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Violence at the Top of the World: Lhasa Rocks From Violent Protests

I truly do try and stay away from politics, but as I have mentioned here before and quote often, I hold the Dalai Lama in particular and Tibetan Buddhists in general in high regard. This week while commemorating the 49th anniversary protest that ousted the Dalai Lama from his home and his people, Buddhists monks during a peaceful protest in Lhasa, Tibet were met with resistance from Chinese soldiers.

Tibetan citizens, not holding to the monks non-violent protest began rioting. There are reports coming from the region that monks have self-inflicted wounds upon themselves (a sign of protest), people are looting, fires are being set to vehicles and shops, and some are dying during this time.  Gunfire has been heard throughout the city. The political and religious turmoil occurring on the “Roof of the World” has forced the Chinese government to actually shut down Mt. Everest at the very beginning of the climbing season. It will be shut until May 10th when a Chinese team is expected to summit with the Olympic torch. The government of Nepal is attempting to negotiate so that the southern route of Everest is still climbable as this is a massive source of income for what is the world’s second poorest country. However they are under great pressure from the Chinese government which is concerned about meeting pro-Tibetan protests during the climb.

Just 5 months before the Olympic games in Beijing, the world should be holding China accountable for their oppressive and genocidal actions (yes I used the “g” word as they are killing off the Tibetan Buddhist people and culture). I hope the major governments of this world, including my own boycott the Olympics in hopes that China backs off the devastation they are creating.