesting that the Chinese government release all those who have been arbitrarily detained; cease the intimidation, harassment and detention of peacef

6th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Parliamentary Friends of Tibet – Canada

Tibetan Parliament in Exile

International Network of Parliamentarians on Tibet

MEDIA ADVISORY

April 20, 2012

Ottawa - His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Jason Kenney and Nancy Pelosi will speak to an audience of international parliamentarians at the inaugural session of the WPCT conference on April 27^th at 1:30 p.m. The inaugural session will be preceded with a pre-convention panel discussion chaired by Richard Gere: Inter-dependence between China and the World.

Plenary sessions will feature discussion of: environmental, social and human rights issues in Tibet and will result in the issuing of the Ottawa Declaration and action plan. Full agenda and biographies are attached.

The Chair and Vice Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Tibet (Canada), Senator Consiglio Di Nino, Irwin Cotler, Peggy Nash and David Sweet will be available for interviews as will be the Co-Chairs of the International Network of Parliamentarians on Tibet, Matteo Mecacci and Thomas Mann. Requests can be made for interviews with speakers.

Accreditation:

Parliamentary Press Gallery Accreditation will be accepted.
Media who are not accredited with the Parliamentary Press Gallery can request accreditation by sending a letter of assignment to Collin Lafrance ( collin.lafrance@parl.g.ca ) no later than Wednesday April 25^th.
Accreditation for the 6th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet will also be accepted at the public talk of His Holiness on Saturday April 28^th.

Media registration and information will be available at the Government Conference Centre on April 27 8:30 a.m.

Date: April 27 -29 2012
Location: Government Conference Centre, 2 Rideau St. Ottawa

Contact: Barbara Boraks

647 964-7598

borakb@sen.parl.gc.ca

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Dalai Lama to speak at Ottawa Civic Centre

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Public Talk by the Dalai Lama

Ottawa,
Saturday, 28^th
April 2012

The Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) is honoured to host a historic Public Talk by His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama on Saturday, 28 April at the Ottawa Civic Centre Arena. Doors open at 9:00 AM and the Public Talk will start at 10:00 AM.

Special guest Master of Ceremonies
to be announced later.

Public Talk Information:

Ethics for a Whole World:
A Public Talk by the Dalai Lama
Date: Saturday, 28 April
2012
Time: Doors open at 9:00 AM
Location: Ottawa Civic Centre,
1015 Bank St.
Tickets: Ticketmaster, www.ticketmaster.ca,
613.755.1111

For more information: www.tibet.ca

tibet.ca/2012

https://www.facebook.com/groups/406528756029733/

Founded in 1987 and celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the CTC is an independent, non-governmental organization of Tibetans and non-Tibetans living in Canada, concerned with the continuing human rights violations and lack of democratic freedom in Tibet. This will be the Dalai Lama’s fourth visit to Ottawa. His Holiness the Dalai Lama last visited Ottawa in October 2007 where he met Prime Minister Stephen Harper and also gave a public
talk to a sold-out Civic Centre.

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For more information:

Shelagh Mills
Canada Tibet Committee
514.487.0665

Highlights from the 2011 Montreal Public Talk

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_P_qAEuW4KY

The CTC's work is funded entirely by donations we receive from our members and generous supporters. Even the smallest of contribution goes so far in helping us support Tibet and human rights. Please consider making a donation at http://www.tibet.ca/en/join_donate/ today.

Le travail du CCT est financé entièrement par les dons que nous recevons de nos membres et des supporteurs généreux. Même la plus petite contribution nous permet de faire un bon bout de chemin dans la lutte aux droits de la personne au Tibet. SVP, considérez faire un don aujourd'hui auhttp://www.tibet.ca/fr/join_donate/

Kalon Dicki Chhoyang Issues Statement Regarding Critical Situation in Tibet

CTA — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Press Statement:

The Central Tibetan Administration is deeply concerned and alarmed
over the recent news of three more self-immolations in Serthar
(Sichuan) on Friday, February 3, 2012.

Unconfirmed reports state that three Tibetans were involved, two of
them aged in the 60s and 30s respectively. All three have sustained
injuries, but their exact condition and whereabouts remain unknown.

We also hear reports of build-up of security forces and police in
and around the city of Lhasa, and its key monasteries, Ganden,
Sera, and Drepung. Furthermore, draconian measures to restrict
movement of Tibetans in the capital could further aggravate the
tense situation in Tibet. With Tibetan New Year on
February 22nd and the March 10th anniversary of the 1959 Tibetan
uprising coming up, we fear there will be further bloodshed and
loss of lives. The Central Tibetan Administration, the Tibetan
community’s democratically-elected representative, urges the
international community to directly and immediately engage the
Central Chinese leadership to assert its control over local
authorities and forbid police violence and shooting of unarmed
citizens.

