By rtycminnesota@yahoo.com
St. Paul, Minnesota – About 400 Tibetans and Tibet supporters packed the Rotunda (the historic chamber where state government is conducted) in the Minnesota State Capitol to commemorate the 47th Tibetan National Uprising Day, against the backdrop of a giant Tibetan flag and a portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Hundreds of delightfully inquisitive local school children on their Friday school tour to the capitol, and other visitors, stopped to take flyers or pose with face-painted protestors.
His Holiness’ statement was read in both Tibetan and English by representatives of the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota followed by the statement from the Kashag.
The president of the Tibetan Youth Congress of Minnesota, Mr. Penpa Kura-Amjee, threw some light on “the darkest chapter in our history”, the Tibetan Uprising day. “When people are oppressed they will rise up against the oppressor,” Penpa remarked, “If Namibia and East Timor can win their independence in this lifetime, why can’t we? We have a great history. We must take pride in our past and we must not forget our patriots who died fighting for us. We must continue our struggle for independence.”
Mr. Jigme Ugen, General Secretary of RTYC, read the Tibetan Youth Congress’ statement.
The vice-president of the Tibetan Women’s Association of Minnesota, Mrs. Tendol Sangmo gave a poignant speech on the situation in Tibet bringing tears to many eyes. She challenged the listeners for further determination, sacrifice and commitment to the Tibetan cause. The Gyuto monks led prayers and Mr. Tashi sang the Mimang Langlu (Anthem of the Uprising).
The strength of the Tibetans and Tibet supporters were dramatically displayed, as demonstrators filled the crowded streets of downtown St. Paul on a “Freedom March” led by the Tibetan Youth Congress of Minnesota. The marchers armed with picket signs and flags were a wide cross-section of the population, with numerous families, seniors, children and several youngsters. After more than an hour’s walk, the marchers returned to the State Capitol for the Tibetan national anthem.
The event was organized by RTYC-MN and supported by TWA and TAFM.
