March for Religious Freedom in France
DALAI LAMA MENTEUR!
DALAI LAMA LIAR!
Am impressive convoy of 8 coaches and several mini buses stopped traffic in the seaside town of La Baule today as police escorted hundreds of Shugden practitioners to a march for freedom along the town’s esplanade.
Over 500 people marched in unity against the backdrop of a stunning seaside scene chanting with a determined passion: “Dalai Lama Menteur” (Liar). The holiday town was brimming with people who had come to enjoy the national holiday. The intrigued holiday makers stood on balconies, with some people cheering and clapping, as the protestors marched passed. Residents of La Baule told the protestors that only two demonstrations were permitted in their town each year so they were most amazed to see this collection of Buddhists demonstrating on the peak annual holiday day!
Afterwards the protestors made their way to Nantes, where their number increased to 600, to voice their concerns outside the Dalai Lama’s public talk. It seems as if there could not be a more fitting town to stage a protest demanding the Dalai Lama to give religious freedom. In 1598 the Edict of Nantes was signed here – a declaration of religious freedom in which the King of France recognised the rights of all Christians to practise in accordance with their own traditions, ending a dark age of religious suppression.
The Western world’s passion for liberty, equality and fraternity have passed by the Dalai Lama who is stuck in an ancient world characterized by control and persecution. Joyful, peaceful and dedicated protestors stretching over 200 metres made an impressive sight as thousands of people walked by. Many people were curious to understand the deeper meaning behind the protestors chants.
As the day came to an end the heartfelt shouting grew louder as it echoed across the park where it could be clearly heard by people attending the public talk. The message has been delivered: Dalai Lama Give Religious Freedom. Now, it is up to the Dalai Lama to emulate the integrity of the great leaders of the past and end this heartless persecution.
Published: 15 Aug 2008