On 8–9 June 2026, Mr. Tsering Chomphel, President of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), participated in the 2026 Tibet Lobby Day organized by the International Campaign for Tibet in Washington, D.C., alongside representatives from the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress chapters of New York–New Jersey and Minnesota.
Prior to the lobbying activities, the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress visited the Office of Tibet in Washington, D.C., and met with Dr. Namgyal Choedup, Representative of the Office of Tibet for North America. During the meeting, they discussed the ongoing activities of the Tibetan Youth Congress in the United States and explored future initiatives to strengthen advocacy efforts for Tibet.
As part of Tibet Lobby Day, the Tibetan Youth Congress delegation visited the offices of several members of the United States Congress, including James P. McGovern (Massachusetts), Michael T. McCaul (Texas), Scott Perry (Pennsylvania), Pramila Jayapal (Washington), Rick Scott (Florida), and Jeff Merkley (Oregon).
On behalf of the Tibetan Youth Congress, letters were submitted to the Representatives and Senators expressing gratitude for their continued support on the Tibetan freedom movement. The delegation also presented a letter highlighting the ongoing urgent situation inside Tibet and outlining six key concerns requiring international attention.
The Tibetan Youth Congress particularly expressed its appreciation to Senator Rick Scott and Senator Jeff Merkley for observing TYC Martyrs’ Day on 29 April and for introducing the Tibet Atrocities Determination Act. The delegation also thanked Representative James P. McGovern and Representative Michael T. McCaul for introducing the Assuring the Future of Tibet Act of 2026 (H.R. 8982), which reaffirms support for the Tibetan people’s right to determine their own future.
The delegation attended an evening reception hosted by the International Campaign for Tibet at the Russell Senate Office Building, where they met members of the Tibetan community residing across the United States. During the reception, the delegation also had the opportunity to meet Nancy Pelosi, a longstanding supporter of the Tibetan cause and a close friend of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The event provided an important platform for strengthening partnerships and advancing advocacy efforts on behalf of Tibet.
On 9 June, a dinner gathering was hosted by the Regional Tibetan Youth Congress Washington, D.C. Working Committee, former Central Executive members of the Tibetan Youth Congress, and local TYC members residing in the Washington, D.C. area. The gathering provided an opportunity for meaningful discussions on activism, advocacy strategies, and the history of TYC’s campaigns in the Tibetan freedom struggle.
The Tibetan Youth Congress extends its heartfelt gratitude to former TYC Central Executive member Yeshi Tenzin la for his generous financial support during the Washington, D.C. Lobby Day, his active participation in the lobbying efforts, and for sharing his valuable experiences and insights.
The Tibetan Youth Congress also expresses its sincere appreciation to the International Campaign for Tibet for providing the opportunity to participate in the 2026 Tibet Lobby Day. Special thanks are extended to RTYC Washington, D.C. President Youdon la, Gen Sonam, and Rinzin Choedon for their warm hospitality and for accommodating the TYC President and representatives from RTYC New York–New Jersey and RTYC Minnesota during their stay in Washington, D.C.
The Tibetan Youth Congress considers the 2026 Tibet Lobby Day a fruitful and successful initiative that strengthened engagement with U.S. lawmakers, amplified awareness of the ongoing situation inside Tibet, and reaffirmed international support for the just cause of Tibet and the Tibetan people. Through continued advocacy and international engagement, the Tibetan Youth Congress remains committed to advancing the Tibetan people’s struggle for freedom and justice.
