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Conversation with Tenzin Tsedub Lodoe La

Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In this episode Tenzin Tsedub Lodoe la shares his inspiring journey as a Tibetan based in USA. He currently is the national coordinator of Voluntary Tibet Advocacy Group (V-TAG) USA and also a co-founder of Bodja Podcast which has been coming out amazing podcast of Tibetans from all walks of life in English.

Being a participant of the both the 2023 and 2024 International Tibet Youth Forum (ITYF) he shares us how relevant and important this annual forum is and it a hub to him where Tibetan youth from different countries come together to learn and then advocate for Tibet. Similarly being in the USA he spotlights the Tibet Lobby Day and how he has been taking part of it since his high school days, with it being central in pushing forth Tibetan related polices and resolutions in USA. 

He further highlights how advocacy in the USA by Tibetans contributed to the historic signing of the Resolve Tibet Act by US President Joe Biden led by the International Campaign for Tibet and Office of Tibet. He currently interns at Harvard’s Leadership & Happiness Laboratory and narrates to us about his heartfelt speech at His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 89th birthday in Dharamshala, India. He finally shares us messages from Tibetans in occupied Tibet and calls upon all Tibetans to embody the spirit of the Dalai Lama in spreading love and peace.

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Conversation with Tsering Kyizom La
Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In this episode Tsering Kyizom la shares with us the transformative power of education and her unwavering dedication to empowering others. Through her various social media platforms, including her YouTube channel, Learn English with Kyizom, she has connected with a plethora of individuals seeking to improve their English skills. Her reach extends beyond borders, as she tirelessly imparts knowledge to monks, nuns, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, both virtually and in person. Her commitment to making education accessible is evident in her use of Facebook and Instagram, where she shares valuable resources and engages with her audience, breaking down barriers to learning.

In her most recent endeavour she had founded ‘Anyog Gaga,’ demonstrating her visionary approach to education, particularly in empowering Tibetan children. Through vibrant educational resources, she seeks to ignite a passion for learning and preserving the Tibetan culture and language. Her journey is motivated by a profound sense of purpose and a deep connection to her roots, as she strives to create opportunities for Tibetan children to thrive in an ever-changing world.

As she reflects on her path into the field of teaching, she draws inspiration from the resilience and determination of her community. Her aspirations for the future are grounded in a commitment to continue breaking down barriers and bridging gaps in education even for Tibetans inside Tibet. Through the virtual realm, she has found a powerful means of connection, transcending geographical boundaries to empower individuals on their educational journey. Tsering Kyizom’s story is a testament to the profound impact one person can have in shaping the futures of others, we wish her well in her future endeavours.

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Conversation with Tenzin Pema La
Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In this episode Tenzin Pema la shares with us her journey from a young girl growing up in the Himalayas and how drawing inspiration from the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali she embarked on a remarkable journey into the realm of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). During which she has won several medals representing India, the land of her birth.

In a recent demonstration of courage and determination, she prominently unfurled the Tibetan national flag at the Matrix Fight Night (MFN) 14 in Noida, India, drawing the admiration of thousands of Tibetan supporters who were there to support her in person. As she prepares for her upcoming bouts in the months ahead, we earnestly urge Tibetans and stakeholders alike to rally behind her endeavors.

Her journey is emblematic of resilience, highlighted by the daily trials she faces and the unwavering commitment to her rigorous training regimen, which serves as the cornerstone of her pursuit of excellence in the realm of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Beyond personal achievement, she vocalizes a profound aspiration: to not only represent the Tibetan community on the global stage but also to serve as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment. Through her participation in MMA and her determination to excel, she seeks to contribute meaningfully to the advancement and upliftment of her fellow Tibetans.
Moreover, she envisions leveraging her expertise to establish comprehensive training programs, fostering a new generation of skilled athletes and instilling values of discipline and perseverance within the Tibetan community.

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Conversation with Dr. Dickey Choedon La
Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In this episode Dr. Dickey Choedon la shares her meticulous research paper titled “Changing
Legal Identity: Tibetans View on Indian Citizenship”. She illuminates the profound paradigm
shift occurring within the Tibetan diaspora—a surge in applications for Indian citizenship
and the legal acquisition of Indian passports. With astute analysis, she delves into the
multifaceted realities confronting Tibetans in exile, deftly navigating the intricate web of
geopolitical complexities and socioeconomic imperatives that underscore their decisions.
Drawing from a rich tapestry of first-hand experiences and insightful interviews with
individuals from the Tibetan community, Dickey Choedon meticulously examines the
motivations and rationales driving this significant trend. Through the lens of her own
personal encounters and the poignant anecdotes shared by her interviewees, she unveils
the nuanced considerations shaping the trajectory of Tibetan identity in the contemporary
global landscape.

