Statement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the Thirteenth Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day, 10 March 1972
We commemorate March 10 once more, for it records in history a
significant nation-wide expression of the Tibetan people to free
themselves from the shackles of foreign domination. It is also a day
when one remembers all those who have lost their lives in this violent
upheaval and of the thousands who have suffered, physically and
otherwise, during these many years of cruel subjugation.
The past period of over a decade has been a time of great test for the
people of Tibet, especially for those who are still the victims of this
monstrous and alien onslaught on the very way of life that Tibetans
cherish. Young Tibetans, both under Chinese control and in the lands
where they have sought refuge, are becoming more conscious of their
national identitythere is this new awareness in them of the Tibetan
nation and the culture that once flourished there.
The truth about Tibet is spreading as each year passes by. And although
this is happening much too slowly compared to the urgency of the actual
situation, it is reaching nations and peoples of this world
irrespective of the system of governments they follow or the continents
to which they belong. This, I believe, is happening because more and
more people are beginning to recognise the justice and strength behind
the people of Tibets fight for freedom, and also because truth and
justice can never be hidden. In fact they must ultimately prevail and
triumph if justice at all exists in this worldand I believe that
justice does exist. One recent, encouraging example is the birth of a
new nation in Asiathe emergence of Bangladesh. This indeed was a
triumph of justice and a triumph of a peoples determination. It is
another historic landmark in mans never ending pursuit for the freedom
to live as they wish.
Although the freedom of Tibet cannot be predicted, changes are bound to
come. Even in the international scene great changes, unexpected a
decade ago, have occurred. China, too, is changing and she is compelled
to do so. She must break away from her isolation and outmoded ideas,
for today, she is a responsible member of the United Nations and thus
capable of doing much for the peace of mankind. We hope that is what
she will do, and we also hope that she will one day recognise the true
status of Tibet and the indomitable spirit of our people.
When we see the determination of the people; the national spirit of the
youth; and the growing support for our cause; we can see that the
future of Tibet is not dark. As long as there is this determination,
this national awareness, and this growing support, there is hope for
Tibet.
The Dalai Lama
March 10, 1972