(We tried to deliver this letter by hand with our members to the United Nations located at First Avenue
in Manhattan, New York on April 15, 2010. Rejected and then we distributed in front of the UN building)
April 15, 2010
The Secretary-General
United Nations
New York
Honorable Secretary- General,
We would like to bring it to your attention of
the unfortunate situation of the people still buried alive under
the rubbles, aftermath of the series of massive earthquakes which
struck the Gawa region (Chinese: Yushu) in the eastern Tibet, on
Wednesday, are not getting adequate help and support.
As per information that we received, the death toll seems to be
more than 20,000 (Twenty thousand). The 85 (eighty five) percent
of the buildings collapsed (as per Chinese reports) in the region.
As per Chinese information to the media around the world counts
the death toll only around 500 (five hundred) and 85 percent of
the buildings in the Kyegudo city (Chinese: Yushu) are already collapsed.
The population of the city is 100,000 as per Chinese census.
As per our information, the death toll of one school and a monastery
is even more than 1000.
The Chinese government is sending military as we saw on TVs of the
world, but at the epicenter of the sufferings, you do not see the
reality. As per our information, the Chinese military takes the
picture of helping the victims at some easy photo shoot location.
Most of the other places, the surviving Tibetans are digging out
the buried Tibetans with their bare hands and most of buried places
are not receiving help.
The majority of the surviving victims have so far not received the
survivable help. We have not seen any international community at
the location. And also, we did not see any plane or truck full of
medical supplies and necessary commodity from any country.
We are writing this letter to you for receiving
a humanitarian concern, if you can send an immediate relief (Which
we did not see or hear) to the victims still buried alive and the
surviving people crying for help.
We still hope for some kind of generous efforts
for the benefit of human beings suffering in Tibet from your humanitarian
organization called United Nations.
We are ready to prove our claims. We once again
would like to request for immediate relief for the surviving victims
and the people still buried alive under the rubbles.
Sincerely Yours,
Tsering Dorjee
President,
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk
August 14, 2008
Dear Mrs. Norbu:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the recent violence in Tibet,
I appreciate hearing from you on this important matter.
As you know, the tenuous political relationship that has long existed
between Tibet and China has been a cause of constant tension in
the region. Many Tibetans, including the Dalai Lama, have asserted
that Tibet should be, if not a completely sovereign nation, at least
a largely autonomous region of China. Successive Chinese governments,
meanwhile, have claimed that Tibet is politically and geographically
a part of China.
In March 2008, a number of small, peaceful protests marking the
49th anniversary of an unsuccessful Tibetan uprising escalated into
a violent conflict between the Tibetan protestors and the Peoples'
Republic of China (PRC) authorities. The situation quickly escalated
after arrests were made at the initial protests. The protests grew
violent and quickly spread outside of the Tibetan Autonomous Region
(TAR) into Chinese provinces with large Tibetan populations. These
led to a heavy PRC security force response and presence, sealing
off the TAR to tourists and reporters.
You may be interested to learn that immediately after these riots,
I joined seventeen other senators in sending a letter to Hu Jinato,
President of the PRC urging that China take all necessary steps
to bring about a peaceful end to the violence in Tibet. These steps
should include the immediate removal of restrictions on the free
press, the release of peaceful political prisoners, and respect
the right of freedom to peaceful assembly and expression. This letter
also requested that PRC engage in substantive dialogue with the
Dalai Lama. I recognize that they past six years of dialogue have
been difficult and hope that his involvement will fuel a conciliatory
approach so that the interests of both the Chinese and Tibetan peoples
can be considered.
You may also be interested to learn that in April of 2008, Sen.
Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) introduced a resolution, condemning the
violence in Tibet and calls for restraint by the Government of the
PRC and the people of Tibet. Senate resolution 504 requests that
a dialogue be established between the PRC government and the Dalai
Lama on the relationship between Tibet and China and the status
of those imprisoned for peaceful protest. The Resolution also calls
for medical care to be provided to those wounded in the violence
that followed the protests. It further asks that the PRC respect
the right of the people of Tibet to publicly demonstrate their respect
for the Dalai Lama and to possess his photograph, while further
requesting that the people of Tibet be granted basic human rights.
This resolution was agreed to in the Senate by unanimous consent
on April 9, 2008.
Thank you again for contacting me. If you would like to stay in
touch with me on this and other issues of importance, please visit
my website at http://dodd.senate.gov and subscribe to receive my
regular e-mail issue alerts. Please do not hesitate to contact me
again if I may be of any additional assistance.
Sincerely,
CHRISTOPHER J. DODD
United States Senator
******************************************************************
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
"Freedom First" "No Olympic medal
for China
7th August 2008- A rally of nations currently under the illegal
occupation of China (Tibet, East Turkistan and Inner Mongolia )
was organized by Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, New York in the US capital,
Washington DC on 7th August to coincide with the eve of the opening
ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. Around 250 people walked from
the White House to the Chinese Embassy and staged a protest in front
of the Chinese Embassy.
