By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, March 12: The largest women’s association of Tibetan diaspora commemorated the 59th Tibetan women’s uprising of Lhasa Tibet, paying tribute to the women martyrs today at martyrs’ pillar near Tsuglagkhang temple here.
TWA on the day called on the Chinese President Xi Jinping to resume talks with envoys of the Dalai Lama; to review the repressive policies in Tibet, which it said are forcing Tibetans to resort to self-immolation protests.
“There are many challenges women face in today’s world. However, with the grace of His Holiness, we are provided equal opportunity in every field. Complementing the opportunity, Tibetan women have grabbed them to excel including the historic Geshema degree,” said Sonam Dolkar, former Principal academician, who attended the event as chief guest.
Founding president of TWA and Director of Tibetan Nuns Project, Rinchen Khando, on the occasion reminded that now is not the time to relax or segregate Tibetan men and women. She said that it is time for Tibetans to carry forward the Tibetan struggle as united.
“Tibetans have been living under Chinese rule since 1959 and as a Tibetan we must remember what was taken away from us and it becomes our responsibility to take what was originally ours,” said Ugen Lhamo, a student of Upper TCV School. Lhamo also urged the international communities to support the Tibetan cause.
The organization, condemning the destruction of Tibetan monastic institution – Larung Gar and Yarchen Gar – called on the UN and the world leaders to take ‘necessary measures’ on the matter.
TWA also condemned China’s interference in the religious tradition of recognizing Tibetan Buddhist Lamas. It said, “Being is a Communist government with no adherence to any religious concept, China has neither the legitimacy nor the credibility in the spiritual matters since it considers religion as poison.”
A procession by Tibetan women from all walks of life took place after the official function.
