TIBET: In a heartfelt speech at the United Nations’ 18th Forum on Minority Issues, Tenzin Dorjee, a senior researcher and strategist from the Tibet Action Institute, made one of the strongest statements of the session. He used his opportunity to question the main idea of the panel and to emphasize an important truth that is often ignored in international discussions: Tibetans are not just a minority; they have been made into one. He referenced research from the Tibet Action Institute, pointing out that around three out of four Tibetan children, which amounts to about 800,000 to 900,000 students aged 6 to 18, are currently taken from their families and placed in government-run residential schools. In these schools, their Tibetan language, culture, and identity are being systematically erased. “These children are being methodically turned into Chinese,” he cautioned. He urged for these colonial institutions to be closed down and for local schools to be reopened so that children can grow up within their families and communities.
- Pray that God will protect the hearts, minds, and identities of Tibetan children who are being separated from their families. Ask that their language, culture, and heritage—gifts given by God—will be preserved despite attempts to erase them (The Holy Bible, Psalm 72:4).
- Pray that global leaders, human rights advocates, and international bodies will act with courage and integrity to stand against injustice in Tibet. Ask God to give boldness to voices like Tenzin Dorjee and wisdom to those working for the closure of harmful institutions and the restoration of community-based schools (The Holy Bible, Proverbs 31:8).
News Source: Phayul
Image Source: Canva