It was co-sponsored by the:
Asia Democracy Alliance, Overseas Chinese Democracy Coalition, World
Uyghur Congress, Inner Mongolian People's Party, Reporters Without
Borders, China Support Network, Independent Federation of Chinese
Students and Scholars, Freedom First, Olympics Second Coalition
The speakers for the event were :
Mr. Wei Jingsheng, President of the Overseas Chinese Democracy
Mrs . Rebiya Kadeer, President of the World Uyghur Congress
Dr. Wen Yen Chen, Executive Director of Formosan Association of
Public Affairs
Mr. T. Kumar , Director of Amnesty International , Asia Pacific
Ms. Belise Bermudez, DC Associate for Reporters Without Borders
Mr. John Kusumi of China Support Network
Dr. Binh Nguyen, Non-Violent Movement for Democracy in Vietnam
Dawopon Rinchen Tsering, Veteran Freedom Fighter and former President
of Central Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk.
Mrs. Doma Norbu, President of Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, New York
Statements from Congressman McCotter from Michigan and New York
City Council Member Tony Avella in support of the rally was read
out. All the speakers were unanimous in their condemnation of the
atrocities committed by the Communist Chinese government to its
own people, the people of Tibet, East Turkistan and Inner Mongolia.
Mrs. Rebiya Kadder stated " The Tibetan and Ughyur people
are in a similar situation and that unity and support among us was
vital for each others causes"
Mr. Wei Jingsheng stated " Not only is the Communist Chinese
Government committing gross human rights violations on the people
of Tibet, East Turkistan and Inner Mongolia but also that its support
of the dictatorial regimes in Burma, Vietnam and North Korea is
impacting the people in the Asia Pacific regions.
Mrs. Doma Norbu said "One of the biggest and significant effort
made by the Communist Chinese Government, to justify its illegal
occupation of Tibet, East Turkistan and Inner Mongolia was by concocting
its own version of history and trying to sell this to its own people
and to the world at large. We have to take serious note of this
and every action has to be taken to contradict such false propaganda"
The message of the rally was loud and clear with a unified chanting
of " FREE TIBET" "FREE EAST TURKISTAN" "FREE
INNER MONGOLIA"
---------------
STATEMENT FROM Congressman - Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI)
I would first like to extend my appreciation to you
for your kind invitation to attend the "No Olympics Medal for
China: Protesting Chinese Human Rights Record" rally. I regret
I am not able to attend the rally due to a conflict of schedule.
I wish you all success with this important event.
When it comes to dealing with communist China, we have two paths
we can take. We can take the path of detente that says we can manage
the rise of communist China, that we can engage them and barter
with them and engage in structural diplomacy, all the while the
oppression of their own people's God-given rights to life, liberty,
and dignity are repressed, while Tibet suffers under their yoke,
while the Burmese and Sudanese regimes are propped up, and while
they continue their stealth assaults on our national security with
sleeper cells, and I could go on. Or we who profess to be the heirs
of Ronald Reagan can follow the path of President Truman and understand
that you cannot barter with butchers. You cannot constructively
manage evil nor engage it. But what you can do is unleash the liberty
of people yearning to breathe free where and when you can.
Therefore, we must continue to work on behalf of human rights and
democratic change in communist China because communist China is
presenting itself to the world as a rival model of governance to
Western democracies. The fundamental tenet of the communist Chinese
approach is this: Liberty is a danger to their people's prosperity
and security. This is a direct contradiction to what we believe
here in America and in the free world- people's liberty leads to
a nation's stability and prosperity.
Thank you.
-------------------
STATEMENT FROM New York City Council Member - Tony
Avella
As the Chinese Government prepares to open its doors
to the world, we can only hope that this will be an opportunity
for people around the world to focus their attention not only on
the spectacle of the Olympic Games but also on the conduct of the
Chinese government in continuing human rights abuses in Tibet and
against other ethnic and religious minorities within China itself.
In March of this year, I introduced a resolution calling
upon all American businesses and corporations who have their headquarters
in New York City or do business in New York City to review their
financial dealings with China to ensure compliance with international
human rights standards, and to withdraw sponsorship or support of
the 2008 Olympic Games if they are held in China.
Although the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games
are hours away and the opportunity to send a message in this particular
way has passed, we must continue to urge these same corporations
to use their influence as financial partners with China as it continues
to emerge as a world financial power. These American businesses
and corporations are in a position to appeal to the Chinese Government
to comply with international human rights standards and cease the
harsh practices being used against those who seek increased freedom
and independence in Tibet.
