Tibetan Associations of NY, NJ declare July 6 as ’14th Dalai Lama Day’

Tibetan Associations of New York declare July 6 as ‘14th Dalai Lama Day’ during 90th birthday celebration. Among the elected officials present were NJ Governor Phil Murphy, and NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
(Photo/X@CTA_TibetdotNet) via ANI

The Tibetan Associations of New York and New
Jersey held a two-day celebration marking the 90th birthday of the 14th Dalai
Lama on July 5 and 6, 2025, with the main event taking place at Phuntsok Deshi Hall on
July 6, as reported by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

The chief guests were Kyabje Kundeling Rinpoche, with Choekhor
Rinpoche and Kunga Tashi, the Tibetan Liaison Officer at the Office of Tibet, as
special guests. In his keynote address, Kyabje Kundeling Rinpoche paid tribute to the Dalai Lama’s decades of leadership in promoting nonviolence, compassion, and
global harmony. Choekhor Rinpoche and Kunga Tashi also offered greetings and
read the official statement of the Kashag on the occasion, according to the CTA.

Among the distinguished guests were former judges, ex-staff of the Central Tibetan
Administration, and former officials from the Government of India, as well as
representatives of religious institutions. Samdup Tsering, President of the Tibetan
Association, also addressed the gathering.

A historic highlight of the event was the attendance of New York City Mayor Eric
Adams, who joined a Tibetan community celebration for the first time. In his speech,
Mayor Adams praised the 14th Dalai Lama’s unwavering commitment to global peace
and spiritual values.

He declared July 6 as “14th Dalai Lama Day” in New York City, a gesture warmly
received by the Tibetan community. Additionally, he announced that the city would
officially recognise the Tibetan Green Book (Chatrel), a voluntary contribution system
supporting the CTA, affirming the community’s identity and governance in exile, as
reported by the CTA.

The celebration concluded with colourful performances of traditional Tibetan songs
and dances, reflecting the rich cultural heritage preserved in exile.
Similar celebrations took place across global Tibetan communities, reflecting deep
reverence for the Dalai Lama’s legacy.

The 14th Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India since 1959 after fleeing Tibet due to
Chinese occupation. His teachings on compassion, peace, and religious freedom
continue to inspire millions worldwide, the CTA noted.