Contact June 2014 by Lha Charitable Trust

འབྲེལ་གཏུགས་གསར་འཕྲིན།

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A Free Monthly Publication For Tibetan Issues & Community Information Rgd No. HPENG/2013/51798

Tibetan Filmmaker Released By Edward Janich Dhondup Wangchen, co-director of the documentary film “Leaving Fear Behind”, was released from prison on June 5. He was arrested in 2008 following the release of the film, which is a collection of interviews with native Tibetans living under Chinese rule. In the film, they openly share their views on Chinese occupation, the Dalai Lama, and the then-upcoming 2008 Olympics. In a show of bravery and defiance, most of the Tibetans filmed chose to show their faces. Some 108 interviews were recorded before the material was smuggled out of Tibet in 2008. The film has gained international acclaim and First picture of Dhondup honours for Wangchen after release Wangchen, Photo: filmingfortibet.org including the Committee to Protect Journalists’ 2012 International Press Freedom Award, the Visual Art’s Guild’s 2013 Freedom award and The Human Rights Foundation’s 2014 Václav Havel Prize for Creative Dissent. These awards recognise the bravery of those willing to risk imprisonment and torture in order to share their stories with the world. “Leaving Fear Behind” was screened in Times Square in New York in March 2012, and for the European Parliament as part of its January 2014 review of the human rights situation in China. Continued on page 7

Volume: XVI Issue: 5

30 JUNE 2014

The US Puts Pressure on China By Michael Khabie-Zeitoune In two recent moves, the United States State Department has signalled growing impatience with China’s current policy on Tibet and their concern over the human rights situation there. The statements were made at a State Dept Spokesperson press briefing Marie Harf and in a new Photo: Tibet.net bill tabled in the House of Representatives. On June 6, US State Department Spokesperson Marie Harf stated that the US continues to urge China to engage unconditionally in “substantive dialogue” with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, address policies which are driving tensions in Tibetan areas and respond to requests for a US consulate in Lhasa. Following the stalemate in talks between Beijing and Dharamshala since 2010, China has continued to accuse the Dalai Lama and the government of seeking disguised independence. A recent statement from a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson shows little change in this position, and confirmed that China would only speak to the Dalai Lama’s representatives “and only about his personal future, not anything to do with Tibet.” On June 12, US Congressman Jim McGovern introduced a bill to the US House of Representatives, the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act, which would promote greater access

to Tibetan areas for US officials, journalists and citizens. Under the legislation, Chinese officials who have designed or implemented restrictions would be denied access to the US. Current restrictions on travel to Tibet are “more severe than for any other provincial-level entity of China”, according to McGovern. More than ten US requests for diplomatic access have been denied, and prolonged delays hindered US efforts to support Americans involved in a bus accident in Tibet in October 2013. Both Ms Harf and Congressman McGovern have voiced concerns over the effect of hardline Chinese policy on human rights for Tibetans. McGovern stated that restrictions force Tibetans to live in “virtual isolation from Congressman the world Jim McGovern community”, Photo: Phayul making it difficult to objectively assess the human rights situation there. These developments follow a pledge of support from the Obama administration for the Middle-Way Approach and come on the eve of a new global awareness campaign, “Umaylam: The Middle-Way Approach”, in which the Tibetan Government-in-exile has renewed its efforts to clarify its strategy to achieve “genuine autonomy” for Tibetans within China.

about lha & contact

Lha Charitable Trust

Institute for Social Work & Education Mission Statement:

Lha is a resource of education and knowledge that provides meaningful, multi-leveled social and educational services for the benefit of others.

Background:

Lha is a Tibetan grassroots nonprofit organisation based in Dharamshala, India. It is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training,

health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. Through rehabilitation resources and social and educational services, Lha facilitates an easy transition for the Tibetan refugee community to India. On a daily basis, Lha serves over 250 people, hosts between 15 and 25 volunteers and provides up to 20 different services, including on average 50 nutritious meals per day for financially disadvantaged people. For more information about Lha, please visit: www.lhasocialwork.org

Become a Sponsor for Lha’s Soup Kitchen On 6 July 2011, Lha opened its community soup kitchen at its new building, Ahimsa House. This is the first soup kitchen in Dharamshala and serves low-cost and nutritious meals to the Tibetan refugee community. Forty to fifty needy refugees can take advantage of this service every day for a nominal fee of 15 rupees per person, per meal. Meals are completely free for those who cannot afford to pay. The kitchen’s primary objective is to provide refugees with low-cost and nutritious meals while educating them about healthy eating and living. The kitchen will also serve as a space where refugees can receive formal training for the service and restaurant industry.

Acknowledgement

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Contact

Contact keeps readers up-to-date on current issues and events, and provides networking, education and volunteer opportunities, as well as social services information. Contact staff and contributors hope you will enjoy and benefit from our modest efforts to build a community through communication. May peace and love prevail! Guidelines for submission: Contact welcomes submissions of articles, news and photography. We also gladly accept information about upcoming events, volunteer work and special projects. All material intended for publication in Contact must be submitted by the 20th of each month. Your letter may not be printed if it is unsigned, illegible, slanderous or malicious. We reserve the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar and length. Send your material via email to editor@contactmagazine.net

Lha collects all kinds of donations in the form of clothing, shoes, books, Please Note: and language resources, computer The articles, stories and other material and medical supplies, as well as any in Contact represent the views of the authors and not necessarily the views other useful items.

This Issue of Contact is sponsored by the Taiwan Foundation for Monetary donations are extremely Democracy (TFD). TFD’s kind helpful and are greatly appreciated, contribution has made this large or small. publication possible. We thank TFD for supporting the publication of Contact.

Contact, a free monthly publication of Lha Charitable Trust, is a recognised and registered publication under the Registrar Office of the Newspaper, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Government of India. The registration number is HPENG/2013/51798. Recognised by Lonely Planet and other international travel resources, Contact has been a popular source of news and information on Tibetan issues, and the Dharamshala community, for over 14 years. 700 - 1,000 copies are printed per issue and distributed in the greater Dharamshala area and in Delhi, and various diplomatic missions to India. Copies are also send to various Tibetan schools, settlements, offices and NGOs in India.

Please contact the office: office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992 2

of the Contact editing staff or Lha Social Work. All comments on this issue should be submitted by email to editor@ contactmagazine.net Contact is available at many places around McLeod Ganj including the Lha office, libraries, travel agencies, hotels, restuarants and shops. JUNE 2014

about lha & contact

World Environment Day Project On June 5, Lha collaborated with the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme to observe World Environment Day. Everyone gathered at the McLeod Main Square in the morning and the programme started with students from the nearby Dharamshala Cantonment School who marched around the market to make the public aware of environmental issues.

Volunteers and students carrying loads of garbage after cleaning the Tipa Road Photo: Lha

This was followed by a skit play by Arts Salad, a dance class based in Jogiwara Road. The main project focused on a Mass Clean-up in three main areas that required serious cleaning, namely the Tipa Road, Yongling School area and the Tushita Road. There were around 150 participants, including nearly 100 volunteers, students and staff member of Lha. We also distributed brochures on how to manage waste material, printed in three languages: Tibetan, Hindi and English. Lha took charge of the Tipa Road while the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme took responsibility of the Tushita Road and the Yongling School area, respectively. All the people who took part in this Mass Clean-up project were so hard working and active.

We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who took part in this project and a special thanks to our partner organisations, the Tibetan Women’s Association and the Clean Upper Dharamshala Programme, for collaborating with us and making this event a much bigger success. Thank you! Keep our city clean and green.

The group waiting for garbage truck to pick up the garbage bags Photo: Lha

Lha Traveler Services & Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer

Long or short-term, skilled or unskilled volunteers needed at Lha • English conversation Mon – Fri, 4pm – 5pm • English, French, and Chinese teachers & tutors • Computer teachers • Web designers and IT professionals • Contributing writers • Environmental professionals • Medical & healthcare professionals • Fundraisers & grant writers • Project professionals • Chefs & cooks • Human rights & legal professionals • Personal assistant (PA) • And much more! Lha offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skills with the local Tibetan, Indian, and Himalayan communities whilst gaining hands-on experience working with a social work organisation. Lha volunteers will develop friendships, learn about issues facing the Tibetan refugee community, and become immersed in the fascinating cultures of the people they are serving. Contact

Classes and Services

TIBETAN COOKING CLASS Individuals and small groups can learn to prepare a variety of traditional and modern vegetarian Tibetan foods

including momos, thukpa and Tibetan bread, with a qualified teacher. TIBETAN HOME-STAY Lha arranges home-stays with refugee families giving visitors the chance to experience the Tibetan life style and a chance to connect and learn about each others’ cultures. Spend your time in Dharamshala learning the language, cooking Tibetan meals, sharing rituals with a family, and making friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Homestays include accomodation, breakfast, and dinner.