As the recent mass demonstrations in Tibet illustrated,
it is clear that the Chinese Government has not changed its policies
toward this country and its people, including systematic human rights
violations, imprisoning and torturing hundreds of thousands of Tibetans,
arbitrary arrests, detaining without public trials, and of denial
of free speech and free press. In addition, as recently as last
week, the Chinese Government continued to prevent access to journalists
covering the Olympic Games to certain websites it deemed detrimental
to "state security" despite promises that it would allow
greater media freedom.
I will continue to support this cause during the remainder
of my term in office and beyond and I thank you for the opportunity
to show my support and to share my thoughts with you.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
http://rtv.rtrlondon.co.uk/2008-08-07/2f71a625.html
MOD-DATE: 08/07/08 20:42:06
AMERICA-AUG 07-USA-OLYMPIC PROTEST
AMERICA: STORY N952
OLYMPIC PROTEST
WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES
AUGUST 7, 2008
NATURAL WITH ENGLISH SPEECH
DURATION:01:13
SOURCE:REUTERS
FEED HISTORY:+ NEW AMERICA (2035GMT)
INTRO: Anti-Chinese protesters opposed to Beijing's rule in Tibet
protest outside Chinese embassy in Washington, DC on eve of Olympics.
TV AND WEB RESTRICTIONS~**NONE**~
Anti-Chinese protesters opposed to Beijing's rule in Tibet protest
outside Chinese embassy in Washington, DC on eve of Olympics.
STORY: Protesters gathered outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington,
DC on Thursday(August 7) as China prepared for one of the most expensive
opening ceremony's in Olympic history on Friday (August 8).
China hopes media attention on issues like its rule of Tibet will
end at 8 p.m. on the eighth day of the eighth month when the Olympic
extravaganza starts before an estimated global audience of one billion.
Doma Norbu, President of Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk said she hoped
the issues would remain prevalent. "We are here to protest
against the atrocities committed by the communist Chinese government
to the people of Tibet, East Turkistan, Inner Mongolia and its own
people," she said.
Small groups of foreign protesters have popped up in Beijing this
week, but have been whisked off quickly by police forming part of
a 100,000-strong security force that China has deployed in the capital
to deter terrorists or demonstrators.
The finer points of global geo-politics are unlikely, however, to
dampen the enthusiasm of many Chinese who have been waiting and
preparing for seven years for the biggest international event they
have staged.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
PRESS RELEASE FOR INDEPENDENCE RALLY (Washington
DC), AUGUST 07, 2008
The first generation and the founding members of Dhokham Chushi
Gangdruk are in the stage of extinction and those who are still
alive are losing their hope to desperately go back home. They had
established this organization in Tibet to resist the Communist China's
forceful invasion in the late 40s and the complete occupation in
1959. Most of the remaining founding members, the Resistance Warriors,
have even abandoned the full independence of Tibet following the
spiritual guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for the last fifty
years in exile.
China has foolishly been for the last many years rejecting the
genuine offer of "Middle Path" approach bestowed by His
Holiness the Dalai Lama to let Tibet remain under the Communist
China's constitution and relinquishing the future Independence of
Tibet. Instead, China have been accusing and vilifying for the last
many years the generous offer of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, which
is the focal point of debate among the younger generation of Tibetans
in exile.
Culture and religious autonomy could be easily assimilated with
the influx of materialistic culture and tradition obviously dominated
in China. The integrity of indigenous culture, tradition or the
spiritual autonomy will be sustained within the sovereignty of one's
own country. The sovereignty of Tibet is historically or logically
remained intact without any foreign occupation since physical existence
of Tibet in this world until the present forceful occupation by
China in 1959.
In a recent article by a CNN reporter, "With what are we going
to fight China? Are we 6 million Tibetans going to confront the
army of 1.2 billion Chinese? How? "
These kinds of questions obviously discourage the unrecognized
refugees of the 21st Century without the dignity of one's own determination
and thus following the path of surrender. But the intelligent freedom
fighters could be easily disillusioned with the method of violent
struggle deviating oneself from Non-violence. The wrong path of
Violence could be very dangerous in this modern technological world
than the ancient world of samurai swords and hunting spears.
It is the duty of every human being to live in peace and let others
live in peace. It is a very unfortunate incident that the spirit
of peace and harmony, the slogan of the Olympic Organization is
diluted and it is now co-operating with the country who abuses Human
Rights, China.
We, the second generation of the Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, strongly
oppose the co-operation of the Olympic Committee with the country
that still abuses the basic human rights of its own citizens and
the Tibetans in particular. We urge the world leaders to investigate
and bring the culprits to justice.
Justice and Peace are the main themes of United Nations Organization,
but it has remained silent under the influence of intimidation of
China's power in the Security Council. Many resolutions had passed
earlier about the occupation of Tibet but without any practical
implementation of them. Frustration has limitation. Truthful action
can bring Peace and Harmony in the world.
We sincerely appreciate those who kindly support us and lead us
in the path of Truth.
