82R26950 JGH-D
By: Branch H.R. No. 1770
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is receiving an
honorary degree from Southern Methodist University and speaking at
the SMU Hart Global Leaders Forum on May 9, 2011; and
WHEREAS, Born in 1935, the Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader
and former head of state of Tibet; he is revered by Tibetan
Buddhists as the 14th reincarnation of the Buddha Avalokiteshvara,
who achieved spiritual enlightenment; and
WHEREAS, The homeland of the Dalai Lama was invaded by China
in 1949, and the following year, he was called on to assume full
political power; in 1959, he was forced to escape into exile, and he
has since lived in Dharamsala, India, the seat of the Tibetan
government in exile; he retired from his political role in March
2011; and
WHEREAS, Over the years, the Dalai Lama has become a beloved
and world-renowned champion for the ideals of compassion,
nonviolence, interreligious cooperation, and human rights; he has
traveled to more than 60 countries on 6 continents, speaking to the
public and meeting with presidents, monarchs, and other heads of
state, as well as clergy and scientists; he has authored more than
72 books and received countless awards, honorary degrees, and
prizes in recognition of his important work; in 1989, he was awarded
the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle for the
liberation of Tibet; and
WHEREAS, The Dalai Lama is an inspiration to people of all
faiths and backgrounds, who look to him for guidance in an
increasingly complex world, and it is indeed a privilege to welcome
him to the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas
Legislature hereby honor His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the
occasion of his visit to Southern Methodist University in Dallas
and extend to him sincere gratitude for his continued efforts in
behalf of global peace and understanding; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for His Holiness as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.