Agenda Text
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In Celebration of Losar, the Tibetan New Year, on March 3, 2022.
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Official Text
WHEREAS: Losar is the most important holiday for Tibetans all around the world, including the many Tibetans who have embraced and called Somerville their home for the last three decades; and
WHEREAS: It is a little-known fact that some of the first Tibetan refugees to come to the United States as part of a historic resettlement program in the 1990s settled in Somerville, many in and around the Teele Square area; and
WHEREAS: Over one hundred Somervillians, including students, alumni and parents, as well as small business owners, local activists, and municipal employees, have signed a letter calling on the City of Somerville to celebrate Losar at this critical moment when the very survival of Tibetan language and culture is under threat in Tibet itself; and
WHEREAS: For close to thirty years, as political exiles who fled persecution in Tibet, Tibetans have been trying their best to sustain their distinct national and cultural identity in the growing Somerville community; and
WHEREAS: This is especially important because in Tibet today, Tibetans are not allowed to practice their religion and culture freely, and are facing immense cultural suppression; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED: That the Somerville Mayor and City Council stand in solidarity with Somerville's Tibetan residents; AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED: That the Somerville Mayor and City Council offer wishes for a joyful celebration of Losar, the Tibetan New Year, on March 3, 2022.