RECEPTION & ORIENTATION Our services help smooth your arrival in Delhi, and your onward travel to Dharamshala, and also to orientate you to the Tibetan community here. Avoid the scams at Delhi Airport! These services are highly recommended for people who want a stress-free arrival, especially if you are arriving late at night or early in the morning, and can be purchased online in advance of your travel to India There is a discount for people travelling together. *All donations and fees from Lha classes and services directly benefit Lha community social work projects. For information on cost, times and/or registration, please visit: Lha office, Temple Road McLeod Ganj-176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P. (Mon-Sat: 9:00am-12:00pm & 1:00-5:00pm) office@lhasocialwork.org (0) 1892-220992 www.lhasocialwork.org www.contactmagazine.net www.tibetnature.net JUNE 2014

news & issues

Striking a Balance: Modi, China, and the Bottom Line for Tibet By Peter Newman All eyes are on Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Since their landslide victory in the general election last month, Tibetans and Indians alike have been seeking signs that the Modi administration will be able to keep its campaign promises of economic invigoration and a revitalised Indian foreign policy. Early actions by the administration suggest that it recognises the major role that China has to play in achieving these goals, and there is evidence that a fresh China policy, coupling intensive economic co-operation with a newlyassertive foreign policy, is emerging. Narendra Modi and the BJP swept to victory in May on a platform of economic growth and the dawn of a new Indian prosperity, and it was not the Indian electorate alone that responded warmly to this econocentric agenda. On June 8, just two weeks after Modi’s inauguration, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi led a special envoy to New Delhi for two days of talks with India’s Minister for External Affairs, Ms Sushma Swaraj. The meetings, which centred around increases in Chinese direct investment and the creation of “special economic zones,” present Prime Minister Modi with the prospect of an economic

Mr Wang Yi and Ms Sushma Swaraj Photo: news.cn

revival fuelled by heavy Chinese investment and trade. The talks present China with the potential to access the vast emerging Indian market, and the chance to strengthen ties with a regional power at a time when the United States has shifted its foreign policy focus to containing Contact

global Chinese influence. Comments from the governments of both nations on the June meetings suggest that each recognises the economic potential in what Foreign Minister Yi described as “the emerging tip of a massive buried treasure.” Two long-standing issues complicate prospects for a new era of Sino-Indian partnership, however. The first is the series of territorial disputes over portions of Ladakh, Sikkim, and the north eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh that have plagued Sino-Indian relationships for over fifty years, manifesting most recently when the Chinese military made incursions into Ladakh in March. Though the June meetings between Foreign Minister Yi and Minister Swaraj included negotiations over the disputed territories, Prime Minister Modi has already taken a more assertive position on territorial and foreign policy issues. Since his term began, Modi has ordered the construction of military-grade highways and the fortification of 54 border posts in Arunachal Pradesh, and named VK Singh, a former army chief and well-known “hawk” on national security issues, Minister of State for the “North Eastern Region.” The Modi administration has also begun to reach out to the governments of Sri Lanka and the Maldives, which have developed closer ties with China in recent years, presumably in an effort to counter China’s growing influence in South-East Asia. These actions seem to indicate that Modi and the Hindu nationalist BJP intend to defend Indian foreign policy interests against China more vigorously than its predecessors. A second complication for Sino-Indian relations is the Modi administration’s early treatment of Tibetans living in exile. Though Indian police halted a sizeable Tibetan protest against Foreign Minister Yi’s visit to New Delhi before it reached the Chinese embassy, the Prime Minister has taken a number 4

of small but meaningful steps with regard to the Tibet issue. The first was his decision to invite Sikyong, the political head of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) to his swearing-in ceremony on May 27, and to seat him in a front section - a move

Sikyong seated with other dignitaries at the swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi Photo: Tibet.net/CTA

that led China to file a formal protest with the Indian government. Second is the Prime Minister’s appointment of Dr Ajit Kumar Doval, a known supporter of the CTA and the Tibetan exile community, as National Security Advisor. Though these actions may appear slight, they reflect the Modi administration’s greater willingness to stand up to China on foreign policy matters, and to assert an early, if temperate, support for the Tibetan exile community. The exact balance the Modi administration seeks to strike between economic co-operation with China and deterrence against Chinese encroachment on Indian foreign policy interests remains to be seen. For the international Tibetan community, much depends on this calculation. Should Modi pursue intensive economic engagement with China, India’s Tibet policy could be at risk of becoming subject to Chinese economic influence (as many argue has become the case in Nepal). Should the Prime Minister pursue too aggressive a foreign policy agenda, any potential for meaningful bilateral negotiations on Tibet would likely be lost. Until Modi strikes his balance, the precise nature of Sino-Indian relations and the future of the Tibetan cause will remain uncertain. JUNE 2014

news & issues

A Warm Welcome for His Holiness in Italy By Tsering Wangdue The Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited Italy from June 10-16. His Holiness’s first visit was to the Lama Tsong Khapa Institute in Pomaia in Pisa. On June 12 the Dalai Lama met a delegation from the Sacred Convent of Assisi, together with more than 80 journalists. He spoke to the gathering about the importance of the media in promoting human values and religious harmony. On the morning of his final day in Pomaia, His Holiness blessed the fivemetre tall, four-armed Chenrezig statue at the Lama Tsong Khapa Institute and gave a teaching. Around one thousand people gathered there to listen to the Dalai Lama give a teaching on

developing love and compassion. His Holiness emphasised the importance of studying the teachings in order to learn from them. The Lama Tsong Khapa Institute, one of the largest Buddhist centres

At Lama Tsong Khapa Institute, Pomaia Photo: FilmPro

in Europe, was founded in 1977. The institute runs a Liberation Prison Project which offers spiritual teachings and advice to prisoners, and to date

the project has benefited thousands of prisoners in Italy. This teaching was watched live by 1,200 prisoners in Milan via the internet. On June 14 His Holiness was warmly welcomed to the Modigliani Forum by the Mayor of Livorno, Filippo Nogarin, before beginning his teaching there. He was presented with the Key to the city of Livorno, having already received an honorary citizenship there during an earlier visit. At the Forum, His Holiness gave commentaries on the great Buddhist scholar Nagarjuna’s “Shetring” (letter to a friend) and on the following day gave the “Avalokiteshvara Jigten Wangchuk” empowerment and a public talk on “Ethics and Compassion”.

Silence in Beijing on Tiananmen Anniversary By Myrto Vogiatzi Thousands of police and paramilitary troops patrolled Tiananmen Square earlier this month on the 25th anniversary of China’s brutal crackdown there on pro-democracy protesters. Although there was no trace of demonstrations or public commemorations, repressive tactics began earlier and were more extensive than in previous years. At least 66 activists, lawyers, artists and victims’ relatives were detained by the Chinese authorities in connection with the Tiananmen anniversary, according to Amnesty International. Western journalists were ordered by the police to stay away from the square or risk “serious consequences”, according to several reporters who were summoned to meetings with security officials. One French broadcast team, picked up by the police while interviewing people about the crackdown, was interrogated for six hours and forced to make a videotaped confession. The harassments faced by journalists came with increased internet censorship, including a block of The Wall Street Journal’s Chinese site and a block of Facebook, Twitter and Google services. Contact

In stark contrast with the silence in Beijing, more than 180,000 people - police put the estimate at 99,500 - converged in Victoria Park in Hong Kong for a candlelight vigil. The names of those who died in the

called on Beijing to “speedily redress the wrongs to ensure that such a tragedy will never happen again”. The United States has urged China to account for those who were killed, detained or went missing in connection with the 1989 protest. Beijing reacted angrily to the White House statement, accusing Washington of a “total disregard of fact”. Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hong Lei said it “blames

