Dalai Lama's US Visit Draws Attention to Tibet Turmoil | Albuquerque Express

Dalai Lama's US Visit Draws Attention to Tibet Turmoil

VoA - USA Tuesday 17th April, 2012

Following a year in which more than 30 Tibetans set themselves on fire to protest Chinese rule in Tibet, the Dalai Lama is to begin a four-day visit to California on Wednesday. Some American admirers said the Tibetan spiritual leader's teachings have made them more aware of the problems in his homeland.

The Dalai Lama has noted followers in Hollywood, including actor Richard Gere.

He also has admirers at the University of Southern California, where he spoke in May, 2011. Recent graduate Jake Bloch was attracted by the Dalai Lama's charismatic style, and the former student is now concerned with the plight of Tibetans.

"His visit last year to the USC campus and his regular visits to universities across America have helped to increase awareness," said Bloch.

The Dalai Lama is Buddhist, but his humor and down-to-earth approach appeal to Catholic graduate student Megan Sweas and others.

"Jews, Hindus, secular people, atheists, they can all relate to what he has to bring to the table," said Sweas.

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, January 3, 2012

Chinese authorities blame the Dalai Lama for the 20 deaths caused by the the self-immolations, mostly by members of the Buddhist clergy.

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