The Tibetan people are grateful for the place they hold in the hearts and minds of so many benevolent people throughout the world. Were it not for our community in exile, so generously supported by individuals, organizations, and governments in the world community, our nation would be little more than a shattered remnant of a people . . . our culture, religion, and national identity effectively eliminated.
Today, our struggle for survival and self-determination continues as we work to modernize our social and political institutions, while preserving the spiritual heart of our culture. To survive, Tibet needs the compassion of the world community. However, we cannot hope through mere words to convince the world of Tibet’s value. We must set an example by our own practice. Our democratic institutions define and preserve our society as one of compassion, non-violence and justice. Our communities model self-help and self-determination.