FREE TIBET.
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk.
New York
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Press Release - "FREEDOM FIRST" - " NO OLYMPICS
MEDAL FOR CHINA"
7th August 2008
The Olympics is intended to be a celebration of the human spirit
but the spirit of the Tibetan, Uyghur, Inner Mongolian and Chinese
people are being crushed under the weight of an oppressive regime.
As the opening ceremony of the Olympics are underway harsh measures
are currently being implemented in Tibet, Xinjiang Inner Mongolia
and China to intimidate the people and prevent any further signs
of dissent. Thousands of people are still missing or in detention,
and a climate of fear prevails. While Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner
Mongolia are in theory open to foreign visitors and journalists,
in practice, only a government-approved few are permitted.
When Beijing won the rights to host the 2008 Olympics in 2001, the
Chinese government made a promise to the International Olympic Committee
and the international community to concretely improve human rights.
But those promises have for the most part been empty.
Amnesty International in its 8th July 2008 report states "In
fact, the crackdown on human rights defenders, journalists and lawyers
has intensified because Beijing is hosting the Olympics. The authorities
have stepped up repression of dissident voices in their efforts
to present an image of "stability" and "harmony"
to the outside world. This has resulted in the detention and imprisonment
of those who wish to draw attention to the other side of the picture,
which includes human rights violations perpetrated in preparation
for the Games.
We are counting on President Bush and other world leaders to make
clear while in Beijing that token gestures from the Chinese government
are not enough to silence international concern for these oppressed
people. "The Chinese government's policies in these areas will
continue to impact China's image abroad, for good or ill, long after
the Olympics spotlight dims.
In light of this grim situation, we request that:
1. The Chinese government stop its crackdown on innocent people
in the guise of Olympic security.
2. The Chinese authorities should account for those who remain
in detention and that they will be accorded due process in accordance
with international legal standards.
3. Journalists, Representatives from the United Nations and Aid
agencies should be provided with free access throughout Tibet, Xinjiang
and Inner Mongolia.
4. President Bush and all world leaders attending the Olympics
should request permission to travel to Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner
Mongolia. Such a visit would demonstrate their genuine concern in
resolving the issue through a meaningful and lasting process.
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, Asia Democracy Alliance, Overseas
Chinese Democracy Coalition, World Uyghur Congress, Inner Mongolian
People's Party, Reporters Without Borders, China Support Network,
Independent Federation of Chinese Students and Scholars, Freedom
First, Olympics Second Coalition
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
RANGZEN RALLY
- A Rally of Nations currently under the illegal occupation of Communist
China- 7th August 2008
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, New York is organizing a protest rally
outside the Chinese Embassy in Washington DC on the 7th August to
coincide with the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.
As we all know that China was awarded the Olympics despite its
poor human rights record. Since then the human rights of the nations
(Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia) currently under the illegal
occupation of Communist China has only worsened. Freedom loving
citizens have been killed or arbitrarily arrested with no legal
representation. Media has been curtailed and a reign of terror is
being enforced.
We ask you all to join us as at the rally and to condemn the actions
of the Chinese government and to support the rights of the people
currently under the illegal occupation of China, to decide their
own political future for a free and independent nation.
Details :
Bus will leave from Union Square (14th street), New York at 6.30
AM on 7th August.
Will return from DC at 5.00 PM
Contact:
Cheden Lhaga : 718-316-5302
Lodoe Shara: 212-2036687
Dutak Nima: 917-365-3945
Email : contact@chushigangdruk.org
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Resolution passed during the 50th Anniversary
of Chushi Gangdruk
1.The founding fathers and veterans of Chushi Gangdruk
sacrificed their lives for His Holiness The Dalai Lama, so will
we continue with their work of ensuring that the institution of
the Dalai Lama is respected and preserved.
2. The Tibetan Government in Exile (TGIE) is the Government of
the Tibetan people and it is the duty of all our members to work
towards ensuring that our government is given due recognition and
respect in the world political arena. Recognition of the TGIE is
vital for Tibet's political future.
3. To work towards the goal of independence for Tibet with all
like minded organizations, lending our support in every capacity.
4. To be involved in activities that will bring more awareness
about the Tibetan situation worldwide.
5. To initiate support from international organizations towards
the Tibetan cause.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
50 years of Chushi Gangdruk Commemorated in New
York City
Phayul[Tuesday, July 01, 2008 10:07]
By Tenzin Choephel
New York City, June 28 - Chushi Gangdruk, the first Tibetan organized
voluntary resistance force to fight Communist China's occupation
of Tibet commemorated its 50th anniversary at a function organized
by the Dokham Chushi Gangdruk, New York at Club Sanm Hall, Astoria,
New York City today where some of the founding members were honored.
