Tibetans and Tibet support groups observed the forty-fifth Tibetan National Uprising Day; March 10th 2004 at Dak hamerjold Plaza at United Nations. Lhadon Tethong, from Students for a Free Tibet and Kunga Thinley, President of Tibetan Youth Congress of New York and New Jersey took charge of the programs.
The event started with Tibetan National Anthem, Sum-Choe Dren-lu and Mimang Langlo. Mr. Dorjee Kunthop from Office of Tibet read His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s statement in Tibetan and Mr. Tsewang Phuntsok read the statement in English. A moment of silence was observed for a minute and then it was followed by chants for a couple of minutes. Prof. Robert Thurman’s statement was read by his son Ganden Thurman. Sharon H. Exec. Director of Human Rights in China gave a strong statement on releases of Wang Youcai and Phontsok Nyidrol saying that release should not indicate freedom in reality. Reed Brody from Human Rights watch gave a brief statement and announced the release of the booklet “Trials of a Tibetan Monk- The case of Tenzin Delek.” Tenzin Bhuti from Tibetan Women’s Association read her statement. Geshe Lobsang Tenpa, one of Tulku Tenzin Delek’s student spoke of his teacher’s genuine work and status in Tibet, which was translated by Ngawang Palden. Statements from Senators and Elie Weisel the noble Peace prize winner were read too. Dharma Bhum concluded the morning session by singing the Rangzen Song.
The procession headed toward the Chinese Consulate via Chinese Mission at 12:30 p.m. About 700 crowd turned out and fully engaged themselves in the demonstration. Lhadon and Kunga Thinley continued with the afternoon introductions of speakers. Karma Khedup from Tibetan Community of NY&NJ and Tseten Lhagyal from USTC read their statement. On behalf of Kalsang Phuntsok Godrukpa, President of TYC Centrex, its statement was read by Sonam Topgyal (Joint Secretary) of RTYC.
Later in the evening, the executive member of RTYC of NY/NJ offered prayers in memory of those who sacrificed their precious lives for the cause of Free Tibet.
