In 1959, the People’s Republic of China invaded Tibet. Every year March 10th marks the anniversary of the uprising of the Tibetan people in response to the occupation. It was at this time the Dalai Lama, spiritual and temporal leader of Tibet was forced into exile in India. Over 100,000 Tibetans followed and every year hundreds of Tibetans continue to risk their lives crossing the Himalayas seeking political, cultural and spiritual freedom.
Tibetans were welcomed and granted refuge status in India. It is here they set up their democratically elected Government in Exile. The Tibet struggle continues based solidly in the tenants of non violence.
A 2008 conference of Tibetan leaders chose to support the Dalai Lama’s Middle Way Approach. Tibetans voted to continue working for the liberation of Tibet through non violent strategies despite the many human rights violations and cultural oppression of Tibetans in Tibet.
Tibetan culture in Tibet is critically threatened. This culture based on loving kindness and compassion survives in exile, though influenced by the culture of the host countries. It is of great benefit to the world that this culture survive.
Support of the Tibetan people and their cultural preservation through programs such as TCEF gives support and hope to the Tibetan people.
TCEF is dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan culture.
© 2011