Amherst, Massachusetts: The Regional Tibetan Association of Massachusetts (RTAM) on Saturday held a significant gratitude event titled “Thank You, Congressman Jim McGovern,” celebrating Congressman for his steadfast commitment to Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the Tibetan people.
In a stirring address, Congressman McGovern highlighted the enduring spirit and global impact of the Tibetan community. He spoke passionately about the vital themes of human rights, peace, and resilience. “The Tibetan Spirit Represents the Value that Can Change the World,” McGovern declared, reflecting on his experiences with the Tibetan community and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His speech deeply resonated with the audience, which included community leaders, activists, and supporters of the Tibetan cause.
During his remarks, Congressman McGovern discussed the profound lessons of love, respect, and joy he has absorbed from Tibetan culture. He emphasised the importance of these values in offering a stark contrast to the turmoil seen worldwide today, underscoring the necessity of promoting these ideals to counteract the pervasive negativity and violence.
“The world needs a champion like the Tibetan people and the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama more than ever,” stated McGovern, acknowledging the significant influence of Tibetan philosophy on fostering global unity and contentment.
Highlighting his legislative efforts, which were inspired by his interactions with the Tibetan community both within the U.S. and internationally, McGovern reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Tibetan cause in Congress. “This legislation arose from meetings with Tibetans globally. These ideas came from you,” he noted, celebrating the cooperative efforts that have led to substantial policy advancements.
Congressman McGovern concluded with a compelling call to action: “Nothing improves in our community, our country, and the world unless good, like-minded people unite and demand change.”
Other special guests for the event focused on their collective appreciation for Congressman McGovern’s dedication to Tibetan freedom struggle and his broader impact on global human rights advocacy. Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration congratulated Congressman McGovern on receiving the well-deserved honour. In a video message, Sikyong expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Congressman McGovern for his unwavering commitment to the Tibetan cause, acknowledging the personal sacrifices he has made, including facing sanctions, as a consequence of his steadfast support for Tibet.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering congratulating the Congressman Jim McGovern.
Thondup Tsering, Member of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, reflected on Congressman McGovern’s long-standing commitment to human rights and his direct impact on the U.S. foreign policy, especially concerning Tibet, and referred to McGovern as “truly the conscience of the House.” Tsering further highlighted the congressman’s resilience against international pressures, and how despite facing sanctions, Congressman McGovern continues to stand with Tibet, wearing opposition as a badge of honour. “His commitment to justice is unwavering, and his actions inspire us to maintain our fight for freedom and dignity,” noted Tibetan Parliamentarian Thondup.
Namgyal Choedup, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Washington, D.C., commended Congressman McGovern for his compassionate and moral leadership that transcends political divisions, emphasising his pivotal role in advancing the Tibetan cause and supporting human rights on a global scale. Tenchoe Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet, praised Congressman McGovern for his leadership in passing crucial legislation like the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act, which has bolstered international support for Tibet and set a precedent for future U.S. policies supporting Tibet.
Dhardon Sharling, former Member of Tibetan Parliament in Exile, spoke about the historical context of Congressman McGovern’s support, reflecting on a pivotal moment in 2012 when he co-authored a significant letter to the U.S. Secretary of State advocating for Tibetan rights. She underscored how his support has not only persisted but intensified over the years, significantly contributing to the Tibetan cause and reinforcing their collective spirit and resilience.
Tsultrem Kunsang, President of the Regional Tibetan Association of Massachusetts, celebrated the impactful legislative achievements spearheaded by Congressman McGovern, particularly noting his crucial role in the passage of the Resolve Tibet Act. Kunsang highlighted this law as a significant milestone that not only affirms the U.S. commitment to the Tibetan cause but also serves as a bold declaration against misinformation about Tibet’s historical sovereignty.
A highlight of the event was the special ceremonial presentation of a silver sculpture replicating the historic Sino-Tibet Treaty of A.D. 821/823. This pillar, still standing today in front of the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet, symbolises the enduring peace and mutual recognition of sovereignty between Tibet and China.
The Resolve Tibet Act, sponsored by Congressman McGovern, not only recognises the right of the Tibetan people to self-determination under international law but also calls for a meaningful and direct dialogue without any preconditions with His Holiness the Dalai Lama or representatives of the Central Tibetan Administration. Significantly, section 5 of the Act’s Findings challenges the long-standing false narrative propagated by China, stating, ‘The United States Government has never taken the position that Tibet was a part of China since ancient times.’ This is a historic acknowledgment by the U.S. Government, marking a clear departure from past narratives and affirming Tibet’s status as a historically independent nation.
In keeping with the spirit of the Resolve Tibet Act, the pillar not only commemorates Tibet’s historical independence but also underscores its rightful sovereignty, honouring Congressman McGovern’s pivotal role in championing these truths.
The event featured cultural performances by the students and teachers of Thunme Lekshey School, The Tibetan Weekend School managed by RTAM. The gratitude event also served as a reaffirmation of the Tibetan community’s resolve to fight for the rights of the Tibetan people and for the restoration of freedom in Tibet.
The entire event live streamed on Tibet TV can be watched here.
-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Washington DC
