Friday, September 18, 2009

Talk Tibet

In medieval age,tea shops have served an ideal locations for intellectual debate, where writers, playwright, poets and politician gather for tea, and then engage in heated discourse on various topics concerning the society.
Some of the finest English literature gave birth as consequence of such lively exchanges among thinkers , intelligentsia at tea shops. International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) located at heart of America Capital Washington D.C provides a similar platform for such a learning and exchange on Tibet issues. In a short of span of time, ICT has hosted a plethora of lectures, panela discussions, film and arts shows with guest speakers of various expertise. It was not a tea shop, but sort of a wine shop, where after each session, refreshments were provided, wine served and participants engage in more intimate and personal conversation. ICT's lecture series creates a conducive atmosphere for debate and discussion on any issues related to Tibet and its people. I had the privilege of attending some of them, and each time, the presentations were superb, insightful and thought provoking.For example the latest lecture was by David Germoan of University of Virginia, on his interesting and breathtaking project in Tibet, and his digital library. The lecture was well attended, and it should have drawn more Tibetan audiences. The key points in his presentation focused on the importance of participatory learning for younger generation. His projects aimed to empower local Tibetan youth in taking up initiatives to protect the environment and promote local culture and language.

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