Sikyong  Dr. Lobsang Sangay was accorded a rousing welcome by the children and community members of the Tibetan Association of NY&NJ during their public Losar celebration on 29 February.

Both the halls ( upper & lower) of the community was packed to its capacity with people in a jubilant mood. Representative Ngodup Tsering accompanied Sikyong as a guest at the celebration.

The event started off with Tibetan and American National Anthems by the children of Lodro Ketsel weekend Tibetan school. Performances by the children and choldum Dhoegar, interspersed the speeches.

The guests of honor included Rep Ngodup Tsering, state Senator, council members.

Sikyong wished the audience on Losar and spoke briefly on the accomplishments during his presidency. He mentioned about successful meetings with stare department officials.

Representative Ngodup Tsering highlighted the importance of studying cyber laws. He said, ” While enjoying the freedom of expression in our free society, one must know the implications of commenting negatively on other people’s private life”.

Senator and council members extended their greetings and assured their full support to the Tibetan cause.

Sikyong and Representative left early to attend the Panel discussion organised by the RTYC and sponsored by 8 grass-root organisations. The event was held at Hunters college in Manhattan. Sikyong gave key-note addresses. The 9 member coalition presented an award to Sikyong for his forthright leadership in human rights and democracy

 The sponsor organisations are RTYC, World Uigyur  Congress, Free Southern Mongolia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China democracy, SFT, Chushi Gangdruk, USTC,

Representative Tsering congratulated the organisers for staging a successful protest which enabled shutting down the photo exhibition staged by the Chinese consulate at the Elmhurst public library.

Later, All the representatives share their stories and experiences with China. The panel discussion was moderated by Dorjee Tseten, executive director of SFT.