Vigil in Hong Kong Photo: New York Times

protests were read out loud as footage of the clampdown was shown on large screens. Among the crowd were many from the Chinese mainland. Under the agreement governing Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997, Hong Kong has far greater civil liberties than the mainland. In the Taiwanese capital Taipei, exiled Chinese dissidents and witnesses of the crackdown addressed a crowd of about 500 people. Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou described the massacre as an “enormous historical wound” and

Protestors in Tiananmen Square in 1989 Photo: Boston Globe

the Chinese government for no reason, gravely interferes in China’s internal affairs and violates the basic norms guiding international relations”. His Holiness the Dalai Lama offered his prayers to the Tiananmen dead and issued a statement urging Beijing to embrace democracy. JUNE 2014

news & issues

A Middle-Way to Freedom By Michael Khabie-Zeitoune A new campaign, “Umaylam: The Middle-Way Approach” launched by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on June 5, is “the most concerted effort to date to secure basic freedom”

Presenting the Middle Way documents to His Holiness the Dalai Lama Photo: Tibet.net

for the Tibetan people through “genuine autonomy”, according to Dr Lobsang Sangay, the elected political head of the CTA. The campaign aims to clarify CTA proposals for Tibetan

autonomy within China and counter misinformation about the MiddleWay policy in the international community. The Middle-Way policy was first established in 1974 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and has the support of international leaders such as US President Barak Obama, as well as that of Chinese intellectuals such as Nobel Laureate Liu Xiaobo. It seeks genuine autonomy for Tibetans through a middle path “between repression and separation from China”. The campaign materials make clear how long the Middle-Way policy has been adopted, its impact to date and future intentions. They include an interactive website, a seven-minute documentary video, a social media campaign, a timeline of the Tibetan struggle and FAQs in several languages. During the inauguration

ceremony in Dharamshala, which attracted wide press coverage, the information materials were presented to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for blessing. The campaign launch follows a stalemate in talks (nine rounds from 2002 and 2010) between Beijing and Dharamshala. China has accused the CTA of seeking independence in disguise following the 2008 Memorandum on “Genuine Autonomy for the Tibetan People” a memorandum from the CTA which respects China’s territorial integrity, while setting out core Tibetan needs within China, such as cultural and environmental preservation. On a number of occasions, Sikyong Sangay has addressed deliberate attempts by Chinese officials to mislead international leaders about the Tibetan strategy.

Trade and Investment, or Human Rights? By Annie Padwick Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and 200 Chinese business leaders arrived in the United Kingdom on June 17 to begin three days of economic talks with UK Prime Minister David Cameron and government representatives. Expectations of this visit were high, as China and Britain were set to sign around 40 economic co-operation and investment agreements worth an

David Cameron and Li Keqiang Photo: scmp.com

estimated £18 billion ($30billion). As early as the first day of the visit, negotiations looked to be in jeopardy as Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said he could not ignore “the very large scale human rights abuses that still occur” in China. Contact

Chinese-British economic relations soured in 2012 after the British Prime minister met the Dalai Lama. In response, China made no officials available to meet a British delegation on its visit to China the same year. Chinese ambassador to Britain, Liu Xiaoming, speaking ahead of the visit, said “many opportunities were missed in the last year and we all know the reasons behind it”. He maintained that he was positive about further economic co-operation, but also warned the UK not to “point the finger” at human rights in China if they wanted economic co-operation. Previously Chinese diplomats had also threatened to cancel their visit unless the Chinese Premier was granted an audience with the Queen. Deputy Prime Minister Clegg has criticised China for abuse of human rights, persecution of journalists and widespread use of the death penalty. However, he argues that Britain should not “sever ties” with China, because in the long run “commercial prosperity [and] economic transformation in China will lead to an ever increasing 6

pressure for social and political emancipation.” Downing Street has distanced itself from Clegg’s comments and a Conservative business minister has stated that human rights should not get in the way of growing trade relationships. However, not all the English public agrees with this approach, and protesters gathered in Downing Street to make their views known to the government and the Chinese delegates. Padma Dolma of Students for a Free Tibet said, “We are not asking for Britain to stop any economic ties with China, what we are asking for is to Protest at Downing Street resist the Photo: scmp.com bullying tactics that China is carrying out towards the UK Government [.. and] to find a meaningful and peaceful resolution for the crisis in Tibet.” JUNE 2014

news & issues

His Holiness Reaches Out to Tibetan Youngsters By Mary Trewartha His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Annual Summer Teaching took place on June 4-6 at Tibetan Children’s Village School. This annual teaching, which has been snowballing yearly since its introduction in 2007, included all Tibetan schools in Himachal and about 100 students from Sambotha and CST (Tibetan run) schools, totalling around 3,500 participants. The teaching introduces youngsters to Tibetan Buddhism and focused this year on the “Sherab Nyingpo” (Heart Sutra) and “Manjushri prayer - Gang Loma” (Praise to the Intelligent One).

His Holiness expressed concern over the dwindling interest in Buddhism among young Tibetan people. He

Students during the teaching at Upper TCV Photo: TCVupdate.wordpress.com

said that only a few Tibetans born in exile now enrol into monasteries,

though it is not mandatory to become a monk to study Buddhism. He urged the young people present to study Tibetan Buddhism as an educational field instead of following it as a blind faith, and encouraged them to ask questions. On the third day, His Holiness gave the Avalokiteshvara initiation which, to accommodate more people, was held at the main basketball ground. The teaching was followed by the launch of the Central Tibetan Administration’s Middle-Way Approach Campaign by the elected head of the Tibetan people, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay.

The Karmapa Visits Europe By Tsering Wangdue The 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje left for a tour of Europe on May 28. His programmes included giving Buddhist teachings, addressing current social issues and speaking of the significance of compassion in today’s world. Starting at the Kamalashila Buddhist Institute in Langenfeld, West Germany, the Karmapa met representatives from all the European Karma Kagyu centres and organisations. In Nuerburgring, he made the Tibetan Traditional Buddhism teaching accessible to the 2,000 people present. The Karmapa followed this with the “Empowerment of the Eighty Four Mahasiddhas” and the “Empowerment of the Medicine Buddha” on subsequent days, and thanked all the

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teachings at the Estrel Convention Centre in Sonnenallee in Berlin and spoke on the social and environmental

The Karmapa in Langenfeld, Germany Photo: kagyuoffice.org

responsibility of young people. He also gave a religious transmission from the 13th century to his followers. The Karmapa delivered his first ever public talk in Europe on June 5, speaking on “Ancient wisdom for the modern world; heart advice for a meaningful life”.

Tibetan Filmmaker Released

Amnesty International followed his case closely, and pressed the government for his early release. Dhondup Wangchen has also received support from Human Rights Watch, Front Line, The Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy. The run-up to his release saw a Contact

supporters who made his journey possible, especially friends in the Indian Government. The Karmapa inaugurated a stupa at the Kamalashila Institute, and spoke about stupas and their representation of the physical body, speech and mind of the Buddha. He then planted a tree to demonstrate personal responsibility in environmental protection and preservation. In Cologne, he visited the Cathedral and spoke at the Catholic University, stressing that compassion is “shared commonly by all religions”. Travelling to Berlin, Gyalwa Karmapa met Rabbi Ben-Chorin and Rabbi Gesa Ederberg, the leaders of the Berlin Jewish community and visited the Holocaust Museum and the Berlin Wall. He later gave

widespread campaign by the many people concerned that Wangchen would be kept in detention. A campaign called “Unchain the Truth” was led by friends and relatives of those who worked on the film, as well as Students for a Free Tibet to keep the international spotlight on his forthcoming release. Born in 1974 in Amdo, Wangchen

received no formal education. In Lhasa he witnessed a pro-independence demonstration which laid the foundation for his later activism. In a phone call to his cousin, Gyaljong Tsultrin, Wangchen said “I would like to express my feeling of deepest gratitude for all the support I received while in prison and I want to be reunited with my family.” JUNE 2014

news & issues

Chinese Restrictions at Saka Dawa and Kalachakra Celebrations By Annie Padwick This month, Tibetan Buddhists celebrate their most important religious holiday, Saka Dawa. Saka Dawa is a full month of celebrations honouring the life of the Buddha. The festival is celebrated during the fourth month of the Tibetan Lunar Calendar, a significant month as it is the one in which the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death occurred. This year Saka Dawa ran from May 29 – June 27, with major celebrations taking place during the full moon on June 13. The word “Dawa” in Tibetan means “month”; “Saka” is the name of the most prominent star at this time of year. Tibetan Buddhists observe Saka Dawa by paying special attention to their Dharma practice, visiting holy sites to offer prayers and engaging in spiritual activities. In recent years, restrictions on religious freedom during Saka Dawa

have been reported in Tibet, together with an increase in video and police surveillance. The Central Tibetan Administration reports that government officials in Tibet have been asked not