Chushi Gangdruk was the first organized resistance movement inside
Tibet against the Communist Chinese forces. It was formally established
on June 16 1958 and was responsible for providing safe passage to
His Holiness the Dalai Lama into India in 1959. They regrouped later
in Mustang Nepal, established a military base with American support
and waged a guerrilla war against Chinese forces for 13 years but
ultimately had to disband. However, the legacy of the organization
has now been passed on to younger generations who continue to struggle
and do their part in the Tibetan cause.
Some of the surviving founding members of the organization were
present at today's function to talk to the younger generation about
the history and legacy of the organization. Other non Tibetan attending
speakers were Wei Jinsheng, Chairman, Overseas Chinese Democracy
Coalition, Ms. Rayilaa, daughter of President of Uighur American
Association, Dr. Wen Yen Chen, Executive Director, Formosa Association
for Public Affairs and Temtsiltu Shobtsood, Chairman, Inner Mongolia
People's Party.
Drawopon Rinchen Tsering, one of the first founding members and
former President of the organization was first to speak about the
formation and history of Chushi Gangdruk under the leadership of
Andruk Gonpo Tashi at Drukuthang, Lhoka, Tibet.
He said, "Chushi Gangdruk was formed for the protection of
sovereignty and religion of Tibet."
Kongpo Thubten Dhargey, former Executive of Dokham Chushi Gangdruk
speaking next said that he feels proud to see the younger generation
take more involvement in the Tibetan issue. He also said, "It
depends on Tibetans whether they want independence or not; all people
of three regions of Tibet should be united".
Other speakers Juchen Thubten Namgyal, Pema Chonjor, Kelsang Gyatotsang
and Sonam Wangdu expressed similar views on Tibetan unity at this
hour. Other non Tibetan speakers representing their nationalities
also spoke strongly on their opposition to the Chinese Government
and support for the independence of Tibet, East Turkistan (Xinjiang),
Inner Mongolia and Taiwan.
Jamyang Norbu, celebrated Tibetan writer also spoke on the occasion
and said, "We should remember all the great people who have
given up their lives for Tibet; Andruk Gonpo Tashi was a genius,
we should think like him and adopt his strategies".
The day concluded with awarding of the honor plague by President
of Dokham Chushi Gandruk, New York , Doma Norbu to three surviving
members Gyatso Kelsang, Kongpo Thubten Dhargey and Drawopon Rinchen
Tsering and late founding President Andruk Gonpo Tashi was honored
posthumously and received by his son Drakpa. Later in the evening
a young Tibetan artist Namgya Yeshi launched his new album '6 Million'
and also presented some of his Tibetan rap full with heavy political
undertones.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
http://www.allreelnews.com/international.html
TIBETANS COMMEMORATE 100 DAYS OF PROTEST
June 17, 2008, New York City: It is a testament to the resilience
and persistence of the Tibetan people that every day since March,
they have been protesting human rights abuses -- in Tibet, where
such protest and even a call for freedom has lethal consequences,
and around the world where they have been joined by supporters who
echo their cries for freedom. Tibetan activists say the protests
will continue long after the Olympics in China, until there is change.
In New York City, across from the Chinese embassy, alongside the
Hudson, every day, all day, the colorful red, yellow, white and
blue Tibetan flags have waved and the loud and vigorous chanting
has continued in defiance of the Chinese government. Even though
the Olympic torch passed through Tibet, even though the Olympics
will take place in China this summer, the Tibetans will not be deterred.
They will continue to protest human rights abuses and continue to
criticize the Chinese government, whose inhumane policies extend
not only to China and Tibet, but to Burma, Sudan, Nepal and other
areas of the world.
On Tuesday, June 17, members of organizations like the Tibet Youth
Congress, Students for a Free Tibet, Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk and
their friends rallied at their standard post across from the Chinese
embassy, then marched to the United Nations, then to the Chinese
Mission on E. 34th Street. The pleas of the Tibetans remain strong
and firm:"China, get out of Tibet." "Free Tibet now."
"No freedom, no Olympics." "Allow media into Tibet."
These are the sentiments of Tibetans in exile and their supporters
in America and around the world. They have not changed and they
are gathering momentum as August, the time of the Olympics in China,
approaches.
The Chinese government is at the same time intensifying its propaganda,
say Tibetan activists like Maura Moynihan, who said she has been
supporting the cause of Tibet for 35 years. Doma Norbu, leader of
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, a New York-based Tibetan group, explained
that "China has a very multi-layered, complex approach in Tibet,
making sure that Westerners see only one reality, the reality that
they want everyone to see." While buildings go up and economically
things improve, the truth is, said Norbu, that the opportunities
that the Chinese government extends to Tibetans are superficial.
"They build schools in villages, then expect the poor villagers
to pay to attend. Only a few can go. Most people cannot afford their
education." Visitors may be fooled into thinking that all is
well, when in fact it is not, she said.
