Washington DC: 10 March 2025 marks the 66th anniversary of the 1959 uprising in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, when a large gathering of people from all three traditional provinces of Tibet staged a mass uprising against the oppressive Chinese Communist regime. It is also an important day to commemorate the Tibetan heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives for the Tibetan nation and people. Every year, Tibetans in exile around the world commemorate 10 March as Tibetan National Uprising Day by holding various events and activities. Similarly, the 66th anniversary of the 10 March uprising was also commemorated across North America.

In North America, commemorations and events are typically held on weekends to coincide with holidays. However, since the 10 March anniversary holds significant political importance, it is observed on the actual date, 10 March. Even though many Tibetans are working on this day, they take time off to participate in the commemoration.

In North America, there are more than 30 Tibetan associations of varying sizes. On 10 March, most local Tibetan associations took responsibility for organising events, while in some locations, Tibetan associations collaborated with non-governmental organisations to jointly commemorate the 66th anniversary of the 10 March uprising in Lhasa. Tibetans organised protests against the brutal repression policies that the Chinese Communist government has implemented and continues to enforce in Tibet.

Tibetans held protest rallies and demonstrations; local officials and Tibetan supporters delivered speeches about the significance of 10 March in Tibet’s history. The Tibetan flag was hoisted in front of state, city, and other official buildings as a symbol of solidarity. Speeches focused on the events of the Tibetan National Uprising Day and Tibet’s historical status as a fully independent nation. Official statements were issued by the Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile were read aloud. The national anthem of Tibet was played, followed by prayers for truth and for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Protest marches took place, with participants carrying Tibetan flags, banners, and posters displaying various slogans. Additionally, settlement offices issued proclamations to observe 10 March, commemorating Tibetan National Uprising Day.

Representative, Dr. Namgyal Choedup of the Office of Tibet, Washington DC, traveled specifically to New York to participate in the 66th Tibetan National Uprising Day commemoration in front of the United Nations headquarters. At the ceremony, he delivered a speech in both Tibetan and English and read a statement from the Kashag. The President of the Tibetan Association also delivered an official statement from the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. Similarly, the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, former political prisoner Tawu Lobsang Jinpa, New York City Council member Julie Won, and Tibetan supporter Ganden Thurman gave speeches in support of Tibet and the Tibetan people.

These events were covered by in local news, television, online and newspapers.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Washington DC