57th, 10th March in Bern

On 10th March Tibetans in exile all over the world commemorated the 57th National Uprising Day against Chinese occupation. Likewise, Tibetan community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein (TCSL) observed the day by gathering in front of the Cathedral at Münsterplatzt in Bern. Around two thousand Tibetans and supporters gathered for the commemoration carrying Tibetan flags and banners.

The rally began with a minute of silence to pay a tribute to all the Tibetan martyrs and singing of national Anthem led by the Folklore Ensemble of TCSL, followed by the official addresses from the President of TCSL Mr. Tenzin Nyinbu. He also read out the Kashag’s statement for the day.

After the failed National Uprising on 10 March 1959, over 1.2 million Tibetans lost their lives under Chinese rule in Tibet. Chinese government policies of systematic cultural genocide, deprivation of religious freedom and to marginalization of the Tibetan population in Tibet has led protest of over 150 self immolation of Tibetans so far. The most recent incidents of self immolation took place on 29 Feb. 2016 two teenagers, namely Dorjee Tsering (age 16,India) and Kalsang Wangye (age 18, Tibet).

The gathered mass shouted slogans demanding dialogue between Chinese govt. and the envoy of H.H. the Dalai Lama, Stop killing in Tibet and let the Dalai Lama return to Tibet. The crowd was also addressed by Tibetan parliamentarian Mr. Tethong Wangpo, representative from various NGOs like European Tibetan Youth Congress, Tibetan Women Association, Tibet-Swiss Friendship, Tibetan New generation Association, Chinese Tibet supporter Mr. Wang and member of Swiss National Council, parliamentarian Mr. Cédric Wermuth (SP)

The event was ended with prayers presided by Khen Rinpoche and monks from Tibet Institute from Rikon and words of thanks from Vice-President of TCSL.

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