Dickey Choedon’s question on the continuity and cohesion within the Tibetan freedom
movement—a movement historically anchored in the steadfast preservation of Tibetan
culture, heritage, and autonomy, against the backdrop of burgeoning applications for Indian
citizenship. She calls upon more research into this topic especially in terms of the potential
ramifications on the unity and direction of their struggle for self-determination.

Dickey Choedon’s scholarly endeavour transcends mere academic inquiry, offering profound
insights that resonate deeply with policymakers, scholars, and stakeholders invested in the
Tibetan cause. By elucidating the complexities inherent in the evolving dynamics of Tibetan
legal identity, she contributes invaluable perspectives to the ongoing discourse surrounding
exile communities, citizenship, and the pursuit of justice in an increasingly interconnected
world.

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In an insightful conversation on the Unsilenced: Voices of Young Tibetans podcast series, we had the privilege to speak with Thupten Rinzin la. He was the then Coordinator of the India Tibet Coordination Office and shares his personal journey, experiences and future aspirations. Revealing the answer to the big question which we all ask and that is of how does one become a Civil Servant at the Central Tibetan Administration also known as the Tibetan
Government in Exile?

Thupten Rinzin provides a comprehensive account of his journey within the Central Tibetan Administration also known at the Tibetan Government-in-Exile since his induction in 2014, illuminating various avenues for involvement in civil service within it. Serving as the former Coordinator of the India Tibet Coordination Office, headquartered in New Delhi, he delves into the strategic initiatives devised to bolster support networks for Tibetans residing in India,
with a special emphasis on empowering the younger generation through targeted engagement programs.

Drawing from personal experience, Thupten Rinzin reflects on the transformative impact of the Tibetan Scholarship Program, an initiative spearheaded by the US government in collaboration with the Tibet Fund. As a beneficiary of this program, which facilitates the pursuit of higher education in the United States for Tibetan refugees, he highlights its
profound contribution to the holistic development of the Tibetan diaspora.

Despite transitioning from his role as Coordinator, Thupten Rinzin’s enduring commitment to the Central Tibetan Administration remains palpable. His ongoing efforts serve as a testament to the unwavering dedication towards advancing the interests of the Tibetan community and cultivating mutually beneficial partnerships for its sustained growth and prosperity.

Disclaimer: This session was recorded during Thupten Rinzin’s tenure as the Coordinator of the India Tibet Coordination Office. While he currently serves in the Social and Resource Development Fund (SARD) of the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala, his insights remain valuable.

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With Claude Arpi                                             
 
The Fault Lines is a series by FNVA that discuss developments occurring on our Indian
frontiers. Engaging extensively with the Universities on these regions and bringing them to
the fore.

The episode of the Fault Lines unfolds a riveting exploration into the historical context of the
Sino-Indian boundary, with a particular focus on the Ladakh sector. Claude Arpi, an
esteemed author, Tibet expert, Advisor at FNVA, and Director of the Pavilion of Tibetan
Culture at Auroville, takes center stage as he delves into the intricacies of the region.
Moderated by Professor Sonam Joldan from the University of Ladakh, the episode serves as
a crucial discourse addressed to the academic community, shedding light on the nuanced
dynamics of the Sino-Indian boundary.

The session is divided into two parts on our YouTube handle.

Part 1: Historical Background and Significance of Ladakh in the India-China Boundary: In the
initial part of the episode, Claude Arpi provides a comprehensive overview of the historical
background and significance of Ladakh in the context of the India-China boundary.
Previously part of the India-Tibet border, Ladakh holds a pivotal position in the geopolitical
landscape. Arpi, skillfully navigates through the historical developments, tracing the
evolution of the boundary and setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the Ladakh
sector.

Part 2: Tibet and Tibetans in the Ladakh Sector – Recent Developments and the Dalai Lama’s
Central Role: The second part of Claude Arpi’s discourse delves into the role of Tibet and
Tibetans in the Ladakh sector of the Indian border. He sheds light on recent developments
in the region, unravelling the intricate connections between the current geopolitical
scenario and the erstwhile independent Tibet. He emphasizes the central role played by the
Dalai Lama in this region, adding a layer of complexity to the dynamics between Ladakh,
Tibet, and contemporary China.

Some Key Highlights from this episode:
1. Historical Evolution: He skillfully traces the historical evolution of Ladakh’s
significance in the India-China boundary, offering a nuanced perspective on the
region’s geopolitical importance.

2. Ladakh’s Transition: The discourse unveils Ladakh’s transition from being the India-
Tibet border to its current status in the India-China boundary, providing insights into
the changing dynamics of the region.

3. Tibet’s Influence: He elucidates the role of Tibet and Tibetans in the Ladakh sector,
connecting the historical threads to contemporary developments and highlighting
the enduring influence of Tibet on the region.

