BOSTON, MA: In a historic and unprecedented gathering at the Massachusetts State House, U.S. lawmakers, Tibetan leaders, and members of the Governor’s Office came together to honour the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and officially launch the Global Year of Compassion, a worldwide initiative led by the Central Tibetan Administration.
The celebration came just days after His Holiness affirmed the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution, stating that the 15th Dalai Lama will be born in the free world, honouring the heartfelt appeals of Tibetans and global followers. The announcement infused the July 10 event with renewed meaning and urgency—a solemn affirmation of the enduring values His Holiness represents.
Co-hosted by the Tibetan Association of Boston (TAB) and the Regional Tibetan Association of Massachusetts (RTAM), and co-sponsored by Senator Jo Comerford, Representative Lindsay Sabadosa and Representative Mindy Domb, the event marked the first time a public tribute to His Holiness was held in the heart of the Commonwealth’s legislature.
The program featured the reading of official resolutions, powerful speeches from both U.S. and Tibetan leaders. Chief Guests included Congressman Jim McGovern and Kalon Norzin Dolma, Minister of Information and International Relations of the Central Tibetan Administration.
Speakers throughout the event emphasised His Holiness not only as a spiritual icon, but as a moral compass in an increasingly divided world. His teachings on compassion, interdependence, and secular ethics have become, as several speakers noted, a “working model for 21st-century life.” He is, to many, a symbol of clarity, humility, and moral courage.
A highlight of the ceremony was the reading of Governor Maura Healey’s official citation, recognising the 90th birthday of His Holiness and the launch of the Year of Compassion:
“As the global community celebrates a ‘Year of Compassion’ in his honour, we commend his ongoing teaching of karuṇā—compassion—a core value to cultivating peace and happiness. A fierce advocate for human rights and for the most vulnerable people… May he continue to uplift his community and be a symbol and leader of Tibetan identity and culture,” the citation read.
Congressman Jim McGovern, a longtime champion for Tibet, delivered a deeply personal and impassioned speech, recalling decades of connection with His Holiness and the Tibetan people. He highlighted bipartisan progress, such as the Resolve Tibet Act of 2024, and urged renewed dedication to His Holiness’s vision of compassion and justice.
“The Dalai Lama gives us reason to stay hopeful,” McGovern said.
Kalon Norzin Dolma delivered a moving keynote, reflecting on His Holiness’s role as a guiding light for Tibetans and a symbol of hope for the world. She reaffirmed the CTA’s commitment to His Holiness’s four principal commitments: promoting human values, fostering religious harmony, safeguarding Tibetan cultural heritage and environment, and reviving ancient Indian wisdom.
The event included the reading of official resolutions honouring His Holiness’s 90th birthday and the launch of the Year of Compassion. Senator Jo Comerford read the Massachusetts Senate Resolution, while Representative Lindsay Sabadosa presented the House Resolution—both acknowledging His Holiness’s decision to reincarnate and affirming that no entity has the authority to interfere in the sacred Tibetan process of succession.
Video tributes from Senator Edward Markey, Congressman Seth Moulton, and Congresswoman Lori Trahan echoed strong bipartisan support.
“His message of peace and justice continues to inspire hope for millions around the world,” Senator Markey noted.
Other special guests–Thondup Tsering, Member of Tibetan Parliament in Exile, Tsering Dolma, Secretary, Office of Tibet, Washington D.C., and Bhuchung Tsering, International Campaign for Tibet- echoed a shared admiration for His Holiness’s lifelong dedication to nonviolence, compassion, and justice
Tibetan cultural performances by members of TAB and RTAM included traditional dances and songs in celebration of His Holiness’s life’s works, infusing the gathering with vibrant energy and ancestral pride.
Following the formal program, guests were invited to the 4th floor of the State House for the inauguration of a special photo exhibition titled “Life & Legacies of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.” The exhibition, launched by Kalon Norzin Dolma and Parliamentarian Thondup Tsering, featured rarely seen archival images tracing His Holiness’s journey—from a child in Tibet to a global ambassador for peace.
The celebration concluded with a joyful Gorshey, a traditional Tibetan circle dance—symbolising unity, cultural resilience, and compassion in motion.
As Massachusetts raised the banner of compassion, the message from the day was clear: the world needs more of what His Holiness represents.
With the Year of Compassion now officially underway, Tibetan communities across the globe—beginning here in Massachusetts—will carry forward His Holiness’s message through service, environmental stewardship, interfaith harmony, and advocacy for justice.
Compassion must be practised—not merely praised,’ attendees were reminded.
The full event is available to watch on Tibet TV’s live stream. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6i6ocBAaT44&t=4319s
