Sam Brownback: “March 10 has been known around the world as ``Tibetan Uprising Day.'' Today, as Tibetans remember those who died…”

“March 10 has been known around the world as ``Tibetan Uprising Day.'' Today, as Tibetans remember those who died resisting Chinese occupation, we too should reflect on the struggles that have faced Tibet since that fateful day 45 years ago. The events of that day, followed by over four decades of struggle by the Tibetan people, is a plight that has become known to many around the world. After Chinese invasion in 1949 and despite the 1951 Seventeen Point Agreement forced upon the Tibetans by the Chinese Government, it was clear by 1958 that they had no intention of securing the preservation of Tibetan autonomy and institutions. By March 10, 1959 so many Tibetans feared for the Dalai Lama's life that they surrounded his compound as a means of protection and began protesting Chinese occupation. Only seven days later the Dalai Lama escaped to India fearing for the lives of his vigilant people. After the crowds refused orders to leave the compound and unaware of the Dalai Lama's escape, the People's Liberation Army launched an attack killing thousands of innocent civilians. It is estimated that 87,000 Tibetans were killed, arrested or deported to labor camps during the uprising. Many attempted escaping the communist persecution to India, but only a small percentage actually survived the difficult conditions. The United States has long supported the Tibetan right to self-determination and has declared Tibet to be an occupied territory.”