Further restrictions have been imposed on Tibetans wishing to travel to India to attend the Kalachakra Initiations being led by the Dalai Lama in July in Leh, Ladakh. Consequences for people travelling to the Kalachakra Initiations in India include the withdrawal of their “them-tho”, a household registration system, the source reports. Kalachakra, which means “Wheel of Time,” is a ritual that prepares devotees to be reborn in Shambhala, a celestial kingdom which, it is said, will vanquish the forces of evil in a future cosmic battle. Tibetans gather for the Kalachakra in Tsoe in Radio Free Asia has reported that Amdo, Tibet the Chinese government has banned Photo: RFA travel to Kalachakra ceremonies in to take their annual leave during this Tsoe in Amdo, Tibet, and threatened period under threat of dismissal. It has to punish citizens who ignore the ban. also reported restrictions on visitors to Despite this, thousands of Tibetans have Mount Kailash, a sacred mountain and attended the ceremony amid heavy a popular holy site during this time. security presence.

Russia Welcomes Former Tibetan Prime Minister By Myrto Voyatzis Former Kalon Tripa Venerable Professor Samdhong Rinpoche visited Russia from May 26 until June 7 at the invitation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Kalmyk Buddhist Temple and

Devotees greet Samdhong Rinpoche Photo: Facebook/Samdhongrinpoche

the Save Tibet Foundation in Moscow. This was his first visit to the country since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. In Ulan Ude, the capital of Buryat Republic, Samdhong Rinpoche Contact

participated in the “International Conference on Buddhism in the Changing World,” organised by the Institute for Mongolian, Buddhist and Tibetan Studies. During the conference, Rinpoche read a message that the Dalai Lama had sent to the conference, and gave two talks entitled “The Challenges Faced by Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan Community in the Modern World” and “Scientific Evidence of the Theory and Practice of Buddhist Meditation”. Rinpoche co-chaired panels on “Buddhism, Philosophy, Science and Comparative Studies” (pictured above) and participated in a round-table discussion on “Buddhism in the West” 8

and “Russian-Mongolian Co-operation in Studying Buddhism”. At the public presentation of Prof Robert Thurman’s book “Why the Dalai Lama matters”, Rinpoche spoke about the “Role and Activities of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama for the Modern World”. From June 3-6, Rinpoche visited Elista, the capital of Kalmyk Republic, at the invitation of the President of Kalmyk Buddhist Union, Reverend Telo Tulku Rinpoche, and former Prime Minster of the Kalmyk Republic, Mr Vladimir Sengleev. There Rinpoche gave two public teachings: “Commentary on Nagarjuna’s Letter to a Friend” in the main temple of Kalmykia, followed by a meeting with members of the Friends of Tibet Society. On his last day, Samdhong Rinpoche gave a public talk: “Meditation as Tool for Inner Transformation: How to Deepen One’s Spiritual Practice and Avoid Mistakes”. JUNE 2014

news & issues

Tibetan Parliamentarians Seek Support in Europe By Maria Dahl Delegates from the Tibetan Parliamentin-exile have visited Europe in order to bring greater attention to the critical situation prevailing inside Tibet and to gain support for the Middle-Way Approach campaign. Their mission was to meet European Parliamentarians in the countries visited as well as Tibet support groups. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile, led the group with Tibetan Parliamentarians Karma Choephel, Mr Dawa Phunkyi and Mr Jamyang Soepa. Mr Wangpo Tethong, Member of the Tibetan Parliament from the

Tibetan delegation in Bratislava Photo Tibet.net

Europe constituency, joined the delegation in Europe. The countries visited were Belgium, Slovakia, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria and Switzerland. In the Czech Republic, Senator Mr Petr Bratský, head of the Tibet Group

within the Czech Senate said, “We understand your situation, we want to express our support for the Tibetan people and democracy in Tibet.” Mr František Šebej, Chairman of the Slovakian Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee said “I wish to express my solidarity with the Tibetan people” and stated that he was happy to fly the Tibetan national flag every year on March 10. This year, 160 Tibetan flags were hoisted across Slovakia. The delegation was also told that 644 Tibetan flags were hoisted across Czech Republic in schools, towns and cities on Uprising Day.

Basketball Winners for a Society Free from Sexual Violence By Wendhe Choetsoe The Regional Tibetan Women’s Association (RTWA) Basketball Team has been celebrating not only their win in the “Dhasa Tibetan Women’s Basketball Tournament”, but the endorsement by the tournament of a campaign for a society free from sexual violence. The week-long tournament is organised annually to promote women’s health and attracts more teams each year. All players wore purple wrist bands this year for the campaign for a sexual-violence free society.

The tournament was organised collectively by the eight participating teams*. It was opened on May 25 by Nangsa Choedon, Secretary of the Public Service Commission, and at the closing ceremony Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Mr Penpa Tsering, and Home Kalon Gyari Dolma of the CTA praised the organisers for promoting the awareness campaign. Tenzin Tseyang of the Women’s Empowerment Desk at the CTA, who initiated the basketball tournaments to encourage Tibetan women to participate in sports, told Contact Magazine,

“Increasing news reports on sexual violence cases in our community calls for urgent mass programmes, and I saw the Dhasa Tibetan Women’s Basketball Tournament as the best opportunity.”

*The eights teams were: the Dept of Home; Drogmo; Ex- TCV; Gu Chu Sum; Norbulinga; RTWA; Tibetan Career Centre and Tibetan Women’s Football team.

A Glorious Win for Tashiling FC in the GCM Golden Cup By Tsering Wangdue The 20th Gyalyum Chenmo Memorial Gold Cup (GCMGC), the biggest football tournament in exile Tibetan

society, finished with a glorious win by Tashiling Football Club from Pokhara, Nepal who beat Dhondupling FC from Contact

Clement Town, Dehradun in North India. The first match kicked off on June 4 with 21 teams qualifying for the final tournament held at at the Dhondupling Tibetan settlement in Dehradun. The teams were divided into seven pools, the best team from each pool going forward to the quarterfinal stage. A friendly football match was also held between the Tibetan national women’s team and the Dehradun Football Academy women’s team. Despite an impressive display of football skills and sportsmanship, the

Tibetan women’s team lost 5-2. The tournament finale was on June 15, with Tashiling beating defending champions Dhondupling by 2 goals to win the title after 11 years. Norbu Jinpa from Tashiling FC was awarded the “Best Player” of the tournament, scoring 9 goals. The award for Fair Play went to Mundgod FC from the South India Tibetan settlement. The GCMGC was founded in 1981 in memory of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s much-loved mother, and has been organised by the Tibetan National Sports Association since 2003. JUNE 2014

news & issues

Tibetan Headlines Jun 26: Safety in Schools Students’ safety and security in Tibetan schools, especially that of girls, is being prioritised as schools administrators from the major Tibetan schools meet to discuss ways of safeguarding children. Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, who is also the Education Kalon (minister), announced a new guideline for schools, produced by the CTA, and urged zero-tolerance of any transgressions. Jun 25: Prisoner Freed Sonam Norgye, 30, has been freed after serving three years in Powo Tramo prison in Nyingtri. He was detained in June 2011, for desecrating a Chinese flag and was brutally tortured during interrogation. Jun 24: His Holiness in Padum His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived in Padum in Zanskar, Jammu & Kashmir, India, where he is giving a two-day teaching on Tsongkhapa’s “Concise Stages of the Path to Enlightenment”. Jun 23: Torture Victims’ Day International Day in Support of Torture Victims was observed at the TCV Day School in McLeod Ganj with the theme “Fighting Impunity”. The event was organised by the Department of Health of the CTA and Gu-Chu-Sum Former Political Prisoners’ Movement. Jun 22: Karmapa’s Birthday The 16th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje celebrated his 30th birthday and the day was marked by over 400 Tibetans in New York and New Jersey. The Karmapa is the head of the Karma Kagyu of Kagyupa, which is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Contact

