NEW YORK CITY: Tibetans in New York City held a function to celebrate the 56th anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day on Friday, 2 September.

The chief guest at the function was Mr Tsewang Rigzin, member of Tibetan Parliament from North America. The function was attended by members of the Tibetan community and representatives from the various Tibetan organisations and institutes.

The introductory speech was delivered by Mr Tsering Palden, Vice President of Tibetan Community followed by addresses from the President of Tibetan Community of New York and New Jersey and Mr Kunga Tashi who came on behalf of the OOT.

Mr Kunga Tashi read out the Democracy Day statement of the Kashag and delivered a brief address. He emphasised the need to express gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for the gift of democracy that Tibetans are able to exercise today. He further spoke about the need to exert concerted efforts to resolve the Tibet issue and at the same time fulfill the sacred aspirations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He also lamented the misuse of social media platforms to express derogatory remarks in the name of democratic rights and reminded the public of the responsibilities that come along with rights.

Tibetan Parliamentarian Mr Tsewang Rigzin delivered the statement of the Tibetan Parliament and gave a brief overview of his activities and efforts since becoming a member of the Tibetan Parliament.

The function also included cultural performances and a thank you speech.