Bipartisan US Congressional Resolution Proposes ‘Day of Compassion’ to Mark Dalai Lama’s 90th Birthday
By Tenzin Chokyi
DHARAMSALA, 17 June: As His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, a wave of support is building in the US Congress, with a new bipartisan resolution introduced to honour the Tibetan spiritual leader on Monday.
According to a 17 June press release from Rep. Michael McCaul’s office, US Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), Chairman Emeritus of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) have jointly introduced a resolution designating 6 July 2025, the Dalai Lama’s birthday, as “A Day of Compassion”.
The resolution, which is yet to be passed, seeks to recognise the Dalai Lama’s lifelong commitment to peace, nonviolence, human rights, and the preservation of Tibetan culture. It also reaffirms congressional support for the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination and rejects Chinese government interference in Tibetan religious practices.
“Despite persecution by the Chinese Communist Party, His Holiness continues to preach peace and compassion,” said Rep. McCaul, who met the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala last year. McCaul has expressed pride in introducing the resolution and reaffirmed his support for the Tibetan people, saying he looks forward to the day when the Dalai Lama and his people can “return to their homeland in peace.”
Rep. Jim McGovern, who has played a pivotal role in advancing U.S. support for the Tibetan people and their human rights, has praised the Dalai Lama’s enduring leadership and message of peace.
“He has been a passionate advocate for the freedom and dignity of the Tibetan people. Given his lifelong dedication and impact, it is only fitting that Congress honours the 14th Dalai Lama and his countless accomplishments on his 90th birthday. May his next one be celebrated in Lhasa.”
The resolution is co-sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Reps. Joe Wilson, Mike Lawler, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Jamie Raskin, Jan Schakowsky, and Young Kim.
Tencho Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), called the resolution a “wonderful, bipartisan recognition” of the Dalai Lama’s lifelong commitment to peace and justice. She added that its swift passage would inspire supporters worldwide and offer hope to Tibetans in Tibet, where even publicly acknowledging his birthday is risky.
