Tibetan Youth Congress (Centrex) launched the Hunger Strike unto Death in facilitation from Regional Tibetan Youth Congress of New York and New Jersey on April 2nd 2004 at 9:00 a.m. New York time. The General Secretary of Centrex Mr. Tsultrim gave the introductory speech vowed that TYC will not rest until changes in positive attitude happens in Tibet.
The program began with prayers by the monks and the supporters with solemn prayers of success. It was followed by singing of the Tibetan National Anthem and then a minute of silence was observed in remembrance of brave men and women of Tibet who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of Tibet and Tibetans.
TYC President Mr. Kelsang Phuntsok briefed the Hunger strikers. He said that Ms. Dolma Choephel the joint secretary, Mr. Gyatso the Vice President of RTYC in Gangtok and Mr. Sonam Wangdu one of the most active member of RTYC of NY/NJ have served in their best capacity everywhere they went. Ms. Choephel says that it is the right opportunity to sit on the hunger strike. Mr. Gyatso feels that this opportunity will enliven the UN’s passive interest to work for Tibet. Mr. Sonam Wangdu feels that it is an honor to serve the interest of his Country, which reminds him of the sacrifices that his father has made in Tibet.
As a chief guest Ms. Ngawang Sangdrol, a relentless freedom fighter thanked them and prayed for success. She affirmed that their sacrifices would not go in waste. Mr. Kunga Thinley, President of TYC of NY/NJ gave his speech. He urged the Tibetan Community Board members to call upon the Tibetan Public and asked them to work together for the common goal of Tibet. He said that he is confident that TYC will get support in every kind from the Tibetans here in the west.
Ms. Ngawang Sangdrol lit the prayer lamp and then offered a scarf to H.H. The Dalai Lama’s picture followed by the three Hunger Strikers and then the public. With words of encouragements and thanks everyone offered scarves to three of them. They sat down on their mattress and began praying and taking rest.
The Hunger Strike will resume tomorrow for the second day.
