Coordinated by the Regional Tibetan Women’s Association of New York and New Jersey (RTWA, NY & NJ), the Tibetans for the second year in a row participated in the 19th Annual International Cultures Parade which was held on September 12, 2004. The parade in large is organized and sponsored by the International Immigrants Foundation, A Non – Governmental Organization at the United Nations.
More than two hundred Tibetans dressed in traditional clothes carrying Tibetan and American flags marched the streets of Madison Avenue. The Tibetans were displaying their culture not only to thousands of American spectators but also to fellow immigrants from all over the world as they were marching shoulder to shoulder in their colorful national costumes. Countries such as Bosnia, Croatia, South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, India, Bolivia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Haiti, Greece, Poland, Spain, Taiwan and many more showcased their culture along with the Tibetans.
The Annual International Cultures Parade is the only Parade in New York City that showcases the multicultural heritage _expression of over 100 communities: giant floats, folkloric dances and music, performers in native costumes, marching bands and contingents, and international pavilions. Thousands of performers participate in this annual salute to the multicultural nature of U.S.A. Unlike many parades, this is “A Trip around the World in One Day.” Each cultural group performs along the Parade’s route to the delight of the spectators. This event is unique and offers every cultural group the opportunity to participate.
The Tibetan procession was lead by a young Tibetan man fully dressed in colorful Tibetan costume carrying a plaque “International Immigrants Foundation presents Tibet” which was given by the organizers. After the plaque was a framed picture of His Holiness the Dalai Lama with a flag of the United States and Tibet along each side. Next came a huge banner which read “Tibet,” followed by few leaders of the Tibetan Community. Marching along with these prominent figures were teens to young adults dressed in Cholka Sum’s outfits. Next in line was a huge National flag of Tibet which required eight people to hold from the sides as they carry; Tibet’s bright flag was a sight to see for anyone! Following the flag was a pick-up truck decorated with Tibetan and American flags carrying the sound system and four Tibetan Buddhist monks. The monks were blowing long horns and between the long horns, traditional Tibetan music was played. Not only were the spectators enticed with the music but so were the Tibetans, who knew each and every word of the songs played and sang loud along with the recording. Hundreds of Tibetans followed the truck and marched with American and Tibetan flags in their hands; some danced and some sang. One thing was for sure, everyone had a marvelous time. One can tell the admiration other nations had for the Tibetans and Tibet as they shouted “We love Tibet” and “We love you Tibetans.”
On the side note, The Regional Tibetan Women’s Association of New York and New Jersey would like to thank all the Tibetans who came with full pride and participated in this very special parade which allows celebrating and displaying of Tibet’s beautiful culture. RTWA would especially like to thank Mr. Wangyal of Cholsum Dance Group for providing the traditional clothes, managing the sound system and also for playing the role of the DJ at the parade. Thanks goes out to Mr. Thinley Namgyal for taking time off from his busy work schedule and helping to rent and drive the pick-up truck during the parade. RTWA of NY and NJ would also like to thank Kusho Gyaltsen la, Geshe Lobsang Tenpa la, Kushoe Sonam Wangdu la and Kushoe Khenrap Tsundue la for taking part in the parade and making it much more special and meaningful with their presence.
