By Choekyi Lhamo
DHARAMSHALA, Oct. 7: The largest pro-Independence group Tibetan Youth Congress on Wednesday celebrated its 50th founding anniversary at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) here. The event was geared to highlight the importance of the grassroots-based organization that is spread across 88 chapters with over 35,000 members that seeks complete independence of Tibet from China.
Incumbent TYC President Gonpo Dhondup thanked all the members of the organization and promised to continue working for the people, “TYC has the potential to challenge CCP and for its sustenance, I urge the Tibetan people for their continuous support in our future endeavours.” The statement of the Central Executive Committee promised to reaffirm their resolve with determination to work for the cause of Tibet.
Former TYC President Tenzin Geyche Tethong commended the organization for its work for the Tibetan people, and commented on the China’s growing repressive policies in Tibet citing the recent reports on Tibetan labour camps, “I do not condemn China just for the sake of it, these are factual reports of human rights abuses from international media exposing the CCP for its illegal activities. It has also always tried to create discord in the exile community as we just witnessed with the case of the spy in New York. Hence, I urge the community to exercise unity amongst ourselves for the cause of Tibet.”
Chief Justice Commissioner Sonam Norbu Dagpo said, “TYC’s commitment for debating ideas with scathing critique without any judgement has always inspired the Tibetan youth. It has undertaken awareness campaigns for Tibetans on democracy, voting, and leadership among others. All the grassroots movements are mostly initiated by TYC across the world, and they were also the first ones who lobbied for Tibet’s political status in India.”
Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE), Pema Jungney pointed out that TYC has been an effective platform for young leadership. “Even though I have not been a member of the TYC but I have always acknowledged its importance in our political sphere,” he said.
CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay and TYC co-founder Tenzin Namgyal Tethong also sent virtual messages congratulating the present members of the organization, referring to personal stories during their involvement.
The TYC founded in 1970 as a grassroots organization is spread worldwide and advocates for complete independence of Tibet’s three traditional provinces of U-Tsang, Do-Toe and Do-med from China. The exile Tibetan government in contrast seeks genuine autonomy within the frame work of the Chinese constitution.
One Response
Congratulations, TYC. Thanks for all your hard work!! Curious, why the Speaker of the House, Pema Jungney, felt the urge to make an unsolicited comment of; “Even though I have not been a member of the TYC….”