Refugee Week is a UK-wide programme of events that celebrates the contribution of refugees to the UK and promotes better understanding of why people seek sanctuary. Since being invaded in 1949, more than 1/6th of Tibet’s population of 6 million have died as a direct result of the Chinese occupation, and over 150,000 have fled into exile as refugees. Despite watching the systematic destruction of their national independence, culture and religion, Tibetans have not looked for retaliation but have sought peaceful solutions based upon tolerance and mutual respect. In 1989 HH Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for this non-violent response. As he says….“ Violence can only breed more violence and suffering. Our struggle must remain non-violent and free of hatred. We are trying to end the suffering of our people, not to inflict suffering upon others.”
Ringu Tulku, Buddhist monk, Tibetan refugee and internationally renowned author, will give a public talk on this compassionate response to invasion & exile, rooted in traditional Buddhist values.
Venue: The Avenue St. Andrew’s URC
(Junction of The Avenue & Alma Road,) Southampton SO17 1XQ
Date: Tuesday June 18th 2013
Time: 7.15pm to 9.15 pm