Drastic actions, such as the self-immolations, indicate to us that
the Chinese policies in Tibet have reached new levels of
repression. Not mere acts of protest, these actions convey a
message which cannot be ignored. They represent an emphatic
rejection of the continued occupation of Tibet and repressive
policies of the Chinese government. They stand firm for the freedom
of the Tibetan people. Over fifty years ago, thousands of Tibetans
were forced to flee into exile due to the Chinese occupation of
Tibet. Since then, a broad global network of friends of Tibet has
been built. Today, at this critical time, we wish to express our
heartfelt gratitude to all those individuals, non governmental
organizations, Tibet support groups, and the various foreign
governments who have recently publicly expressed their concern for
the present situation in Tibet. Your unwavering support for truth
and justice has made it possible for the Tibetan issue to still be
alive.

We call on the Chinese government to address the underlying
grievances of the Tibetan people. Only then, will there be a
lasting solution to the escalating tensions in the region and the
longstanding dispute between Tibetans and the Chinese government.
As witnessed recently, Tibetan areas have been closed off and
members of the press have been denied access. The international
community must let leaders in Beijing know unequivocally that the
world is concerned and closely watching events inside Tibet.

To show solidarity and to raise its voice in support of the
fundamental rights of the Tibetan people at this critical time, we
invite the international community to participate in a worldwide
vigil for Tibet on February 8, 2012. We request everyone to conduct
these vigils peacefully, in accordance with the laws of your
country, and with dignity. In Dharamsala, the Central Tibetan
Administration will hold a prayer service at 3 PM at the
Tsuglakhang-Main Temple.

Kalon Dicki Chhoyang
Dept. of Information and International Relations
February 6, 2012

This is the link to the video shown prior to the press conference
today by Kalon Dicki Chhoyang at Dharamsala. You can watch it from
tibetonline.tv

the direct link to the video is
http://tibetonline.tv/videos/963/tibetan%27s-fierce-objection-to-
unjust-and-repressive-rule-by-china

Kalon Tripa’s Losar Statement

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Tashi Delek to Tibetans and friends around the world! Warm Losar
greetings from Dharamsala, which falls on February 22.

As requested, please do not celebrate Losar this year, but do
observe traditional and spiritual rituals by going to the
monastery, making offerings, and lighting butter lamps for all
those Tibetans inside Tibet who have sacrificed and suffered under
the repressive policies of the Chinese government.

News from Tibet continues to be grim. Tibet is virtually sealed off
with foreigners not allowed to enter. Even Chinese tourists are
prevented from visiting Tibet, and the military buildup is very
heavy. [The Chinese government has launched a massive crackdown on
Tibetans who visited India for the Kalachakra Teachings. Several
hundred Tibetans have been detained and are being forced to undergo
political re-education [please see the news release from Human
Rights Watch] . We are extremely worried over what is happening and
what might happen inside Tibet. Under such circumstances, please do
pray for all Tibetans inside Tibet especially on the third, eight,
tenth and fifteenth day of Losar, as these are auspicious days.

March 10, our National Uprising Day, is coming up soon. There will
be many other activities as well where Tibetans and our friends
will be requested to participate. Please remember and observe the
guidelines issued by CTA, which is to organize and participate in
events peacefully, legally and with dignity. Peacefully because non-
violence is our core principle. Legally as we are in a democratic
country and have to follow the law of the land, and with dignity
because we are seeking our freedom and dignity

Tibet Lobby Day is also coming up when Tibetans and friends lobby
parliaments or the congress and share with members our concern over
Tibet and the continuing repressive policies of the Chinese
government. This year is especially important given the unfolding
tragedy inside Tibet. It is important that we do the best we can to
approach as many Congressional members and Parliamentarians as
possible so as to make them aware. If possible, please try to have
a resolution passed in the parliament or have a good debate on the
situation inside Tibet. This way the suffering of Tibetans inside
Tibet and their voices will be heard loud and clear around the
world, particularly by the leaders in Beijing.

I would like to thank all those Tibetans and friends who
participated in the global vigil on February 8. According to
various accounts, hundreds of activities were organized around the
world, thousands participated, and the day was very successful.

In conclusion, I want to say to our dear brothers and sisters
inside Tibet that you are in our hearts and prayers every day.

Letter from the Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China to Prime Minister Harper on eve of visit to China

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

The Right Honourable Stephen Harper

Prime Minister of Canada

80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A2
by fax: 613 941 6900

January 31, 2012

Dear Prime Minister,

We are writing to you, as members of the Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China,¹ in advance of your upcoming visit to China. We view your visit as a valuable opportunity to advance human rights as a key priority in Canada’s relationship with China and in particular to highlight a number of critical issues, including the plight of prisoners of conscience. We recognize that you face competing pressures regarding issues to prioritize, including trade considerations at a time of economic uncertainty. We trust that you will agree with us that human rights cannot be sold short to these interests. The rights of the many millions of people who face injustices at the hands of Chinese authorities on a daily basis matter too much to be given secondary attention. And ultimately, the relationship between Canada and China will be stronger if it is grounded in mutual respect for key international human rights principles.

A critical moment

Prime Minister, you travel to China at a critical time for increased and more forceful attention to human rights in the China/Canada relationship for three key reasons.

