In front Of the Chinese Embassy, DC

March 10, 2022

Dear brothers and sisters, dear friends,

Today we are gathered here in front of the Chinese Embassy to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising that occurred on March 10, 1959, when the brave Tibetan people stood up to the horrific and unjust occupation of their land by the Chinese Communist Party.

Dr. Yang Jianli speaks at the Rally Commemorating the 63rd Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising

The dramatic situation in Ukraine has reminded the international community, once again, of the consequences of not adequately standing in solidarity with those seeking freedom against those who would crush freedom-loving peoples and stand in the way of the global march towards democracy.

As we pray for and support the brave Ukrainian people, our hearts also go to our Tibetan brothers and sisters. As a Chinese man who has suffered in Chinese Communist prisons for simply wanting his own nation to be free, it is with personal solidarity that I join with you in standing up for the people of Tibet and reminding the world that the battle for a free Tibet, led by the Dalai Lama and many of you here today, is still in front of us.

China’s 63-year-long occupation of Tibet has not diminished the determination of the Tibetan people to fight for their freedom; has not dampened their spirit; has not decreased their tenacity and bravery; and has not diluted the reverence and loyalty the Tibetan people have for the Dalai Lama and the values that he represents. This is a strong message to the Chinese government, to world leaders, and, indeed, to every human being on earth.

As we observe Tibetan Uprising Day, I stand with you in solidarity with the people of Tibet in their struggle for freedom, justice and equality. I stand with you in demanding that the international community and the free world summon the same fervor with which they are demanding freedom for Ukraine, and immediately demand that the Chinese Communist Party begin negotiations with the Dalai Lama to restore the freedom of Tibet!

Free Tibet!