Jun 21: Two Writers Released Two Tibetan writers have been released from Menyang prison on the outskirts of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Jangtse Dhonkho, 36, and Bhudha, 34, were jailed in 2010 for writing anti-China articles about the 2008 Tibetan unrest in the literary magazine Shar Dungri (Eastern Snow Mountain), which is now banned. Jun 19: Protesters Detained 27 Tibetans from Karsel village in Chabcha county, Tsolho, have been detained for opposing local Chinese mining operations that have run beyond their contract and had begun to encroach on sacred sites. The Tibetans vowed to block any further Chinese mining of white marble in their area in order to protect their land and environment, and the adjacent cemetery and site of spiritual significance. Jun 16: 60 Men Detained 60 men have been detained in Gewar village in Tongar Town, Dzogang county in Chamdo. They are being questioned about the recent mining protests and the death of Phakpa Gyaltsen who stabbed himself before jumping to his death last month. The men in the village, and anybody who had travelled to India, were ordered to attend a meeting where one member of each family was taken into custody. Jun 13: Monk Freed Ghangbhu Yudruk, a Tibetan monk from Koetsa village in Serta County, Kardze has been released from a Chinese detention centre in Minyak. He was arrested in 2012 for carrying out various anti-government protests as a member of “Margol Donglen Tsokpa” (Organisation to Tackle Communist Repression). 10

Jun 12: Shamar Rinpoche Shamar Rinpoche Mipham Chokyi Lodro, a prominent spiritual figure and an influential personality from the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, has died of a heart attack in Germany. Shamar Rinpoche was born in Derge, Tibet. Jun 8: Miss Tibet 2014 Lone contestant Tenzin Yangzom, 23, from Gangtok in Sikkim was crowned the new Miss Tibet 2014. Lobsang Wa n g y a l , director and producer of the yearly Miss Tibet pageant said “We received eight applications for this year’s pageant. Five were confirmed but four withdrew at the last minute expressing various personal problems.” Jun 7: Prayers Disrupted A prayer service for the long life and welfare of jailed Tibetan spiritual leader Tulku Tenzin Delek has been prevented by Chinese authorities in Lithang. Tibetan monks and laypeople at the Nalanda Theckchen Janghub Choeling were stopped and rebuked. Tulku Tenzin Delek is in jail on charges related to bomb blasts in Kardze and is the focus of a campaign for his release. Jun 2: Deteriorating Health Two monks from Nyatso Zilkar monastery who are currently in prison are believed to be seriously ill following torture and deprivation of medical facilities. Tsultrim Kalsang, 27, is in Xining Prison, the other is Lobsang Jinpa, 32. It is believed they are in prison because they are related to two men who self-immolated together in June 2012. JUNE 2014

news & issues

International Headlines Jun 27: Ebola “Drastic” The deadly Ebola fever in West Africa is spreading and the World Health Organisation says that “drastic action” is needed to contain it. With nearly 400 people dead in the last four months it is the largest outbreak of the disease. There is no cure for Ebola which is passed on by contact with body fluids of infected people or animals. Jun 26: Libya Election Libya went to the polls in a bid to end the anarchy that has gripped the country since the 2011 overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi. However, fewer than half those who registered to vote turned out, and there were clashes between government forces and militants. To reduce tensions the nearly 2,000 candidates stood as individuals for places in the new 200seat parliament. Jun 25: Genocide Charges Dropped The investigation by Spain’s National Court into Chinese former leaders’ alleged genocide in Tibet has been scrapped. The investigation does not comply with a new law curbing Spanish courts’ use of universal jurisdiction to pursue crimes against humanity committed abroad. This new law was drawn up when, following the original Spanish investigation, pressure from China threatened damaged relations with Spain. Jun 23: “Unprovoked Attack” Israel claims to have attacked nine military targets in Syria in response to the killing of a 15-year-old boy, and injuries to others, in a strike in the occupied Golan Heights on the border between the two countries. It is unclear whether Syrian government forces were behind the incident, but Israel has described it as “an unprovoked act of aggression against Israel”. Contact

Jun 21: 50 Million Refugees To mark World Refugees Day, the United Nations has reported that the number of people living as refugees from war or persecution is rising. 6.3 million people have been refugees for years and some camps have become virtually permanent, with their own schools, hospitals, and businesses. The UN also estimates there are now 33.3 million internally displaced people. Jun 18: South China Sea China’s top diplomat Yang Jiechi is in Vietnam for talks in a bid aimed at easing tensions about both countries’ claims in the South China Sea. In May, China moved an oil rig into waters claimed by Vietnam sparking protest and anti-China demonstrations in Vietnam, culminating in riots. Since then, Chinese and Vietnamese boats have been squaring off in waters near the rig. Jun 16: Schumacher Wakes German racing legend Michael Schumacher, 45, has woken from the coma which followed a severe head injury he suffered in a skiing accident in the French Alps last December. He has left hospital in Grenoble and transferred to Lausanne University Hospital in Switzerland. Jun 13: 2014 World Cup The Fifa World Cup in Brazil opened with a colourful ceremony in which 660 dancers paid tribute to the country’s n a t u r e , people and football histoty. The tournament will see 32 nations compete in 64 games. Jun 12: Giant Moths Malaysia has been invaded by swarms of the giant Lyssa Zampa tropical moth, also known as the Laos brown butterfly. The furry moths have a wing span of up to 16 cm and are invading

homes, and have even interrupted a football match. Experts say there is no need for people to protect themselves against the moths as they do not cause any allergies or diseases. Jun 10: Sexual Violence The Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, a four-day summit being held in London, is calling on the 140 nations present to write action against sexual violence into their military training. The event is the culmination of a two-year campaign spearheaded by United Kingdom Foreign Secretary William Hague and UN Special Envoy Angelina Jolie. Jun 9: New President Egypt’s new President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has been sworn in after his landslide election win. He has vowed to tackle terrorism and bring security, and pledged no reconciliation with those who have “committed violence”. Jun 5: G7 Leaders Warn Russia Leaders of the G7 industrial nations say they are prepared to impose further sanctions on Russia over its actions in Ukraine. Meeting in Brussels, they issued a joint statement condemning Moscow for its “continuing violation” of Ukraine’s sovereignty. G7 leaders are looking to resolve the biggest crisis in years between Russia and the West. Jun 2: India’s 29th State The new Indian state of Telangana has been created by splitting off the under-developed, agricultural northern area of Andhra Pradesh following a 50-year campaign for separate status. Telangana has a population of 35 million and includes the city of Hyderabad. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi party will form the first state government. JUNE 2014

around town

Charities and Organisations

Central Tibetan Administration

The CTA serves in Dharamshala as the government in exile of Tibet. It is democratic with judiciary, legislative, and executive branches. Within the Executive branch there is the Kashag, consisting of the departments of Religion and Culture, Home, Education, Finance, Security, Information and International Relations and Health, and Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay. WEB: www.tibet.net LOCATION: Dharamshala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-222218 HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:00 am-5:00 pm EMAIL: kashag@tibet.net

The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama (OHHDL)

OHHDL is the personal office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The office organises his schedule, including appointments and travel plans, diplomatic and personal correspondence, and liaises with officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. When His Holiness is in Dharamshala, his schedule includes daily religious practice and studies, meeting with private audiences, and congregating with the Tibetan Kashag and senior Tibetan governmental officials. WEB: www.dalailama.com LOCATION: Thekchen Choeling, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221343 / 221210 EMAIL: ohhdl@dalailama.com

Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC)

The TYC is an advocacy and political action organisation with chapters around the world. The Tibetan Youth Congress organises cultural exhibitions, educational campaigns and social welfare activities. The organisation publishes a series of periodicals and magazines on the Tibetan cause. WEB: www. tibetanyouthcongress.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-221554 EMAIL:president@tibetanyouthcongress.org, tyc@tibetanyouthcongress.org

Tibetan Women’s Association (TWA)

The TWA conducts workshops on gender sensitization and domestic violence throughout Tibetan settlements in India, provides Tibetan women with education scholarships, and connects women with international sponsors. WEB: www. tibetanwomen.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala – 176219 PHONE: 01892-221527 EMAIL: tibwomen@gmail.com

Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV)