4. Dalai Lama’s Central Role: The episode underscores the central role of the Dalai
Lama in shaping the dynamics of the Ladakh sector, emphasizing his continued
significance in the context of the evolving Sino-Indian boundary.

Claude Arpi’s insightful discourse in “The Fault Lines” second episode not only enriches our
understanding of the historical background and significance of Ladakh but also brings to the
forefront the intricate connections between Ladakh, Tibet, and the contemporary
geopolitical landscape. The report encapsulates the multi-faceted dimensions explored by
Arpi, providing a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and enthusiasts seeking a
deeper comprehension of the fault lines in the Sino-Indian boundary, particularly in the
Ladakh sector.

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Conversation with Tenzin Passang La
Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In a compelling and enlightening podcast episode, we delved into the world of Tenzin
Passang, a young Tibetan women who currently is the India National Director of Students
for a Free Tibet.

Tenzin Passang passionately unfolded the genesis of Students for a Free Tibet, a globally
recognized Tibet Support Group. She shed light on the driving forces that led her to become
an integral part of this organization, emphasizing the commitment to advocating for the
rights and freedom of the Tibetan people living under occupation.

A focal point of the conversation was the critical role that SFT plays in countering the
misleading narratives propagated by Beijing concerning Tibet. She highlighted the various
initiatives orchestrated by SFT to raise awareness and provide the Tibetan perspective on
the situation in Tibet. This underscores the organization’s dedication to fostering a
comprehensive understanding of the Tibetan struggle for freedom.

The conversation delved into the specific initiatives undertaken by Students for a Free Tibet.
She elucidated on the multifaceted approaches employed by the organization to challenge
the status quo, emphasizing the importance of a proactive stance in addressing the complex
circumstances faced by Tibet.

A poignant glimpse into her personal journey unfolded as she recounted her time at
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The profound impact of her experiences at JNU on her
perspective and activism became evident, underscoring the transformative power of
education and intellectual discourse in shaping individuals committed to social justice.

A particularly inspiring segment of the episode focused on her triumphant battle against
cancer. Her resilience and determination served as a testament to the strength of the
human spirit. Additionally, she shared the unwavering support she received from her family
and friends, illustrating the importance of a robust support system in overcoming adversity.

In summary, this podcast episode serves as a powerful narrative of courage, activism, and
personal triumph. It not only captures the essence of Students for a Free Tibet but also
provides a compelling insight into the life and journey of Tenzin Passang.

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Conversation with Tenzin Shinyi La

Hosted by Tenzing Dhamdul, FNVA

In a heartfelt and enlightening conversation on the Unsilenced: Voices of Young Tibetans podcast series, we had the privilege to speak with Tenzin Shinyi la. A young Tibetan woman who shares her personal journey, experiences and future aspirations. 

Born in India and grown up in Tibet, Shinyi la’s life has been marked by cultural transitions, challenges and with a profound connection to her Tibetan heritage which she proudly dons and treasures it close to her heart. Her insights shed light on the complexities of identity, education and the resilience of Tibetans both in occupied Tibet, the diaspora and in exile.

She further shares her contrasting experiences of schooling and learning in higher academia from her Chinese schools in Chengdu to Tibetan Schools and Institutions she has and currently studies at in India. “As an outcome of discrimination, I was forced to try every method possible to look like a Chinese, to speak like a Chinese, to dress like a Chinese and even think like a Chinese – just to be accepted” says Tenzin Shinyi on the severe level of discrimination a Tibetan experience in Chengdu. All of which was a stark contrast when she returned to India for her further studies. Yet even in such an adverse environ she states that the Tibetans and their love for Tibetan Culture remain firm and thrives.

While studying she has simultaneously been leading and part of several pivotal organisations that are shaping the narratives on our Tibetan diaspora namely The Global Tibetan People’s Movement for Middle Way Approach (GTPMMWA), Tibetan College Students’ Conference and Monlam AI to name a few. She tells us how through these various agencies she has learnt a lot and her appreciation of being a Tibetan grows stronger each day being part of such bodies. Furthermore, she highlights some of the future initiatives which the GTPMMWA will be taking forward and how the Middle Way Approach is a viable solution for both Tibet and China in resolving the Tibet-China Conflict as both parties involved here win.

On her vision on the future of Tibet, she mentions that it is one where His Holiness the Dalai Lama imparts teachings at the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, where families are not forcibly separated, and where Tibetan culture thrives. Further stating that there are also avenues where our community can bring especially in the context of the patriarchal system we have. She narrates her own experience here and how certain Tibetan Civil Society bodies namely Drokmo and the Tibetan Women Empowerment Desk were of great help to her.

In her closing message, she urges and requests Tibetans to preserve their cultural identities and appreciates the continued support from global Tibet supporters. She emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and how solidarity with Tibetans contributes to a more peaceful world.