First, the past year has been a very difficult time for human rights protection in China. Coming in the wake of the global human rights scrutiny that accompanied the Beijing Olympics in 2008 or the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Liu Xiaobo in 2010, the international community’s interest in China’s human rights situation appears to have waned during 2011. Unfortunately, that diminished concern comes alongside deterioration in China’s human rights record.

Notably, throughout the year there has been a relentless crackdown against the country’s beleaguered human rights community. Human rights lawyers and other activists have been arrested, disappeared in custody, subjected to torture and ill-treatment, held for long periods without charge or trial, and convicted after blatantly unfair trials. The crackdown reflects Chinese government fears that reformers in China intended to launch a peaceful protest movement similar to the so-called “Arab Spring”. But while the world spoke out forcefully about the repression in the Middle East and North Africa, China’s moves against individuals pressing for democratic and human rights change went largely unchallenged by other states.

Against this backdrop, changes to China’s Criminal Procedure Law have been proposed which would allow detention for up to six months in undisclosed locations without charge or trial, essentially legalizing “disappearances.”

Second, your visit comes at a time when the balance of influence Canada has with China has shifted in important ways. Past Canadian governments have argued that Canada holds little sway with China and that forcefulness with respect to human rights concerns will be ignored and will only harm Canada’s commercial links with the country. However, that has changed considerably in recent years with the Chinese government’s notable interest in gaining a foothold in the Canadian natural resource sector, including oil, gas and mining companies and projects. That merits, in our view, a more confident and bold willingness to raise human rights concerns during your meetings with Chinese officials.

Third, we have noted the priority your government has given to the need for strengthened protection of the right to freedom of religion, reflected in the decision to establish an Office of Religious Freedom within the Department of Foreign Affairs. Many of the very serious human rights problems prevailing in China involve violations of this right, be it the persecution of Tibetans and Uyghurs, the campaign against practitioners of Falun Gong, and the ban on “underground” Christian churches. The government’s decision to establish an Office of Religious Freedom, with a global mandate, offers a timely opportunity to raise these concerns.

In particular, the unprecedented wave of self-immolations as a form of desperate protest by sixteen Tibetans in recent months, and the demonstrations by Tibetans and escalating violence by Chinese security forces in response in Sichuan Province over the past week, are all cause for grave alarm.

In fact, the human rights situation in China continues to be worrying on very many fronts and has worsened recently in some respects. Attached to this letter we have provided a summary of some of the key concerns of members of our Coalition. We have also included a list of ten cases of individuals detained in China at this time who we consider to be unjustly imprisoned. A complete list of such cases would, unfortunately, be far too lengthy to compile. This list is a selection of emblematic cases which we feel represents that range of cases.

Recommendations:

Prime Minister, we began this letter urging that you make human rights issues a priority focus of your upcoming visit to China. In that regard we specifically call on you to:

Raise concerns about the worsening situation in Tibet, in line with previous statements made by the US and German governments.
Press for reforms to be instituted to ensure that the right to religious freedom and all other universally-recognized human rights of Falun Gong practitioners, Uyghurs, Tibetans, Christians and other faith groups is fully respected.
Raise concerns about the prisoner cases outlined in the list compiled by our Coalition. The document includes the case of Husseyin Celil, which we expect you will pursue at all possible opportunities. We urge you to press forcefully for Canadian consular access to Mr. Celil finally to be granted, and demand that due to the failure to provide him with a fair trial he should be promptly and unconditionally released.
Make it clear that Canada is gravely concerned about the crackdown against human rights lawyers and activists.
Urge that the proposed changes to the Criminal Procedure Law be withdrawn and that any further reforms be consistent with international human rights requirements.

We will follow the news of your visit with close interest and look forward to hearing of the efforts you take to press these and other human rights concerns while you are in China.

Sincerely,

Alex Neve

Secretary General

Amnesty International Canada,

on behalf of the Canadian Coalition for Human Rights in China

1 This letter is endorsed by the following member organizations of the Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China: Amnesty International Canada (English & Francophone Branches), ARC International, Canada Tibet Committee, Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network, Federation for a Democratic China, Movement for Democracy in China (Calgary), PEN Canada, Students for a Free Tibet Canada, Toronto Association for Democracy in China, the Uyghur Canadian Society and the Vancouver Society in Support of Democratic Movement in China.

Summary of specific concerns

Tibet:

The situation for Tibetans is very distressing and has been highlighted by the deepening despair that has led 16 Tibetans to set themselves on fire in protest of China’s policies. Some of these self-immolations are linked to the situation at Kirti Monastery and other monasteries, which are surrounded by heavily armed riot police, and widespread arrests of monks and nuns. Tibet has once again been closed to foreign visitors, until the end of March. Notably, the US and German governments have spoken out and expressed concern about the situation in Tibet.

