It is estimated that since 1959, 1.5 million Tibetans have died as a direct result of Chinese incursion into the country.
In the decades following 1959, particularly during the Cultural Revolution, there was wholesale destruction of Tibetan buildings and religious artifacts. All but 12 of more than 6,000 monasteries were destroyed. Many of them were used as target practice by Chinese artillery. A thousand years' worth of priceless Buddhist literature, religious paintings and artifacts were either destroyed or have fetched millions of dollars on the international market in an effort by the Chinese to raise foreign currency and to wipe out Tibet's rich heritage.
In 1995 the Chinese government kidnapped the six-year-old Gendun Chökyi Nyima and his parents, shortly after he had been recognized by the Dalai Lama as the latest reincarnation of Tibet's second most important spiritual leader, the Panchen Lama. In a resolution of July, 1995, the European Parliament called on China to release the family immediately. This family, like many other groups and individuals who have been detained without trial, remains unaccounted for.
Words can never describe the tragedy. It hurts so deep to even think about it. Yet we continue to buy Chinese products, well, I don't.
Have just watched it.
Thinking how everything I am doing today is soooo unimportant, except maybe writing here.
I have in the past written to the Chinese Embassy asking my messages be forwarded, explaining the damage China was/is doing to their own reputation by their actions towards Tibet and Tibetans.
It was however inspiring in parts to see the cultural/spiritual flame re-ignited in Tibetans from watching the Dalai lama's message.
Thank you cat, thank you for reminding me what is important, as sombre as it may be.
PS Have you read the comments under the video ???
Now I have. 😮
A very valid point but gee, I don't think she would have received much compensation nor much popularity.
I also like to think that with so many of the worlds eyes on International events these days, China would not risk further detriment to their reputation.
Besides, I think the Tibetan people feel they have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
