Tibetan leaders flag concerns over China’s threat to cultural identity

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Call for protection of region’s language, traditions & religious heritage on 66th Democracy Day

McLeodganj, September 2

The 66th anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day was commemorated with a special programme at the Dalai Lama Temple in McLeodganj on Wednesday, with community leaders raising concerns over Chinese policies and stressing the need to protect the region’s language, culture and religious identity.

The event was attended by Penpa Tsering, Prime Minister of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), members of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, ministers and a large number of members of the Tibetan community.

Addressing the gathering, Tsering raised concerns over what he described as policies of the Chinese Communist government, aimed at weakening Tibetan language, cultural traditions, religious practices and identity.

He also expressed concern over an alleged “law to promote ethnic unity and progress”, which came into effect on July 1. Issues, including Tibetan language, cultural integration, the alleged sinicisation of Tibetan Buddhism, surveillance and rights related to regional autonomy were also highlighted during the programme.

Tsering called on Tibetans living across the world to work collectively to preserve their language, culture, traditions and religious heritage.

Meanwhile, Tibetan Parliamentarian Gompo Dhondup said the CTA had progressed towards a democratic system under the leadership, blessings and guidance of the Dalai Lama. “The CTA currently functions on the basis of the three pillars of democracy. The community celebrated the day with joy and enthusiasm to commemorate the achievements of the democratic system,” Dhondup added.

Tibetan schoolchildren presented cultural performances during the event.