Falun Gong:

The crackdown against Falun Gong, underway for more than a decade now, does not abate. Falun Gong practitioners constitute one of the largest groups of prisoners in the country. Last year the campaign against Falun Gong intensified, with sweeping detention, unfair trials leading to long sentences, enforced disappearances and deaths in detention following torture. The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture has noted that Falun Gong practitioners may account for 2/3 of victims of alleged torture in government custody.

Uyghurs:

Extensive human rights violations continue against the Uyghur population. It is 2½ years since the massive crackdown following violence and protests in 2009. Hundreds were arrested at the time. The clampdown against Uyghur dissent has deepened, with numerous Uyghur journalists or managers of Uyghur websites being sentenced to lengthy prison terms. We know that you personally have intervened with Chinese officials previously about the case of Canadian citizen Husseyin Celil, a Uyghur originally from Xinjiang. He has been imprisoned in China for over 5 years now, and is serving a life prison term after a blatantly unfair trial.

Reformers, Lawyers, Activists and Journalists:

Democratic reformers, human rights activists and independent journalists remain under siege. Liu Xiaobo is still in prison of course, more than one year now since his chair was so starkly empty at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. In general, over the past year, numerous individuals have been imprisoned for no other reason than peacefully expressing their opinion about democratic and human rights reform in China. This includes a continuing crackdown against individuals who share their views over the internet, particularly bloggers. Lawyers who dare take up human rights cases pay a heavy price. The case of human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng demonstrates that very clearly. His three year prison sentence, which had been suspended, was reinstated last month. In general, unfair trials, arbitrary detentions and use of fabricated charges against journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders are all prevalent.

Disappearances:

For years there has been a widely documented pattern of people from a whole variety of backgrounds disappearing in the Chinese prison system. Individuals disappear into so-called “black jails”, their detention unacknowledged, access to family and lawyers denied, and no legal process pursued. Many human rights activists have suffered this fate. The Chinese government is poised to legalize this practice through amendments to the country’s Criminal Procedure Law which would allow detainees to be held for up to six months in undisclosed locations in cases involving state security, terrorism or serious corruption. It is a troubling recipe for increased human rights violations.

Labour:

Labour activists are clearly another group of concern, regularly harassed and restricted. Internal migrant workers in China remain one of the most vulnerable groups in the country. Health and safety legislation is routinely ignored and accidents covered up. Despite threat of arrest and other intimidation, many workers are taking action to raise these concerns.

Prisoners of Conscience in the People's Republic of China

We, the Canadian Coalition on Human Rights in China* submit a list of jailed prisoners of conscience. Each individual case has not necessarily been investigated or taken up by each of the organizations. They are presented together here as a compilation in alphabetical order. We request Canadian authorities to inform us of their situation, and to urge the Chinese government to release them immediately and unconditionally.

Index	Prisoner’s Name
	Wang, Bingzhang 王炳章also known as Lou Kaiwen or Qi Xia
	Liu Xiaobo
	Dhondup Wangchen
	Wang, Zhiwen 王治文
	Nurmehemmet Yasin 努力默赫默德. 亚森
	Gao Zhisheng 高智晟
	Shi, Tao 师涛
	Yang Tongyan 杨同彦 (alternate name: Yang, Tianshui 杨天水)
	Yang Chunlin 杨春林also known as Li, Zhi 李志
	Huseyin Celil

Lhamo Tso, wife of Political Prisoner to launch Cross-Canada Advocacy tour for her husband

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Press Release from SFT Canada National Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE APRIL 26 2012

CONTACT: Urgyen Badheytsang 647-637 1810

(Toronto, ON) – (Toronto, ON) – Lhamo Tso, a Tibetan refugee and the wife of imprisoned Tibetan filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen will launch her first Canada-wide tour this Monday, April 30th to advocate for her husband’s release from Chinese prison.

The mother of four has been touring the world to raise the profile of her husband who is currently serving a six-year prison sentence for filming Tibetans in Tibet speaking openly about Chinese rule in advance of the Beijing Olympics. His case has previously been raised in the Canadian Parliament and by government leaders around the world.

Lhamo Tso will be speaking in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver, Victoria and Calgary (see full event schedule below).

In Toronto, Lhamo Tso will hold two speaking events: at the Parkdale Library at 5:30 pm, on 1303 Queen Street West and at the Amnesty Toronto office at 7 pm, on 1992 Yonge Street.

“If human rights were respected in Tibet, my husband would never have been arrested for simply making a film,” said Lhamo Tso on one of her tours. “People living in free countries have the right to free expression, but this does not exist inside Tibet. Despite my husband’s deteriorating health, he is being forced to work long hours in a prison labor camp.”

Lhamo Tso will be appealing for Canadians to join her call for Dhondup Wangchen’s immediate release as a prisoner of conscience. He filmed Tibetans speaking openly about the Dalai Lama and Chinese policies in Tibet in the lead up to the Beijing 2008 Olympics. He was arrested in March 2008 and charged with “inciting subversion”, and imprisoned in a closed door trial. His chosen lawyer was denied access to the court by the Chinese authorities. His imprisonment is a direct violation of international legal standards.