Shinyi’s journey reflects the resilience and determination of Tibetans worldwide to preserve their culture and advocate for their rights.

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Hosted by Kate Saunders, FNVA Senior Fellow

Youtube link : https://youtu.be/PbwD9h2eHJE?si=IqqZneyM35vdY5NY 

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said on May 9:  “We’re concerned by reports of the spread of mass DNA collection to Tibet as an additional form of control and surveillance over the Tibetan population.”

What if the mass DNA collection in Tibet isn’t only about surveillance in a dystopian police state – but has a further disturbing purpose?  

American company Thermo Fisher Scientific is a key supplier of DNA profiling technology to Chinese police.  

Our guest today, Ethan Gutmann, makes a chilling hypothesis. What if Thermo Fisher has been involved in a process to discover if one person’s vital organs could fit into another person’s body?

Our podcast brings together horrifying research on the killing of Falun Gong practitioners and Uyghurs for their organs in China. The China Tribunal in London in 2019 concluded that for decades, prisoners have been killed and their organs sold across the world including to people in Western countries and the Gulf states.

In our discussion, Ethan Gutmann talks about his difficult and dangerous research talking to courageous survivors of prison camps in Xinjiang, and how he pieced together evidence of connections between disappearances from the prison camps, and hospitals and transplant centres in China. He describes how green lanes for organ transfers at airports in East Turkestan appeared at around the same time as the construction of new crematoriums in the same area.

Our discussion covers:

1. The alarming implications of Thermo Fisher selling DNA profiling kits to Chinese police. UN Rapporteurs have warned about the risk that so-called ‘health checks’ involving DNA collection in the PRC among Uyghurs, Tibetans, Christians and Falun Gong practitioners are then used to create a living organ database. Thermo Fisher said it stopped selling DNA profiling kits to police in Xinjiang in 2019. But it has provided no such assurances with regard to Tibet.
2. Why Ethan required a personal security detail to make a keynote address to the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. This elite body of surgeons has now made a statement saying they do not support their Chinese counterparts in procuring organs from executed prisoners.
3. Increasing international attention on a multi-billion dollar industry in China  has culminated in the U.S. Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act of 2023. This specifies the imposition of serious sanctions on any person determined to be funding or facilitating the forced removal of organs, with penalties including imprisonment for up to 20 years.
4. An amendment on organ tourism criminalizing the selling of organs from China has been passed in the House of Commons in the UK. The European Parliament adopted a resolution in May calling on member states to ensure that cooperation agreements with China on health and research respect EU ethical principles, and to revisit their collaborations with Chinese institutions on transplant medicine.  

Ethan talked to us while in London for the first conference of the World Uyghur Christian Union. This was set up by Dr Enver Bugda Tohti, a former cancer surgeon from Xinjiang who has testified with such courage to the practice of forced organ harvesting.

Sources and links:

Ethan Gutmann revealed chilling information about the harvesting of organs from Falun Gong practitioners in his book The Slaughter, and updated findings published in 2016 together with David Kilgour and David Matas (https://www.youtube.com/@EndTransplantAbuse).  

WATCH Ethan Gutmann’s presentation on forced organ harvesting in Xinjiang https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hJcmKMEqhY

Independent Tribunal Into Forced Organ Harvesting from Prisoners of Conscience in China Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naJFMfDv3Tc  Final Judgement and Summary: https://chinatribunal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/ChinaTribunal_-SummaryJudgment_17June2019.pdf 

Human Rights Watch report on how Tibetans have been subjected to so-called ‘health checks’ and the collection of DNA on a mass scale https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/09/05/china-new-evidence-mass-dna-collection-tibet.

The testimony of Dr Enver Bugda Tohti, Uyghur cancer surgeon, on being compelled to carry out a transplant on an executed prisoner in 1998: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABaLZHIjks8 

How Dr Enver exposed increasing cancer rates in Xinjiang linked to Chinese nuclear testing – documentary, ‘Death on the Silk Road’, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PRb8Xcdxp8 

Dr. Jacob Lavee and Matthew Robertson published findings in a peer-reviewed US medical journal mentioned during the interview with Ethan including the following: “71 papers gave explicit descriptions of surgeons appearing to violate the dead donor rule while procuring hearts from prisoners. In plain language, the papers appear to show that the donors, who were prisoners, were alive at the time of surgery, and were killed by the transplant surgeons in the process of heart extraction.” (‘Execution by organ procurement: Breaching the dead donor rule in China’ by Matthew P Robertson, Jacob Lavee, 4 April 2022, American Journal of Transplantation, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ajt.16969).

The response from the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) :  https://endtransplantabuse.org/international-society-for-heart-and-lung-transplantation-issues-policy-regarding-transplant-abuse-in-china/

Doctors against Forced Organ Harvesting, https://dafoh.org/

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