Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR515

Introduced
6/13/25  

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill aims to reaffirm U.S. policy that the identification and installation of Tibetan Buddhist leaders must occur without interference from the Chinese government. It resonates with the principles laid out in prior legislation, including the Tibetan Policy and Support Act, and seeks to bolster international support for the Tibetan cause. The resolution does not directly enforce new laws, but serves to strengthen existing commitments regarding the human rights of Tibetans, which may influence future diplomatic relations and discussions with China regarding Tibet's autonomy and cultural rights.

Summary

House Resolution 515 commemorates the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on July 6, 2025, designating it as 'A Day of Compassion.' The resolution acknowledges the Dalai Lama's significant contributions to peace, nonviolence, and human rights, while emphasizing the importance of supporting the Tibetan people's rights to practice their religion, culture, and language without interference. This resolution reflects a long-standing U.S. commitment to advocating for Tibet and the preservation of its unique identity against repressive measures imposed by the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Contention

There is notable contention surrounding HR515 as it addresses the sensitive political relationship between the U.S. and China. The resolution's articulation of Tibetan rights and the call for non-interference by the Chinese government in religious matters could exacerbate tensions. Critics may argue that this resolution could provoke the Chinese government and that it might be seen as U.S. intervention in China's internal affairs. However, supporters assert that the resolution is crucial for defending religious freedom and human rights, not just for Tibetans but for all oppressed people.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR1072

Recognizing the 65th anniversary of the Tibetan Uprising Day of March 10, 1959, and condemning human rights violations related to the hydropower dam construction project in Derge.

US SR619

A resolution honoring the 65th anniversary of the uprising of the people of Tibet in defense of freedom.

US SR715

A resolution remembering the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre, and condemning the widespread repression against citizens, the transnational repression against activists and other individuals, and the systematic efforts to undermine human rights norms within and outside of the United Nations system by the People's Republic of China.

US SR569

A resolution recognizing religious freedom as a fundamental right, expressing support for international religious freedom as a cornerstone of United States foreign policy, and expressing concern over increased threats to and attacks on religious freedom around the world.

US HB10537

To support and promote the human rights of Southern Mongolians in the People's Republic of China, and for other purposes.

US HR1221

Marking the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre and condemning the ongoing and often brutal suppression of human rights and basic freedoms by the Government of the People's Republic of China and Chinese Communist Party, including in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and for other purposes.

US HR462

Remembering the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre and condemning the continued and intensifying crackdown on human rights and basic freedoms within the People's Republic of China, including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, by the Chinese Communist Party, and for other purposes.

US HB533

Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act

US SB138

Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act

US HR542

Condemning human rights violations and violations of international religious freedom in India, including those targeting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Adivasis, and other religious and cultural minorities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.