In San Francisco, the annual rally on March 10, commemorating the 66th Tibetan Uprising Day, saw 68-year-old Sumchhung arriving early at City Hall. Joined by hundreds of Tibetans from the Bay Area, he aimed to spotlight the alleged human rights abuses in Tibet, claiming that the oppressive grip of the Chinese government affects countless lives. Having fled Tibet at just three years old, Sumchhung makes the journey from El Sobrante annually, stating, “This is the least I could do for my people who are not free.”
Protesters marched from City Hall to the Chinese consulate, chanting slogans like “No language rights in Tibet” and “Shame on China,” causing traffic delays as they called for awareness. At the consulate, Tenzing Jigme, a member of the Tibetan parliament, highlighted the resilience of exiled Tibetans, declaring, “Our resilience has been our greatest weapon.” This year’s event also reflected on the tragic events of 1959, when Tibetans bravely resisted the Chinese army to defend their independence, resulting in severe repercussions and widespread fatalities.
The Chinese consulate remained silent when contacted for comments, while the Chinese government continues to assert that Tibet is an integral part of China. In response to recent U.S. actions regarding Tibet, the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against external interference, firmly warning that attempts to destabilise Tibet will be futile.
This year’s protest featured diverse voices, including Chinese activist Ginger Duan, who leads the group Chinese Youth Stand for Tibet. She called upon young Chinese activists to confront the Chinese Communist Party for its actions in Tibet, stating, “Tibetans cannot go abroad, they cannot even go to the holy city of Lhasa, because they don’t have the freedom to travel around.” Ugyen Kyab of the Tibetan Association emphasised that the fight for Tibet transcends one-off events, stating, “This is an ongoing movement.”
With over 3,000 Tibetan Americans residing in Northern California, the Tibetan Association of Northern California fosters community initiatives for cultural preservation, including language classes and cultural events. Young protesters, like 16-year-old Tenzin Thinley, expressed their dedication to the cause, as he prioritised attending the rally over his school commitments, motivated by his family’s history of displacement. “My parents told me not to worry about missing class; they said we have to be the ones taking the cause forward, so here I am!” he affirmed.
On March 10, hundreds gathered in San Francisco for the 66th Tibetan Uprising Day, highlighting ongoing human rights issues in Tibet under Chinese rule. Sumchhung, a long-time attendee, expressed commitment to raising awareness. The rally featured diverse speakers including Chinese activists, and underscored the resilience of the Tibetan diaspora as they strive for freedom and cultural preservation, catering to the needs of their community with various initiatives.
The annual protest in San Francisco is a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Tibetans under Chinese rule. Gathering to commemorate the Tibetan Uprising Day, participants share their personal connections to these historical events, calling for human rights and freedom. With continued engagement from both the Tibetan diaspora and growing support from allies, the movement for Tibetan sovereignty remains vibrant and resolute. From young activists to seasoned participants, the collective voice resonates loud and clear, aiming to keep the issue of Tibet alive and relevant in global discourse.
Original Source: localnewsmatters.org
