Dalai Lama Congressional Medal

The Dalai Lama received the Congressional Gold Medal on October 17, 2007, despite objections from the Chinese government. The Gold Medal is considered the nation's highest civilian honor. The ceremony was held at the U.S. Capitol and the religious leader was escorted by President Bush.¹

Fast Facts

1. The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibet
2. His name is Tenzin Gyatso
3. He is the 14th Dalai Lama
4. Lives in exile in India
5. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989
6. Helped spread Buddhism to the West
7. Believed to be one of the incarnations of Avalokitesvara
8. China slammed the United States for bestowing this honor on the Dalai Lama
9. Past recipients of the medal include: Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Winston Churchill

Controversy with China

In 1951, Beijing claimed government control of Tibet after China invaded the state a year prior. In 1959, the Dalai Lama left Tibet after being stifled for religious beliefs and a failed uprising against the Chinese. Since then, the Dalai Lama has been living in exile in India. ²

Quotes

"It is a great honor for me to receive the Congressional Gold Medal. This will bring tremendous joy and encouragement to the Tibetan people, for whom I have a special responsibility."-Dalai Lama¹

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