TCV provides care to Tibetan children by creating a nurturing environment and fostering Tibetan values and culture while delivering a modern education. There is an Upper and Lower residential school in Dharamshala and day school in McLeod Ganj, with other branches throughout India. WEB: www.tcv.org.in LOCATION: Dharamshala Cantt.176216 PHONE: 01892-221354 / 221348 EMAIL: headoffice@tcv.org.in

Contact

Men-Tsee-Khang: Tibetan Medical & Astro. Institute

Men-Tsee-Khang is a facility for research, training and practice of traditional Tibetan medicine. Patients may seek treatment at Men-TseeKhang for both acute and chronic conditions. The facility provides extensive training and produces traditional pharmaceuticals. WEB: www.men-tsee-khang.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala – 176215 PHONE: 01892-223222 EMAIL: tmai@men-tsee-khang.org

Tibetan Library (LTWA) (Centre for Tibetan Studies)

The Library of Tibetan Works and Archives has the purpose to restore, protect, preserve, and promote Tibetan culture in all its aspects. They offer courses in Tibetan and Hindi language and Buddhist philosophy and can provide affordable accommodation for those enrolled in two or more courses. WEB: ltwa.net, tibetanlibrary.org LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong Dharamshala - 176215 PHONE: 98822-55047 EMAIL: ltwa1970@gmail.com

Delek Hospital

Delek Hospital is a small, Tibetan run hospital in Dharamshala. It has 45 inpatient beds, holds outpatient hours from 9am to 12pm Monday through Friday, and can handle most small procedures. Patients are responsible for a 10 Rupees registration fee, although this is waived for those who fall under the poverty line. The hospital has a pharmacy on site. WEB:www.delekhospital.org LOCATION: Kharadanda Rd, Dharamshala 176215; Delek Clinic, Bhagsu Rd,Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-222053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient, Mon-Fri: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00 pm-4:30 pm; Emergencies, 24 hours daily EMAIL: delek@sancharnet.in

Sambhota Tibetan Schools Society

The society was established in 1999 to provide educational and administrative guidance to all Tibetan schools in remote areas of India and Bhutan that do not fall under the guidance of Tibetan Childrens Village. Today there are 12 schools under this organisation. WEB: www.sambhota.org LOCATION: Session Rd, Dharamshala176215 PHONE: 01892 - 228877 | 226877 EMAIL: stss1999@gmail.com

Tong-Len Charitable Trust

Tong-Len’s mission is to help displaced communities in North India achieve a secure and sustainable future. Tong-Len projects include educational and health programs, childhood education and sponsorship, primary and nursery tent schools, and children’s support hostels. Volunteer opportunities available. WEB: www. tong-len.org LOCATION: Top Floor, Bank Of Baroda, Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala-176215 PHONE: 01892-223113 / 223930 EMAIL: jamyang@tong-len.org

Students for a Free Tibet (SFT)

SFT is an international ngo that promotes the Tibetan cause among the non-Tibetan community. The organisation attempts to build international solidarity by advocating for a free Tibet through chapter organisations at Universities around the world. WEB:www.sftindia.org, www.studentsforafreetibet.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-220589 !

Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD)

TCHRD advocates for human rights and provides education on the human rights situation in Tibet. The centre publishes journals and articles, as well as conducts workshops and campaigns. WEB: www.tchrd.org LOCATION: CTA, Dharamshala - 176215 PHONE: 01892-223363 EMAIL: office@tchrd.org

Lha Charitable Trust (Lha)

Lha, a Tibetan grassroots ngo based in Dharamshala, is one of the largest social work organisations providing vital resources for Tibetan refugees, the local Indian population, and people from the Himalayan regions. Lha offers free English, French and Chinese classes, cultural exchange programs, IT classes, vocational training, health and environmental awareness education, distribution of clothes and medicine, a community kitchen, and many other programs and activities. (see page 2) WEB:www.lhasocialwork.org LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 01892-220992 EMAIL: office@lhasocialwork.org

The Kangra Distt. Red Cross Society

The Kangra District Red Cross Society renders its humanitarian services, projects and activities with the help and the co-operation of people at all levels of society by donation. WEB: www.redcrosskangra.org LOCATION: Red Cross Bhawan, Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-224888 / 9418832244 EMAIL: sharmaopl12345@gmail.com

Gu-Chu-Sum Movement of Tibet

Gu-Chu-Sum is a social service organisation that provides financial and medical support for ex-political prisoners and political activists from Tibet. WEB: www.guchusum.org LOCATION: Jogibara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala -176219 PHONE: 01892-220680 / 220679 EMAIL: guchusum1991@gmail.com

Tibet Charity

Tibet Charity provides programs including English and computer classes, an animal care program, and a variety of medical and educational financial support programs. WEB: www.tibetcharity.in LOCATION: Temple Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 01892-221790 / 221877 EMAIL:mail@tibetcharity.in tibccharity@gmail.com

JUNE 2014

around town

Charities and Organisations

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)

Established in 1959, under the vision of HH the Dalai Lama, TIPA strives to preserve and promote Tibetan theatrical tradition. The insitute imparts comprehensive training and lesson on Tibetan folk dance, folk song, traditional instruments and tradition of Tibetan opera. TIPA also hosts a beautiful theatrical museum which remains open during working days. We organise a special group tour of our campus every Wednesday (10 am). WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: TIPA Road, McLeod Ganj Dharamshala-176219 PHONE: 01892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT)

Learning and Ideas for Tibet (LIT) is a nongovernment, non-profit adult education centre in Dharamshala, North India. LIT provides Free Education, Health Care and Skills Training to Tibetan Refugees to help eradicate poverty and illiteracy amongst the Tibetan population. WEB: www.learningandideasfortibet.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219 PHONE: 01892-220690 EMAIL: learningandideasfortibet@gmail.com

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR)

Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution is a nonprofit, educational organisation dedicated to the non-violent management of conflicts in the Tibetan Community and the world as a whole. They work to promote the approaches and tools of non-violent conflict resolution and democratic processes in the Tibetan community in exile and elsewhere. WEB: http://tccr.org LOCATION: Session Road, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamshala 176215 PHONE: 01892-226627 EMAIL: tccrteam@gmail.com

Rogpa Baby Care Centre

The Rogpa Baby Care Centre helps low-income Tibetan families to become self-sufficient by providing free child care for infants so their parents can work. The centre needs volunteers to help with art, games, singing and other tasks including diaper changing. WEB: www.tibetrogpa.org LOCATION: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala- 176219 PHONE: 9816659549 EMAIL: rogpa2004@yahoo.com

Gamru Village School

Gamru Village School is a successful NGO that provides free high-quality education to any children who encounter serious barriers to education and who have a low standard of living. WEB: www.gamruschool.com LOCATION: Village Gamru, P.O Kotwali Bazaar, Dharamshala, Distt Kangra 176215 PHONE: 9816105554 EMAIL: tashu72004@yahoo.com

Clean Upper Dharamshala Project

Founded in 1994 to provide a waste management system in and around McLeod Ganj, the Green Workers, the Handmade Recycled Paper Factory, the Green Shop and the Environmental Education Center are part of the Clean Upper Daramsala Project. Weekly guided tours are offered on Wednesdays at 3 pm. WEB: www.tsodhasa.org LOCATION: Bhagsu Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala - 176219 PHONE: 01892-221059 EMAIL: office@tsodhasa.org

ANEC facilitates trainings, workshops and open forum discussions on nonviolent strategies to help resolve disagreements and differences at all levels of human society. ANEC welcomes volunteers from western countries to participate in informal panel discussions on ideas of regional and global peace and nonviolent strategies. Free lunch and tea for volunteers. LOCATION: No. 262, 1st floor, Khajanchi -Mohalla, Khunyara Rd, Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 98051-47048 / 94180-94476 EMAIL: tcsamkhar@gmail.com, Facebook: Anec Peace

Nyingtob Ling (Realm of Courage)

National Democratic Party of Tibet

Nyingtob Ling supports Tibetan children from disadvantaged families. The children make handicrafts and paintings. They are so friendly and love to have visitors. WEB: www.nyingtobling.org LOCATION: Near Norbulingka, Sidhpur PHONE:01892 211042 / 9816028149 EMAIL: nyingtob_ling@hotmail.com

Women’s Team

Volunteers needed to teach English to Indian women and children in the village of Kaniyara near Dharamshala. Contact Jitender. EMAIL: jitenderje@gmail.com PHONE: 9817105035 / 08894435595

