UPDATE: Tibetan Australians are urgently raising their voices against the oppressive actions of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in a powerful rally at Parliament House on October 16, 2023. Community leaders mobilized for Tibet Lobby Day, emphasizing their fears for the safety of loved ones in Tibet and calling for the freedom of religion for Tibetans.
During the rally, Yangkyi Sangpo, a Tibetan activist, expressed deep concerns about the ongoing intimidation and repression faced by Tibetans in Australia, stating, “The Tibetan diaspora is constantly intimidated and threatened directly and indirectly by the CCP.” This urgent appeal comes amid accusations against China for severe human rights violations in Tibet, including political imprisonment, torture, and forced relocations.
The emotional stories shared during the rally painted a vivid picture of the hardships faced by Tibetans. Ms. Sangpo, who was born in Tibet and relocated to Australia at the age of 12, highlighted her traumatic experiences growing up under Chinese rule. “I was forced into Chinese culinary boarding school at the age of six. I felt completely disconnected from my Tibetan identity,” she revealed. Her story resonates deeply, reflecting the struggle of many Tibetans who find themselves caught between their heritage and the pressures of a repressive regime.
Another poignant voice at the rally was Shenphen Ringpapontsang, whose father served as the Dalai Lama’s representative. He criticized Beijing’s attempts to dictate the succession of the Dalai Lama, asserting, “In this weird, upside down world, the Chinese Communist Party thinks they have the authority to select the next Dalai Lama, despite demonizing His Holiness for over seven decades.” His call for the Australian government to recognize only a successor appointed according to the wishes of the Dalai Lama echoes the sentiments of many in the Tibetan community.
More than a dozen Tibetans gathered at Parliament House, engaging in song and prayer for the health of the Dalai Lama before meeting with MPs from various political parties. Co-chair of the parliament’s Friends of Tibet, Susan Templeman, emphasized the importance of these discussions, stating, “Australia has made it very clear that the Dalai Lama’s office and Tibetans should be the ones who choose who the next Dalai Lama is.”
The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. As Tibetan Australians rally for their rights and the safety of their families, the call for international recognition of Tibetan autonomy and the right to religious freedom grows louder. With the eyes of the world on them, these activists hope their actions will lead to meaningful change.
As this situation develops, key questions remain: Will the Australian government take further action to support the Tibetan cause? How will China respond to the increasing pressure from the global community?
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue as it unfolds.