Norbu and others who have communicated with friends and family
in Tibet affirm that the situation remains tense. "The Chinese
military invade homes at all hours," said one Tibetan activist
and leader. People are still being persecuted and detained.
"Monks cannot return to their monasteries unless they denounce
the Dalai Lama [their spiritual leader in exile]," he said.
Despite almost 50 years of persecution and oppression by the Chinese
government, the Tibetans continue to move forward with a hopeful
spirit and agenda. One activist urged media to refuse to cover the
Olympic Games until media is allowed into Tibet. Petitions continue
to circulate via the Internet, asking people to support the cause,
to sign in favor of boycotting the Olympics, to demand accountability
from the Chinese.
Recently, the Chinese government opened doors to media from Hong
Kong and Taiwan into Tibet. All other media is still being denied
access to the region.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Subject: Correspondence From Senator Lieberman Date: Tue, April
22, 2008 9:16 am To: dnorbu@chushigangdruk.org
April 22, 2008
Dear Mrs. Norbu:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the recent violent crackdown
against Tibetan protestors by the Chinese government.
In March 2008, Buddhist monks and other Tibetan civilians began
demonstrations in Lhasa against the Chinese government, which has
restricted the rights of Tibetans to practice their religion since
invading and seizing control of this territory in 1949. In response
to these demonstrations, the Chinese government initiated a violent
crackdown, resulting in dozens of fatalities and the arrest of more
than 1,000 protesters. It also severely restricted journalists'
and
diplomats' access to the region.
Some have suggested that the United States should boycott the upcoming
Olympic games in Beijing in response to the crackdown in Tibet.
In the absence of strong consensus among our allies around the world
on this matter, however, we should be extremely cautious before
taking any unilateral action.
At the same time, I strongly believe that every responsible nation
has a duty to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Chinese
government that this violent crackdown is unacceptable. China's
rulers must realize that their country will not achieve true greatness
as a global power until it is governed by the rule of law, with
protections for ethnic minorities such as the Tibetans, and respect
for the fundamental human rights and liberties that are the entitlement
of all mankind.
For this reason, on April 9, 2008, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed
a resolution that I proudly cosponsored (S.Res. 504), which condemns
the recent violence in Tibet. This resolution calls on the Chinese
government to allow international journalists free access to China
and for the government to begin a peaceful dialogue with the Dalai
Lama to resolve remaining issues surrounding the religious and cultural
autonomy for Tibet within China. This resolution also calls on the
U.S. State Department to fully implement the Tibetan Policy Act
of 2002 (P.L.107-228), including the creation of an American office
in Lhasa to monitor political developments and to provide citizen
services during emergencies in Tibet.
Thank you again for sharing your views and concerns with me. I hope
you will continue to visit my web site at http://lieberman.senate.gov
<http://lieberman.senate.gov/> for updated
news about my work on behalf of Connecticut and the nation. Please
contact me if you have any additional questions or comments about
our work in Congress.
Sincerely,
JosephI. Lieberman
UNITED STATES SENATOR
JIL:kmo
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
APPEAL
LETTER SENT TO ALL 192 UNITED NATIONS MEMBER STATES
TIBET
- AN URGENT APPEAL TO THE UNITED NATIONS
Since the forceful
occupation of Tibet in 1949, The People's Republic
of China has violated every article of the "Universal Declaration
of Human
Rights". The United Nations has stood as a silent spectator
to all the atrocities and allowed China to blatantly violate the
very principles that the Declaration stands for. Even as the events
in Tibet unfold right now, the United Nations still maintains its
silence.
Though long overdue,
the time has come for the United Nations to open its eyes and take
action by immediately sending a fact finding mission into Tibet
with full media coverage. Through the eviction of tourists and journalists,
China has completely sealed off Tibet from the rest of the world.
By controlling the media, China now has free control over an unmonitored
and brutal crackdown on the recent demonstrators demanding their
freedom and independence of Tibet. A team of observers should be
sent to Tibet immediately to oversee the so called 'trial process'
of those demonstrators who have been arrested and ensure their unconditional
release. (Preamble to the Declaration of Human Rights, Paragraph
3 states: "Whereas it is essential if a man is not to be compelled
to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny
and oppression, that human rights should be protected by the rule
of law).
The Secretary-General
Ban Ki-moon in his speech of 10th December 2007 on the Human Rights
Day stated that: "it is our duty to ensure that these rights
are a living reality-that they are known, understood and enjoyed
by everyone, everywhere. It is often those who most need their human
rights protected, who also need to be informed that the Declaration
exists and that it exists for them".
On the 3rd March
2008, the Secretary General remarked to the opening session of the
Human Rights council in Geneva that: "You must respond
to crises as they build up or unfold and address situations of concerns
that are neglected or forgotten by the international community".
