The last day of the “Free Tibet Action Week” organized by RTYC-Toronto ended with speeches from politicians and Tibetan community leaders all applauding the participants and organizers for initiating and carrying through such an event. The strong Tibetan crowd of about 600 was joined by chief guests, Honourable Peggy Nash, member of Parliament, Cheri Di Novo, member of the Ontario Parliament and Mr. Gord Perks, councillor, Ward 14, (Highpark/Parkdale). All the politicians spoke about how impressed and inspired they were with the efforts of the Tibetan people for their fight for justice in a non-violent manner and they pledged their further support for the Tibetan struggle.
The 13 participants were honoured with Khatas and certificates by RTYC-Toronto, CTAO, TWAO and other Tibetan organizations. Mr. Norbu Tseringla, president of CTAO emphasized how important these kinds of activities are to keep our struggle alive. The TWAO’s general secretary, Ms. Tsewang Lhadon la also expressed her appreciation for the participants and RTYC -Toronto and expressed TWAO’s solidarity with the movement for a “Free Tibet”. SFT -Toronto president, Gelek la expressed his appreciation for the participants and organizers of the event and called for continued efforts from everyone gathered and reminded everyone that together we can make it happen.
Before concluding the “Free Tibet Action Week” and the commencement of the commemoration of the 48th Tibetan Uprising day, the crowed chanted a long live prayer for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Dhuntsik Monlam and the Tibetan national anthem. Ms. Tenzin Dolma, RTYC-Toronto committee secretary, extended her gratitude to all the supporters who had gathered there. She was amazed with the overwhelming support for the event from all sides and thanked everyone on behalf of RTYC for making it a success.
She closed her remarks with a quote from one of the senior participant, who spent the week in front of the Ontario Legislative building despite the freezing weather, “Even though the freedom of Tibet might not be written in your Karma, the dedication and the determination of the younger generations as shown during the “Free Tibet Action Week” keeps her commitment and spirit high”. The crowd filled the front of the Ontario Legislative building with Tibetan flags flying high and proud and the Tibetan national anthem blaring before marching off to the Chinese Consulate.
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