Students for a Free Tibet campaigns for the release of Dhondup Wangchen and other Tibetan political prisoners whose rights have been unjustly violated by the Chinese government. For more information visit www.SFT-Canada.org, www.FreeTibetanHeroes.org, www.Tibet.ca or www.Amnesty.ca

The tour is being coordinated by Students for a Free TIbet Canada, Amnesty International Canada, Canada Tibet Committee, and the Tibetan Associations of Quebec and Alberta

Minister Kenney issues statement recognizing Losar

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Ottawa, February 22, 2012 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing Losar, the Tibetan New Year:

Today, Tibetan Buddhists in Canada and around the world mark Losar, the most important day of the lunar Tibetan calendar.

On this first day of 2139, the Year of the Water Dragon, I recall with fondness my participation in past Losar festivities.

I have also had the great honour of meeting more than once with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, one of the world’s great champions of peace and pluralism and an honorary Canadian citizen.

Losar is traditionally a time of celebration and joyful gatherings with family and community. We are aware of calls that this year’s celebrations be cancelled on account of the growing unrest. Canada stands in support of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Chinese citizens, including ethnic Tibetans.

As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I wish peace in the new year to all who mark this holiday.

I reflect today on the Dalai Lama’s lecture after he accepted the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize. In it, His Holiness quoted the words of one of his favorite prayers, written by the 8th Century Buddhist master Shantideva:

For as long as space remains,

For as long as sentient beings remain,

Until then may I too remain

To dispel the miseries of the world.

http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/statements/2012/2012-02-22.asp

Richard Gere to Emcee Public Talk with Dalai Lama in Ottawa

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Ottawa the Only Canadian Stop on Worldwide “Ethics for a Whole World” Speaking Tour

Ottawa, April 17, 2012 – The Canada Tibet Committee announced today that Hollywood actor and practicing Buddhist Richard Gere will be in Ottawa to attend the Dalai Lama’s “Ethics for a Whole World” public talk on April 28, 2012. As a long-time supporter of the Dalai Lama, Gere will introduce His Holiness for at a public talk organized by the Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) being held at the Ottawa Civic Center.

“Human rights, ethics, resource and opportunity equality are the most important issues we face today,” Gere said. “His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s consistent message of universal responsibility is key to our being able to survive global challenges and achieve a new vision of genuine peace and prosperity. This discussion couldn’t take place in China or, Chinese-controlled Tibet. I sincerely hope the Canadian people will continue their steadfast support for our Tibetan brothers and sisters, and take advantage of this very special opportunity to spend two hours with the Dalai Lama.”

The Dalai Lama’s visit to Ottawa is the only Canadian stop on the North American leg of his worldwide speaking tour. In both 2004 and 2007, the Dalai Lama spoke to two sold-out Ottawa Civic Centre crowds. This year’s event will examine how religion is not a necessity for pursuing a spiritual life and how “Ethics for a Whole World” proposes a system of secular ethics grounded in a deep appreciation of our common humanity.

“As an organization committed to the principle of non-violence and the spirit of volunteerism, it’s an honor to host His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama in Ottawa. The CTC works to build support for Tibet at the community level and we applaud the Government of Canada and Richard Gere’s efforts to bring these issues to the national and international stage,” said Nima Dorjee, Canada Tibet Committee.

Richard Gere is an internationally renowned actor, social activist and philanthropist. Since the 1980’s, Gere has been an advocate for the Tibetan people and the preservation of Tibetan culture. He was the co-founding Chairman of Tibet House US in 1987 and in 1992, he joined the Board of Directors at the International Campaign for Tibet where he has served as Board Chairman since 1995.

For more information about the Dalai Lama’s visit to Ottawa please visit: http://www.tibet.ca/2012

Rock for Tibet: the fundraiser tour starts in Montreal

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Benefit concert starring Sunrise and Good People

The Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) and the Montreal rock band Sunrise and Good People are proud to present the first concert of Rock for Tibet, this Thursday March 22nd at Nomad Nation. Doors open at 8PM, concert begins at 9PM.

Concert information:

Rock for Tibet
Date: Thursday, March 22nd
Time: Doors open at 8:00 PM
Location: Nomad Nation, 129 Van Horne
Price: 10$ (donation)

For more information: www.facebook.com/rock4tibet

www.tibet.ca/projecttibetsociety
www.facebook.com/tibetresettlementproject

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For more information:

Xavier Auclair
Sunrise and Good People, Rock for Tibet
514.265.1973

info@sunriseandgoodpeople.com

Statement by Kalon Tripa Dr. Lobsang Sangay on the recent killings of Tibetans by the P. R. China’s government

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

As Chinese everywhere were celebrating the first couple of days of
the Year of Dragon on January 23rd and 24th, 2012. Chinese police
fired indiscriminately on hundreds of Tibetans who had gathered
peacefully to claim their basic rights in Drakgo, Serthar, Ngaba,
Gyarong, and other neighboring Tibetan areas. Six Tibetans were
reportedly killed and around sixty injured, some critically.

