By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, September 10: The Tibetan Women’s Association on Sunday commemorated its 33rd anniversary of reestablishment in exile with the 7th Yongzin Ling Rinpoche gracing the ceremony as Chief Guest.
“TWA have never been associated with cause of any social disorder or any act of that goes against the wishes of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. It is a commendable aspect of this organization,” Ling Rinpoche said, “However, It is part of the history. Now concentrating on today’s situation we must move forward to improve accordingly.”
Ling Rinpoche lauded the programs, trainings and workshops carried out by the organization to groom young educated Tibetan women for future service to the community.
Suggesting that the workshops on education, environment and health should not be just a number in the annual report, Rinpoche said, “It must be done on regular basis as without a constant reminder people tend to forget. Therefore, we must do it regularly while accepting suggestions from Tibetans all over the world.”
Rinchen Khando, one of the founding members of the TWA in exile, said that the Tibetan struggle couldn’t be left only on hopes set on His Holiness the Dalai Lama or wait for the Chinese government to take initiative. “It is our collective responsibility to work towards our common goal and it is time for all the Tibetans, young and old, to stand united,” said Khando.
Founded on March 12, 1959 after the March 10, 1959 uprising in Lhasa, the organization was reestablished on September 10, 1984 in exile to cater to the needs of Tibetan women. However, in recent times the organization has established itself as a ‘socio-political NGO’ engaging in social welfare works.
One of the largest Tibetan NGOs, TWA also presented a four-point appeal to the world leaders, organizations and Tibet support groups urging them to extend their support to pressurize China to resume talks with CTA; to release 11th Panchen Lama; to take immediate action to stop Larung Gar’s demolition.
