United State: On the evening of 14th December,Following his arrival, Sikyong convened a meeting with the members of the Tibetan Association, during which he underscored the critical importance of household listing data. Given that New York and New Jersey host one of the largest Tibetan diasporas in North America, Sikyong highlighted the value of conducting household listings block by block or building by building as an efficient and systematic method for accurately documenting the number of Tibetans residing in the region.
The following morning, Sikyong addressed a large gathering of Tibetans during a public talk. He was joined by Representative Namgyal Choedup of the Office of Tibet, Washington, D.C. The event was also attended by several distinguished individuals, including Manuel Castro (Commissioner for the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs), Chokhor Rinpoche (Head of the Sera Jey Buddhist Cultural Center in New York), Thomas DiNapoli (New York State Comptroller), and Xia Ming (Professor at City University of New York). Following the public talk, Sikyong conducted a special session with Tibetan youth. During this interactive session, he provided a comprehensive overview of Tibet’s history, the ecological and geopolitical significance of the Tibetan plateau, and the administrative structure of the CTA. Sikyong also encouraged the youth to actively participate in the Lobby Day initiative organised by the Office of Tibet, Washington, D.C. He emphasised the importance of acquiring a strong foundational understanding of Tibetan issues prior to engaging in lobbying efforts. In the evening, the Tibetan Association hosted a fundraising gala event, where Sikyong and Representative Namgyal Choedup were invited as the chief guests.
On the morning of 16th December, Sikyong participated in an interview with Radio Free Asia over breakfast. Following the interview, he departed for Colorado. Sikyong Penpa Tsering was warmly received by members of the Tibetan Association of Colorado holding welcome banners at the airport. From there, Sikyong proceeded to the Tibetan Community Hall, where he inaugurated the newly established book corner cum library by ceremonially cutting the ribbon.
Following the inauguration, Sikyong addressed the Tibetan community, delivering remarks that underscored key issues concerning the Tibetan cause. The younger generation of Tibetans in Colorado demonstrated a keen interest in Sikyong’s presentation, engaging in a dynamic, hour long Q&A session. Questions were focused on the current situation inside Tibet, the long-term vision of the Central Tibetan Administration, and the potential for funding support from the Appropriations Committee under the new U.S. administration. Sikyong also emphasised the significance of unity within the Tibetan community and reiterated that the younger generation represents the foundation and future of the Tibetan cause.
On the morning of 17 December, Sikyong then departed for the next destination of his official U.S. tour: Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Tibetan Community of NY & NJ welcoming Sikyong.
A group of Tibetan Community of NY & NJ in traditional attire receiving Sikyong.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering during the meeting with executive members of Tibetan Association of NY & NJ.
Sikyong addressing a group of Tibetan youngsters from NY and NJ.
Tibetan Community of NY & NJ with Sikyong.
During the fund raising gala dinner in New York.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering with members of NY and NJ Tibetan Association.
Tibetans receiving Sikyong at Denver Airport in Colorado.
Members of Tibetan community in Colorado.
Sikyong addressing a group of Tibetan youths in Colorado.
An attendee making her queries following Sikyong’s address.