The NDPT is currently the only Tibetan political party. With 5000 members in 36 regional chapters throughout the world, the main aim and objectives of the NDPT are to prepare for the establishment of a political party in a future Tibet, to promote democracy, to educate the Tibetan people about the significance of political parties and to create awareness among the people about Tibetan issues. WEB: www.ndp4tibet.org LOCATION: Dharamshala–176219 EMAIL: tibetparty4@gmail.com PHONE: 9882787633 / 9882673330

BUS SCHEDULE * Times and prices may vary. Please check with the bus stand ahead of departure. Leaving from the McLeod Ganj bus stand, unless otherwise stated: Delhi: Ordinary Bus: 4:45am, 6pm, 6:45pm, 8:15pm and 8:30pm (Rs524) Semi Deluxe Bus: 6pm (Rs544) , Full Deluxe Bus: (Rs683) AC Volvo Semi-Sleeper: 8pm (Rs1121) AC TATA: 4pm (Rs830) Amritsar: Ordinary Bus: 5am (Rs223) *from Dharamshala Dehradun: Ordinary Bus: 8pm (Rs524); AC Deluxe: 2pm (Rs664) Manali: Ordinary Bus: 7:10am (Rs676) *from Dharamshala Pathankot: Ordinary Bus: 10am, 11am, 12:10pm, 12:30pm, 2:10pm, 3:50pm, 5pm(Rs150) Shimla: Ordinary Bus: 5am, 5:30am, 6am, 8am, noon and 4:55pm (Rs360) *from Dharamshala, Semi-Deluxe Bus: 8:22am, 7:45pm and 9:30pm (Rs450) *from Dharamshala FOR BOOKINGS: Location: Ticket stand under McLLo’s, McLeod Ganj Main square Hours: 10am-5pm, daily Phone: 220026 (McLeod bus stand), 224903 (Dharamshala) For deluxe buses, book through any travel agency.

TAXIS

A private taxi to Lower Dharamshala will cost you Rs 200. Cram into a jeep (from the bus stand), and it’ll only cost you Rs15.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Ambulance: 01892-102, 222189

Police Superintendent: 01892-222244

Tibetan Delek Hospital Location: Gangchen Kyishong, CTA Hours: Outpatient services: 9am-1pm, MonSat; Specialist clinics: 2-4:30pm, Wed only; Emergencies: 24-hrs, daily. Phone: 222 053,223 381

Police Contact Information Location: Past St.John’s Church on the road to Dharamshala in Cantt. area. Phone: 221 483

Kangra Airport: 01892-232374 Bhagsu Taxi Union: 01892-221034 Tourism Office: 01892-224430 , 223325 Rail Booking & Enquiry: 01892-265026

Contact

The Active Nonviolence Education Center (ANEC)

McLeod Ganj Post Office Location: Jogiwara Rd, past Peace Cafe Hours: 9:30am-1pm and 2-5pm, Mon-Fri; 9:30am-noon, Sat. Parcels and money orders can be sent in the mornings only. Phone: 01892-221 924

JUNE 2014

activities and tourist info Upcoming Events

MEDITATION

Jul 3-14: 33rd Kalachakra Kalachakra initiation by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Leh, Ladakh. For more information, visit - ladakhkalachakra2014.com

Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre

Jul 6: Birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama Jul 31: Choekhor Duechen Buddha Shakyamuni’s first teaching Aug 15: Independence Day of India

BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY Library of Tibetan Works & Archives WEB: www.ltwa.net/library LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9-10 am, 11-12noon PHONE: 921-842-2467

Public Audience with HH Karmapa WEB: www.kagyuoffice.org LOCATION: Sidhpur HOURS: Wed & Sat: 2:30pm PHONE: 01892-235307

YOGA & REIKI Om Yoga, Meditation & Reiki Centre LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, behind Akash Hotel, on Jogiwara Rd - Map #11 HOURS: 8:00am-5:30pm PHONE: 980-569-3514

Sunita Singh Yoga Class

LOCATION: Singh Corner, nr Magic Tree Upper Bhagsu (see ad on pg 19) PHONE: 9805889060 WEB: www.maashakktiyoga.com

MASSAGE Lotus Healing Touch

LOCATION: Mcleod Ganj PHONE: 86791-64778 EMAIL: Lotus_healingtouch@hotmail.com House call treatment offered as well!

Nature Cure Health Club

Shiatsu massage LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

WEB: www.omyogaindia.com LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 980-569-3514 EMAIL: om.yoga@ymail.com

Tushita Meditation Center WEB: www.tushita.info LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 9:30-11:30am PHONE: 0898-816-0988 EMAIL: spc@tushita.info

Vipassana Meditation

WEB: www.sikhara.dhamma.org LOCATION: Dharamkot HOURS: Mon-Sat: 4:00-5:00pm PHONE: 01892-21309 EMAIL: info@sikhara.dhamma.org

Rishi Yoga & Meditation Center WEB: www.rishiyogaindia.com LOCATION: Tokyo House, Mcleod Ganj PHONE: 09816565138 EMAIL: yogi_shivam@yahoo.co.in

School of Life and Spirituality

Meditation and teachers’ training LOCATION: behind Hotel Akashdeep, Bhagsu, Mcleod Ganj, please call before coming WEB: www.devom.org PHONE: 09569221047, 09971608310 EMAIL: dev@devom.org

COOKING Indian Cooking and Knitting with Ms. Rita Kapoor LOCATION: Old German Bakery, 1st Floor, Room No. 2, Opp. Buddha Hall, Bhagsunag PHONE: 94592 06586

Lha Tibetan Cooking School LOCATION: Lha Office, Temple Rd HOURS: Registration, 9:00-11:00am PHONE: 01892-20992

Indian Cooking Classes

LOCATION:Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guesthouse HOURS: 10:00am-6:00pm PHONE: 941-813-0119 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Lhamo’s Kitchen: Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Bhagsu Rd, near the Green Shop HOURS: 8:00am-9:00pm PHONE: 981-646-8719

Synergy Ayuredic Massage Center

Nisha’s Indian Cooking Class

Traditional Thai Massage

Sangye’s Kitchen: Traditional Tibetan Cooking Classes

LOCATION: Near Tibetan Ashoka, Jogiwara Road PHONE: 941 80 8488 EMAIL: mcleodganj@gmail.com

LOCATION: Opposite the Himachal Govt. Tourist Information Centre, Hotel Surya Rd PHONE: 981-633-9199 EMAIL: jite02@yahoo.com jitthimalaya@gmail.com

Contact

LOCATION: Hotel Lotus Leaf, Jogiwara Rd HOURS: 4:00-6:00pm EMAIL: nisha@indiancookingcourse.com

LOCATION: Lung-ta Restaurant, below the Tashi Choeling Monastery on Jogiwara Road HOURS:10:00am - 4:00pm PHONE: 981-616-4540 EMAIL: sangyla_tashi@yahoo.co.in

LANGUAGES Tibetan Language Courses

WEB: www.thosamling.com LOCATION: Thosamling Institute, Sidhpur (near Norbulingka) HOURS: 4 hours/day PHONE: 9882455065 EMAIL: thosamling@gmail.com

Rita Thakur Hindi Classes

LOCATION: Ketan Lodge, Jogiwara Rd, beside the Korean Restaurant PHONE: 981-649-4732

Hindi Lessons with Sunil

LOCATION: Kunga Guesthouse, Bhagsu Rd and in Dharamkot PHONE: 01892-21942, 941-818-7281 EMAIL: sunilsharma81in@yahoo.co.in

Tibetan Language

LOCATION: The Tibetan Library See Buddhist Philosophy Listing

Hindi Lessons with Kailash

LOCATION: At Bhimsen’s Indian Cooking Class PHONE: 01892-20063, 941-816-1947 HOURS: Daily, 4:00-6:00pm

Tibetan with Pema Youdon

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, opposite post office HOURS: 1:00-4:00pm, or leave a message.