Because of gruesome acts such as these and the systematic
repression of Tibetans, the resentment and anger amongst Tibetans
against Chinese government has only grown since the massive
uprising of 2008.

Ever since the invasion of Tibet, the Chinese government has
claimed that it seeks to create a socialist paradise. However,
basic human rights are being denied to Tibetans, the fragile
environment is being destroyed, Tibetan language and culture is
being assimilated, portraits of His Holiness the Dalai Lama are
banned, and Tibetans are being economically marginalized. Tibet is
in virtual lockdown. Foreigners have been barred from travelling to
Tibet now and the entire region is essentially under undeclared
martial law.

I urge the Chinese leadership to heed the cries of the Tibetan
protestors and those who have committed self-immolation. You will
never address the genuine grievances of Tibetans and restore
stability in Tibet through violence and killing. The only way to
resolve the Tibet issue and bring about lasting peace is by
respecting the rights of the Tibetan people and through dialogue.
As someone deeply committed to peaceful dialogue, the use of
violence against Tibetans is unacceptable and must be strongly
condemned by all people in China and around the world.

I call on the international community to show solidarity and to
raise your voices in support of the fundamental rights of the
Tibetan people at this critical time. I request that the
international community and the United Nations send a fact-finding
delegation to Tibet and that the world media be given access to the
region as well. The leaders in Beijing must know that killing its
own “family members” is in clear violation of international and
Chinese laws, and such actions will cast further doubts on China’s
moral legitimacy and their standing in world affairs.

I want to tell my dear brothers and sisters inside Tibet that we
hear your cries loud and clear. We urge you not to despair and
refrain from extreme measures. We feel your pain and will not allow
the sacrifices you have made go in vain. You all are in our heart
and prayers each and every day.

To my fellow Tibetans, I request you not to celebrate Losar
(Tibetan New Year), which falls on February 22 this year. However,
please observe the basic customary religious rituals such as going
to temple, burning incense and making traditional offerings.

To demonstrate our solidarity with Tibetans in Tibet, I urge
Tibetans and our friends around the world, to participate in a
worldwide vigil on Wednesday, February 8, 2012. Let’s send a loud
and clear message to the Chinese government that violence and
killing of innocent Tibetans is unacceptable! I request everyone to
conduct these vigils peacefully, in accordance with the laws of
your country, and with dignity.

A video message of this statement is available with the following
link: www.tibetonline.tv.

Statement of Kashag on 53rd Tibetan National Uprising Day

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

Statement of Kalon Tripa Dr. Lobsang Sangay (Political Head of the
Tibetan People) on the 53rd Anniversary of the Tibetan National
Uprising Day

Today, on the 53rd anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day
and the fourth anniversary of the 2008 mass protests in Tibet, I
offer tribute to the brave people who have sacrificed so much for
Tibet. Despite fifty-three years of occupation by the People’s
Republic of China (PRC), the Tibetan spirit and identity inside
Tibet remains unbroken.

On this occasion, I pay homage to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for
his vision, leadership and benevolence. I also pay my deepest
respect and gratitude to our elders for their contribution and
tireless effort that have sustained our movement’s growth and
dynamism over the past fifty years.

One year ago, when His Holiness the Dalai Lama announced the
transfer of his political power to a democratically elected leader,
Tibetans were apprehensive and implored him to reconsider. Today,
the world recognizes and applauds His Holiness’ vision and
magnanimous decision. Tibetans are making a smooth transition with
the free, fair and multi-candidate 2011 parliamentary and Kalon
Tripa elections that involved exile and diaspora Tibetans in over
forty countries.

I am deeply honored by the spiritual blessings, legitimacy,
political authority and continuity bestowed upon me by His Holiness
the Dalai Lama. In his statement at my inauguration ceremony on
August 8th, 2011, His Holiness said “when I was young, an elderly
regent Takdrag Rinpoche handed over Sikyong (political leadership)
to me, and today I am handing over Sikyong to young Lobsang
Sangay…in doing this, I have fulfilled my long-cherished goal.”

I am also enormously moved by the solidarity and endorsements from
Tibetans inside Tibet during the elections and since assuming my
political post. I have had many deeply moving encounters with
hundreds of Tibetans from Tibet as they generously offered their
blessings and support.

Blessed by the historic transfer of political power from His
Holiness, empowered by the mandate received from the people, and
buoyed by the support and solidarity from Tibetans inside Tibet, I
can say with pride and conviction that the Central Tibetan
Administration legitimately represents and speaks for all six
million Tibetans.

Beijing’s view that a generational change in leadership may weaken
the Tibetan freedom movement has not and will never materialize.
The resiliency of the Tibetan spirit combined with a coming
generation of educated Tibetans will provide dynamic leadership and
sustain the movement till freedom is restored in Tibet.

If the Chinese government’s claim that Tibetans enjoy freedom and
equality are true, then it should allow democratic, transparent,
free and fair elections in Tibet. In the fifty-three years of
Chinese occupation, no Tibetan has ever held the Party Secretary
post of the so- called Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). Chinese hold
majority of the decision-making positions in all branches of the
government and constitute more than fifty percent of the public
sector workforce. Seventy percent of the private sector enterprises
are owned or operated by Chinese. Forty percent of Tibetan high
school and college graduates are unemployed.