Sadly, the United
Nations has done nothing so far to ensure that these rights are
a living reality in Tibet today. We are responding to his remarks
requesting him to address the situation in Tibet urgently as the
crisis worsens.
Appeal To The Member
States Of The United Nations
We are requesting
you to exert your privilege as member states to the United Nations
despite the veto power of China, to take urgent action as the human
rights of our brothers and sisters in Tibet are being severely violated.
Only the solidarity of the member states who believe in the true
meaning of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights can bring justice
to the people of Tibet.
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk
New York
______________________________________________________________________________________________
Statement at the Press conference on "The
Olympics and Human Rights in China" in the US Capital Building,
HC-5 on 9th April 2008
Since the forceful occupation of Tibet by Communist
China in 1949, the Chinese authorities have unleashed their reign
of terror in order to suppress the national and cultural identity
of the Tibetan people. The recent uprisings by Tibetans inside all
the three provinces of Tibet (Amdo,Kham & Utsang) are a reminder
of the sufferings of the Tibetan people under the illegal Chinese
occupation. This time, the world has chosen to hear them.
The first uprisings began in Kham or Eastern Tibet
in 1952 and lasted for a decade. These led to the formation of the
first resistance movement inside Tibet known as the Chushi Gangdruk
under the leadership of Andrug Gompo Tashi. As many of you may know
that the CIA lent its support to the Chushi Gangdruk.
Since March 10, 1959 known now as Tibet's Uprising Day, the people
of Tibet have put their lives in danger to be heard - in 1987 and
1989 monks and nuns of Lhasa were at the forefront of peaceful demonstrations.
Many of them are still in Chinese prisons.
The Olympic Games being held in China, has put the
region under an international spotlight. This certainly is an opportune
time for the world to recognize the tragedy of the Tibetan people
and to lend its support.
Apart from being a sporting event, the Olympics stands
for the promotion of human dignity and world peace. By putting athletes
in a common platform, the Olympics signify unity, inclusiveness
and equality among all human beings. Sadly, China has not been able
to fulfill any of these ideals.
Since the 10th of March this year, there have been
spontaneous protests and brave expressions of frustration against
the Chinese occupation by the Tibetans living in Tibet. These protests
have been dealt severely by the Chinese administration. It is estimated
that over 150 Tibetans have been killed so far and over two thousand
have been arrested. The uprisings in Tibet started off as peaceful
protests by monks. There is evidence that the Chinese authorities
instigated and abetted the surge of violence that followed. For
example, as reported by the Epoch Times of 25th march 2008 Chinese
policemen dressed as ethnic Tibetans brandishing swords with the
intention of inciting protestors. Photographs of these protestors
were then used by the Chinese authorities to show the outside world
that these were solely violent acts directed against the Han Chinese
living in Tibet.
By evicting journalists and tourists, China has completely
sealed off Tibet from the rest of the world. Unmonitored, China
is free to exercise brutal punishment on those detained.
As a face saving measure, China invited a few select
journalists into Tibet to show the world that the situation in Tibet
was back to normal and under control. However, a group of monks
bravely interrupted their carefully monitored tour, refuting the
claims of the Chinese government. The situation in Tibet today is
far more horrific than the Chinese government want the world to
believe. Even as we talk today, Tibetans in Tibet are still being
terrorized and persecuted.
The situation in Tibet is eerily similar today to
that of the 1936 Summer Olympics, when Hitler's Nazi dictatorship
camouflaged its anti-Semitic agenda by exploiting the Games to dazzle
the world and create an image of a peaceful and tolerant Germany.
China's pose of a peaceful Olympics comes at a great cost. Tibetans
are severely persecuted in their own homeland. Carrying the Olympic
torch through Tibet is a travesty and will serve to escalate the
current tension, and give the Chinese authorities an excuse to further
continue their violent clamp down.
We appeal to all democratic nations and the media
to take a proactive stance in uncovering the true situation in Tibet.
We also urge the democratic nations and the media to continue its
vigil inside Tibet even after the Olympics, as this would be the
period when the Chinese authorities would unleash its harshest treatment
to those Tibetans who took the courage to speak about their freedom.
H.H. The Dalai Lama has said,
"I have said it from the beginning that the Tibetans in Tibet
have the right to make the final decision for the future of Tibet."
We, the Tibetans outside Tibet hear our brothers and sisters inside
Tibet - loud and clear.
We hope that the world too can hear their cries.
