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HRES 515

Commemorating the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on July 6, 2025, as "A Day of Compassion", and expressing support for the human rights, religious freedom, and cultural and linguistic protection of the Tibetan people.

119th Congress Introduced by Jim Baird and 26 co-sponsors

HRES 515 designates July 6, 2025, as "A Day of Compassion," supporting Tibetan rights and opposing Chinese interference in their religious leadership.

Submitted in House
1
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HRES 515

Summary of HRES 515: Commemorating the 90th Birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Bill Number: HRES 515
Introduced: June 13, 2025
Status: Submitted in House
Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HRES 515 aims to commemorate the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on July 6, 2025, by designating this date as "A Day of Compassion." The resolution expresses support for the human rights, religious freedom, and cultural and linguistic protection of the Tibetan people. It acknowledges the Dalai Lama's significant contributions to peace, nonviolence, and human rights.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important affirmations and calls to action:

  1. Recognition of "A Day of Compassion": The House of Representatives officially recognizes July 6, 2025, as a day dedicated to compassion.

  2. Congratulatory Message: The resolution congratulates His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday and acknowledges his contributions to global peace and understanding.

  3. Affirmation of Tibetan Rights: It affirms the fundamental human rights and freedoms of the Tibetan people, including their right to self-determination and the protection of their unique religious, cultural, linguistic, and national identity.

  4. Religious Authority: The resolution reiterates that the identification and installation of Tibetan Buddhist religious leaders, including the future 15th Dalai Lama, should be determined by the Tibetan Buddhist faith community, in line with their right to religious freedom.

  5. Opposition to External Interference: It asserts that any attempts by the Government of the People's Republic of China to interfere in the identification or installation of Tibetan Buddhist leaders are considered invalid and a violation of religious freedom.

  6. Presentation of the Resolution: The resolution encourages that it be presented to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a sign of respect and esteem.

Affected Parties

  • Tibetan People: The resolution directly supports the rights and freedoms of the Tibetan people, emphasizing their cultural and religious identity.
  • Tibetan Buddhist Community: It addresses the authority of the Tibetan Buddhist faith community regarding religious leadership.
  • International Relations: The resolution may impact U.S.-China relations, particularly concerning human rights and religious freedom issues.

Legislative Actions

  • Referred to Committee: On June 13, 2025, the resolution was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by a diverse group of representatives, including:

  • Primary Sponsor: Michael T. McCaul
  • Cosponsors: Michael Lawler, Maxine Dexter, Jamie Raskin, Richard McCormick, Young Kim, Mark Pocan, Josh Riley, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Pramila Jayapal, Nancy Pelosi, Joe Wilson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Janice D. Schakowsky, James P. McGovern, Nicole Malliotakis, Ilhan Omar, Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen, André Carson.

Conclusion

HRES 515 serves as a significant resolution that not only honors the Dalai Lama's contributions but also reinforces the commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of the Tibetan people. By designating July 6, 2025, as "A Day of Compassion," it seeks to promote awareness and support for ongoing human rights issues in Tibet.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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