Philadelphia

LOCAL TIBETANS HOLD DAY LONG SOLIDARITY HUNGER STRIKE
Self-immolations in Tibet increase as Chinese oppression worsens.

PHILADELPHIA, Pa – The Tibetan Association of Philadelphia (TAP) and Tibet supporters are holding a day-long hunger strike and rally at Independence Mall today to show solidarity with Tibetans in Tibet as China continues to increase its oppression of Tibetan religion and culture. The event was marked with political theatre, chants and speeches from local leaders. Ten young Tibetan monks and two nuns have set fire to themselves in eastern Tibet since March 2011; nine since 26 September. Six have died. The location and condition of the others is unknown. These unprecedented and truly desperate acts are a cry to the outside world for help.