"FREE TIBET"
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
DHOKHAM CHUSHI GANGDRUK
Actualité-News
International Conference of Chushi Gangdruk
NEW YORK, DECEMBER 23, 2006
Resolution
The New York-based Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk Inc. convened its 1st
international conference in New York City for two days, from December
23rd to 24th 2006. The conference passed the following resolution
to restore independence for Tibetan people and emancipate them from
the subjugation of Chinese Communist colonization:
1. Tibet truly enjoyed independence, in the full meaning of the
word. This was a fact clearly noted in the governmental and legal
documents of Tibet, India and China. The Chinese Communist, however,
invaded and forcefully occupied Tibet and made it her colony. Tibetans
living in Tibet are subjected to ceaseless sufferings, deprivation
of their fundamental human rights, and suppression. The Tibetan
religious and cultural traditions are being obliterated. China has
launched a campaign that poses a great threat to the existence of
the Tibetan nation. Thus, no human being should ignore the Tibetan
tragedy. We appeal to this great nation, the United States of America,
and other peace- and freedom- loving nations of the world to heed
to the tragic sufferings of the Tibetan people.
The aims and objectives of Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, the Volunteer
Defender, is to dedicate our lives and possessions to the cause
of Tibetan independence. In the future too, there is no change as
far as our original aims and objectives are concerned. We shall
be ready to embark upon any appropriate actions for the independence
of Tibet. The struggle may take many generations to come.
2. As the fundamental requirement for regaining Tibetan independence
, it is important to consider ancient Tibetan history, culture,
tradition, and the geographical status of the three Tibetan provinces,
whose populations constitute the six million Tibetans, contemporary
to Domtonpa Gyalwi Jungney. We, the members of Chushi Gangdruk,
have to spearhead the formation of a Tibetan society based on genuine
understanding, unity, confidence in each other, flawless cooperation,
and commonality of political goals. As a Tibetan saying goes, "Pointing
bonnets together when an enemy attacks, sharing good fortune together".
In addition, these are also our principles not to mislead ourselves,
not to create distance between our government and the Tibetan people,
and exert every effort towards genuine understanding and support
for each other.
We will not hesitate to oppose those who act against Tibetan interests
and wishes by collaborating with Tibet's enemies, who wish to appease
Tibet's enemies for personal gains or to join hands sharing benefits,
and who try to undermine Tibetan unity and resolve.
No matter where Tibetans may be in the world, we are separated
from our Fatherland: remember all our brothers and sisters. It is
of paramount importance to strengthen our resolve, to invigorate
our spirit, and to unite and fight for our rights. Educating our
younger generation is crucial, and every Tibetan must bear this
responsibility.
3. Since the introduction of democracy by His Holiness, the Dalai
Lama, and for a time since then, the Tibetan people enjoyed full
democratic rights by electing our government through direct vote.
However, Tibet is a spiritual nation with an unshakable faith in
Buddhism. Moreover, Buddha most remarkably predicted Tibet to be
the protectorate of Chenrezig, the national deity of Tibet, and
Chenrezig, Himself, promised to lead and protect Tibet. We, therefore,
cannot be without His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. As we whole heartedly
pray for His long life and success in accomplishing all His aspirations,
we request Him to emerge from semi-retirement and not to assume
Tibetans being able to manage our affairs democratically.
4. If Sino-Tibetan dialogue is to be continued, neither side should
come forward with unreasonable preconditions before a meeting takes
place. Whether or not China can be influenced to accept our wishes
by putting forward positive proposals, or whether the Tibetans will
be given the opportunity to refuse or accept the China's proposals,
the Tibetan delegation should, not agree to even include into the
discussions the integrity of the three Tibetan provinces or partitioning
of Tibet - put forward in any way whatsoever. Such conditions produce
more harm than good. We, therefore, can not accept such a Tibetan
stance.
5. Since 1957, Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, the Volunteer Defenders,
undertook many political activities, in direct contact with the
U.S. Government. As a result, there are about 14,000 Tibetans from
the region of Kham who, in exile, are suffering as a result of losing
their great opportunity to accomplish their mission. It is, therefore,
our goal, to strive our best efforts to bring these Khampa Tibetans
to America.
6. The 1st International conference of Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk
was attended by the former Prime Minister and the former Security
Minister of the Government of Tibet in Exile, Messrs. Thubten N.
Juchen and Pema Chojor, respectively, the Chairman and founder of
China Democracy, Mr. Wei Jingsheng, and the Chairman of the China
Democracy Party World Union, Mr. Wang Jun, along with many members.
They exchanged viewpoints and discussed each others needs and wishes.
They fully agreed to maintain contact and provide assistance for
their mutual benefit and to accomplish their goals.
7. It was agreed to hold the next international conferences of
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk, first, in India and then in Europe. It
was recognized that, fundamentally, human beings, despite race,
creed, country of origin, or nationality, share common feelings
of pleasure, sorrow, and aspirations for liberty and freedom. However,
the Tibetans have been suffering from China's brutal domination
and denial of fundamental human rights. The meeting made special
wishes and prayers for the dawning of rays of liberty and freedom
for Tibetans who are under the yoke of subjugation by the ruthless
tyranny of China's Communist government, as well as for all others
longing for liberty and freedom.
New York, 23 December, 2006
Dhokham Chushi Gangdruk
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