In a heartfelt and momentous proclamation, Mayor Jacob Frey officially declared September 16, 2023, as "His Holiness the Dalai Lama Day" in the city of Minneapolis, paying homage to the revered spiritual leader, Tenzin Gyatso, and his tireless efforts to promote peace, compassion, and kindness worldwide.
The proclamation, delivered by Mayor Frey, acknowledged the deep connections Minneapolis has with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who has graced the city with his presence on three separate occasions. It highlighted the spiritual leader's unwavering commitment to three major pillars: the promotion of human values, the fostering of inter-religious harmony, and the well-being of the Tibetan people.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama is celebrated globally for his teachings on non-violence, tolerance, and forgiveness, making him a revered figure among people of all backgrounds. Minneapolis recognized him as a true champion of world peace and a symbol of love and compassion.
The proclamation also emphasized the city's long-standing tradition of kindness, with residents consistently demonstrating acts of goodwill in their daily lives, fostering a connected and welcoming environment. Kindness and compassion, as stated in the proclamation, are fundamental traits that underpin the social fabric of the city, enriching families, neighborhoods, schools, and the overall strength of the community.
This declaration builds upon previous proclamations by the City of Minneapolis, which previously marked March 24, 2014, June 24, 2017, and March 31, 2019, as "His Holiness the Dalai Lama Day of Peace and Compassion," promoting his vision of fostering acts of kindness and compassion among all individuals and communities.
Mayor Frey affirmed the city's commitment to promoting kindness as a core value and cultivating a culture of compassion among its residents and employees. The proclamation serves as a call to action, urging all citizens to embrace kindness and compassion in their daily lives, continuing the legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
As Minneapolis comes together to celebrate "His Holiness the Dalai Lama Day," it is not only an occasion to honor a spiritual icon but also a reminder of the enduring power of kindness and compassion to strengthen the bonds within the community and extend a message of hope and unity to the world.
Edited and collated by Team TRC