Sikyong Penpa Tsering Successfully Concludes Engagements in Santa Fe, Salt Lake City and Portland During the U.S. Tour

United State: Continuing his official U.S. tour, Sikyong Penpa Tsering visited Santa Fe, New Mexico; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Portland, Oregon. Despite his demanding schedule, Sikyong stayed only one evening in each city, underscoring his commitment to engaging with Tibetan communities and youth across the region. At each location, Sikyong stayed for only one evening, underscoring his commitment to connecting with the Tibetan communities in person and fostering engagement with Tibetan youth, despite his demanding schedule.

On 17 December (MST), Sikyong arrived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he addressed the local Tibetan community. The discussion covered various topics, including the Middle Way Approach and differing perspectives among those advocating for complete independence.

In response, Sikyong emphasised the need for unity, stating, “Arguing amongst ourselves won’t do any good. If debating until our mouths froth and our throats go dry could bring a positive result for the Tibetan cause, then by all means, let’s do it. But that is not the case. Therefore, we must work together for the Tibetan cause.”

Following a successful engagement with the Tibetan community in Santa Fe, Sikyong Penpa Tsering departed for Salt Lake City, Utah, on 18 December (MST). Upon arrival, Sikyong participated in two distinct sessions held at the Utah Tibetan Community Hall. The first session was an interactive session with Tibetan youth, followed by Sikyong addressing the members of the Tibetan Community of Utah. The session was attended by the presence of Gomo Tulku, Seymo Khando Chagzoetsang (the niece of His Holiness the Dalai Lama), and Pema Chagzoetsang (former member of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile). During his address to the youth, Sikyong encouraged active participation in the Lobby Day initiative and recommended two significant books: Tibet Brief 2020 and Professor Lau’s book on Tibet.

The following morning, on 19 December (PST), Sikyong arrived in Portland. In the evening, accompanied by Representative Namgyal Choedup, Sikyong circumambulated the Jangchup Choeten (Stupa) before proceeding to the community hall, where he delivered an address to the local Tibetan residents. Sikyong visited the Sunday School classrooms and subsequently conferred the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award to several Tibetan youths. This award, established by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation in 2003, recognises individuals for outstanding volunteer contributions.

Following his successful public address and interactive session in Portland, Sikyong departed for Seattle, Washington, on 20 December (PST).

Welcomed by Santa Fe Tibetan Community at Airport