The Tibet issue concerns far more than the rights and welfare of
six million Tibetans. It impacts the entire planet. The unique
Tibetan culture, with its rich language, spirituality and history
must be protected. The Tibetan plateau is the ‘world’s third pole’
as it contains the largest ice fields outside the two poles.
Tibetan glaciers, the source of ten major rivers, affect the lives
of more than 1.5 billion people. Billions of dollars worth of
mineral resources are exploited annually to fuel China’s economy.
Decades of logging have reduced Tibet’s pristine forest cover by
half. Clearly, the management of this global common, and the
Tibetan people’s traditional role as its stewards, ought to be a
planetary concern.

When China invaded Tibet in 1949, it promised to usher in a
‘socialist paradise.’ In actuality Tibetans are treated as second-
class citizens. When Tibetans gather peacefully and demand basic
rights as outlined in the Chinese constitution, they are arrested,
fired upon and killed as in the January 23-24th peaceful protests
when Chinese were celebrating their new year. The Communist Party
cadre members in the TAR have been ordered to prepare for a “war”
against the Tibetan protestors.

In stark contrast, in Wukan (Guangdong Province), protests by
Chinese people lasted weeks, their grievances were addressed, one
As
self-immolations in Tibet escalate, global supporters vow to secure
government action

(Montreal, 10 March 2012) – Tibetans and their supporters from Victoria to Toronto and in over 30
countries worldwide are taking to the streets to join the Tibetan resistance and to mark the 53rd anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising when thousands of Tibetans rose up against China’s
invasion and occupation of Tibet; defiantly resisting the repressive policies that continue to this day which have provoked unprecedented instances of self-immolations by Tibetan monks, nuns and laypeople.  

In just under two years, 26 Tibetan monks, nuns and lay people have self-immolated. At least 19 have died (2), including Rinchen, a mother of four children (3). Since the beginning of the year, 13 of the 26 have set themselves alight as an act of protest, calling for freedom for Tibet and the
return of the Dalai Lama.

Similar calls for freedom were also heard during a recent wave of large-scale peaceful protests in January and February when Chinese security forces responded by opening fire on crowds, killing at least five
Tibetans and seriously injuring many more.

“On 10 March 2012 we commemorate every Tibetan who has resisted China’s occupation. We stand in solidarity with Tibetans who are engaging in a nonviolent resistance to take back their freedom.” said Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) Executive Director Dermod Travis.

“We vow to intensify our efforts in support of Tibetans inside Tibet and call on world governments and the global community to escalate pressure on China to end its siege on the Tibetan nation before more
lives are lost.”

The CTC also calls on Canadians to act by contacting China's ambassador at:

Ambassador: Zhang Junsai
Address: 515 ST. Patrick St,
Ottawa, ON KIN 5H3
Tel: 613-789-3434 791-0511
Fax: 613-789-1911
789-1414
E-mail: chinaemb_ca@mfa.gov.cn

More than five decades after the 1959 Uprising, Tibetans in Tibet are continuing to risk everything in defiance of the Chinese leadership, which recently announced it was preparing for “war” against Tibetan “saboteurs” (4).  In an effort to stop news of this unrest reaching the world the Chinese government has sealed Tibet off from foreigners and journalists.

Undercover footage of the military build-up in eastern Tibet shows the intense security that Tibetans are forced to endure. On 6 March, Sky News broadcast an interview with a Tibetan in Ngaba who said “I feel
very sad, you know because of the situation, a lot of the people died, so just Tibetan people alone, no body can help, no body…no body try to help. We are not terrorist, we are buddhism, so we are
not going to harm any other people.” (5)

“China is responsible for writing the darkest chapter in Tibet’s history but we are here today to support Tibetans in their determination to regain their freedom. We say “ENOUGH! to Beijing’s violence and
call for global intervention now to save Tibetan lives”, said Travis. “We call on the government of Canada to join with other world leaders to take new, bold and coordinated action to help secure a just and fair resolution for the Tibetan people, so that they can live their lives in the peace and freedom they have sacrificed so much to achieve.”

The Canada Tibet Committee is an independent, non-governmental organization of Tibetans and
non-Tibetans living in Canada, concerned with the continuing human rights violations and lack of democratic freedom in Tibet.

- 30 -

For more information:
Dermod Travis
514.487.0665

Notes & references:

1. 10 March 2012 is the anniversary of one of the most momentous days in Tibetan history; on this day in 1959 thousands of Tibetans in Tibet took to the streets of Lhasa to protest against Chinese rule and
protect their leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. As China shelled Lhasa, the Dalai Lama was forced to escape from Tibet. In 2008, 10 March was the beginning of the most widespread opposition to China’s
occupation of Tibet as protests swept the Tibetan plateau.