Esukhia Online Tibetan Courses and Tibetan Immersion Spoken Location:Tilak Ray Building, Bhagsu Rd WEB: www.esukhia.org PHONE: 8679502538 / 9882004965 EMAIL: contact@esukhia.org

ART & MUSeums Tibet Museum

LOCATION:Near the Main Temple and the Namgyal Monastery gate, McLeod Ganj HOURS: Tue-Sun: 9:00am-5:00pm

Tibet Photo Exhibit: 50 Years of Struggle and Oppression

LOCATION: Gu-Chu-Sum hall on Jogiwara Rd, next to the Lung-ta Japanese Restaurant HOURS: Mon, Wed & Fri: 2:00pm-5:00pm

The Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (TIPA)

WEB: www.tibetanarts.org LOCATION: Tipa Road, McLeod Ganj PHONE: 1892-221478 EMAIL: tibetanarts2012@gmail.com

Kangra Art Museum

LOCATION: Near Bus Stand, Kotwali Bazaar PHONE: 01892 224214 HOURS: Tue-Sun: 10:00am-1:00pm & 2:00pm-5:00pm

Naam Art Gallery

LOCATION: Main Road Sidhbari Dharamshala PHONE: 9816043708

Form Gallery

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd. near Oasis Cafe PHONE: 8894-060602 HOURS: Daily, 12:00pm-6:00pm

JUNE 2014

activities HEALTH SERVICES

Reflections of a Volunteer: Finding it all in McLeod Ganj

Perfect 32 Dental Clinic Dr Natasha Mehra

LOCATION: Near Hotel Mount View, Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala PHONE: 09218742046 EMAIL: perfect32dentalclinic@gmail.com

Dr Sant Marwah Clinic

LOCATION: In front of Main Temple, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm, Closed Monday PHONE: 01892-21106, 981-602-1106 EMAIL: smarwahin@yahoo.com

Dr Kumar Ayurvedic and Panchkarma WEB: www.kumarayurveda.com LOCATION: Hotel Surya Rd., opposite the the Club House HOURS: 9:00am-2:00pm & 2:30-7:00pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily PHONE: 8894492837 EMAIL: SATINDER3737@gmail.com

Maanav Health Clinic

LOCATION: Main Square HOURS: 10:00am-12:30pm and 2:00-5:00pm PHONE: 941-815-5795 EMAIL: maanavcare@yahoo.co.in

Men-Tsee-Khang

LOCATION: Between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-226138 / 223113 EMAIL: info@mentsekhang.org

Primary Health Centre

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, main market HOURS: 9:30am-4pm, Mon-Sat

Nature Cure Health Club

LOCATION: Jogiwara Rd, next to Tibetan Ashoka Guest House-Map #10 HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm PHONE: : 94181-30119 / 97363-33888 EMAIL: mahinder_m@hotmail.com

Tibetan Delek Hospital

LOCATION: Gangchen Kyishong, between McLeod Ganj and Lower Dharamshala PHONE: 01892-22053 / 223381 HOURS: Outpatient services, Mon-Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm; Specialist clinics, Mon-Sat: 2:00-4:30pm; Emergencies: 24 hrs daily

& News

Name: Ludovico Tallarita Jobs at Lha: English Advanced and Intermediate class teacher It would be impossible to do justice to the kaleidoscope of cultures and beliefs that one finds upon arrival in McLeod Ganj. So where to begin? The cornerstone of my time in Dharamshala has been teaching the English advanced class at Lha. Being stopped in the street by students and addressed as “Sir,” I’ve gradually learned to identify myself with my role as a teacher. The classroom environment here differs significantly from that of the West (and not just because there are scattered cushions taking the place of desks and chairs). For example, the motivations that bring students to class are radically different: students join Lha classes because they have realised the intrinsic power of education, and know they can use foreign language skills to shape their future for the better. For that reason, all the students I have encountered - Tibetans, Indians, Nepali, Bhutanese, Japanese, Thai, Mongolians - were not only determined to learn, but also extremely grateful. They took every chance to demonstrate their feelings – sometimes in the form

of a handshake at the end of class, sometimes a whispered, heartfelt, “thank you”. Outside of the classroom, the volunteer suddenly switches from being a teacher to a student – a most humbling experience. This community is a truly vibrant hub of international cultures from which you can learn. It is small enough that you can become familiar with its people but diverse enough that you’ll never be bored. Whether you are interested in learning about Tibet’s socio-political issues, Buddhist principles or Yoga practices, you can find it all in McLeod Ganj. Over the last months I have found myself in a host of these different situations, from drinking tea with monks to spending sleepless nights watching football with sports fanatics. During the weekends you can hire a taxi - or better still rent a motorbike - and drive to any of the nearby gems hidden throughout the Himalayan ranges. Should you visit a magnificent fort where Alexander the Great spent the night? Paraglide off the top of a mountain? Enjoy the placid Pongdam Lake? The choice is yours.

THOSAMLING’s Tibetan Language Program 2014 MODULE 1 Beginner Course 4 Aug – 24 Oct 5 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day. Start with the alphabet and learn to read and write basic Tibetan in two weeks. Audio and video materials help students progress as quickly as possible.

MODULE 2 Intermediate Course 27 Oct – 19 Dec 5 days/week, total 4.5hrs/day.

Main focus is on colloquial Tibetan and first stages of developing literary Tibetan skills using simple texts. Private time with teachers is available.

MODULE 3 Dharma Language Course 4 Aug – 26 Sept 5 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day.

Main focus is on literary/colloquial Tibetan. We work with audio materials, transcripts and translations of oral teachings and their root texts to deepen understandings.

T he cour ses are free for Sangha.

MODULE 4 Introduction to Debate 13 Oct – 19 Dec 5 days/week, total 2.5hrs/day & afternoon debate sessions.

Debate opens many doors to the Dharma and sharpens the mind. Re g ist fo r a ll cratio n our is op e n se s !

For a minimum of five people coming from McLeod Ganj: inexpensive daily transport can be arranged.

THOSAMLING INSTITUTE For International Buddhist Women

thosamling@gmail.com • www.thosamling.com • Sidhpur • 176057 Dharamsala • mob 9882455065 Contact

JUNE 2014

news and issues

Lha Receives Tulane University Student Group Jigme Thinley from Lha who gave a presentation about our organisation and the projects undertaken by Lha. The students attended lectures by a variety of speakers and visited the Central Tibetan Administration, Norbulingka,Tibetan library and tourist venues around Dharamshala. The Tulane students were partnered with Lha students so they could learn from each other. The university students learned from their partners about the local Tibetan culture, The group with their Lha learning parters at the farewell dinner while the Lha Photo: Lha students benefited local Indian community. On arrival, from the chance to improve their the group was welcomed by Mr English language skills by working Lha hosted a student exchange group from Tulane University, USA, during the month of June. The group of 18 students, led by Mr Michael and his team of tutors, were here for three weeks to explore and learn about the Tibetan community in exile and the

with their American partners. On the final evening on June 26, Lha hosted a farewell dinner for all the students - both the Tulane students and their Lha learning partners. As a token of gratitude, the staff at Lha offered each of the visitors a white scarf and a small memento. On behalf of Lha, our General Secretary Ms Dukthen Kyi expressed our appreciation to the student group for taking part in our students exchange program and for their enthusiastic support.

A presentation at Ahimsa House Photo: Lha

Tibet-Related Websites

News: tibet.net - official website of the Central Tibetan Administration in exile rfa.org/english/news/tibet - Radio Free Asia’s mission is to provide accurate and timely news and information to Asian countries whose governments prohibit access to a free press voatibetanenglish.com - Voice of America’s Tibet pages - VOA is an international multimedia broadcasting service funded by the US government contactmagazine.net - Contact magazine online phayul.com - news on Tibetan issues guardian.co.uk/world/tibet - the UK Guardian newspaper’s Tibet pages scmp.com/news/china - the South China Morning Post – one of the more independent news sources in China Campaigning: tchrd.org - Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy - a nongovernment organisation and a research centre to protect the human rights of Tibetan people and promote the principles of democracy tibetanyouthcongress.org - an international non-government organisation that advocates full independence for Tibet from China studentsforafreetibet.org - a global grass roots group campaigning for full Tibetan independence savetibet.org - international campaign for Tibet and a good resource for news, campaigns, fundraising and projects tibetnetwork.org/home - a coalition of more than 190 Tibet organisations dedicated to campaigning to end human rights violations in Tibet and restoring rights to the Tibetan people Writings: highpeakspureearth.com/category/woeser - occasional translations of Woeser’s enormously popular blog – Woeser lives in Beijing and is continually harassed by the Chinese government for her courageous writings. Contact

JUNE 2014