| 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 |