2. See www.StandUpforTibet.org/further-information.

3. See report by the International Campaign for
Tibet: http://www.savetibet.org/media-center/ict-news-reports/tibetan-student-and-widowed-mother-self-immolate-tibet

4. In February 2012, Tibet Autonomous Region Party Secretary Chen Quanguo told officials to prepare for “a war against secessionist sabotage” [Tibet Daily, quoted by The Telegraph, see
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/tibet/9074401/Chinese-police-shoot-dead-two-as-Tibetan-New-Year-approaches.html

5. Sky News 6 March 2012, “China: Self-Immolations are terrorism in disguise”. See http://news.sky.com/home/world-news/article/16183059

Solidarity and Resistance: A video statement by the Global Tibet Movement

English

http://youtu.be/bt5OicEbtig

French

http://youtu.be/y9enCQrARAI

Tibetans before trade: Harper must convey Canada's deep concern over escalating violence

Tibet — 2012-05-23T09:56:36Z

CTC calls on Canadians to contact Chinese ambassador

(Montreal, 26 January 2012) – The Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) is calling on the Canadian government to immediately demand that the Chinese government cease its increasingly violent crackdown on Tibetan protesters which has resulted in at least four deaths this week alone and countless injuries.

Reports from inside Tibet indicate that at least four Tibetans have been killed since Monday after Chinese police opened fire on Tibetan protesters.

At least one Tibetan was killed on Tuesday when police fired on protesters in Serthar (Chinese: Seda) in Kardze.

This followed the Chinese New Year's deaths of three Tibetans after police opened fire on Tibetans who had gathered to protest in Drango, Kardze (the Tibetan area of Kham). Several others were injured in the police shooting.

The escalating crackdown in Drango follows the circulation of leaflets in the area saying that Tibetans should not celebrate the New Year in 2012 because of the self-immolations, and declaring an intention by the unnamed author of the leaflets to set fire to themselves at the time of Tibetan New Year (Losar falls on February 22).

Since February 2009, 17 Tibetans have self-immolated, including 15 men and two women. Twelve of the 17 died following their protest. Ten of the 17 were monks or former monks at the Kirti monastery in Ngaba and one was a nun from Mame Dechen Chokorling nunnery in Ngaba.

In addition to calling upon the Chinese government to cease its violent crackdown, the CTC is also calling upon the Prime Minister to make the plight of Tibetans a priority issue when he meets with President Hu Jintao is a little over two weeks.

As the first western leader to visit China since the crackdown began, Harper has a unique opportunity to convey not only Canada's abhorrence at the escalating violence but also the shared revulsion of western governments. The CTC wrote the Prime Minister on January 16^th, 2012 (copy below).

The CTC is also calling on Canadians to act today by contacting China's ambassador to Canada at:

Ambassador: Zhang Junsai
Address: 515 ST. Patrick St, Ottawa, ON KIN 5H3
Tel: 613-789-3434 791-0511
Fax: 613-789-1911 789-1414
E-mail: chinaemb_ca@mfa.gov.cn

The Canada Tibet Committee is an independent, non-governmental organization of Tibetans and non-Tibetans living in Canada, concerned with the continuing human rights violations and lack of democratic freedom in Tibet.

- 30 -

For more information:

Dermod Travis

514.487.0665

January 16^th CTC letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper

As you will soon be visiting China on your second official visit, the Canada Tibet Committee (CTC) would like to take this opportunity to share our concerns and priorities with you.

In your announcement last Wednesday, you stated: “Our Government is committed to moving our relationship with China forward by focusing on deepening economic ties, including opening new markets, and setting the foundation for long-term growth”. It's unfortunate that a reference to Canada's long-standing concerns with the Government of China's human rights practices was omitted from this announcement. It's our position that human rights and trade are not mutually exclusive.

In 2010, former Ambassador Derek Burney wrote: “We do not have to camouflage our differences (with China). Nor do we have to “go along or kowtow to get along.” That is a juvenile concept that has nothing to do with fundamental foreign policy analysis. A more adult approach to the relationship by both countries would allow for honest disagreements on issues such as human rights.”

We agree. Compromising our values is not the Canadian way.

As your government knows, sixteen Tibetans have self-immolated since 2009. On past official visits, US leaders have made a point of worshipping in Beijing. We urge you to do the same. Tibetan monks who have self-immolated as a desperate act of defiance against religious repression deserve no less. Such an act will also provide an auspicious start to your government's new Office of Religious Freedom.

We also urge you to raise Canada's human rights concerns in a public forum before Chinese citizens while you are in Beijing as President Obama and former Australian Prime Minister Howard have both done.

And it is essential that in your meeting with President Hu Jintao that you make the strongest possible representations to President Hu over China’s lack of fair judicial process, religious repression and continued human rights abuses against the Tibetan people.
The CTC favours a transparent, principled, and constructive relationship with China that encompasses all facets of our relationship and that has human rights at the core. We believe that a free, prosperous China is in Canada’s interests. But more importantly, it’s in the interests of Tibetans and Chinese citizens alike.