A new law implemented in China on July 1 has Tibetans fighting to preserve their language and culture, as the government seeks to promote “ethnic unity” and patriotism. The law prohibits acts deemed to incite division among China’s 56 ethnic groups, and schools, families, and institutions are expected to foster a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.
In the Tibet autonomous region, a 73-year-old retired nurse, Kalsang Lhamo, is taking classes to learn Tibetan calligraphy, a script she never learned to write despite speaking the language her whole life. This effort to preserve her cultural heritage is significant, as the new law has been widely criticized for its potential to erode the rights of Tibetans and other minorities.
Tibetan Language and Culture Under Threat
The Chinese government has mandated Chinese as the primary language for schools and government agencies, leading to concerns that Tibetan language and culture will be further marginalized. Tibetan activists say the new law represents more forced cultural assimilation and extended control over ethnic minorities. Rights groups point to language policies already implemented in other minority regions, such as expanded Mandarin education for Uyghurs in Xinjiang.
Some Tibetans, like 19-year-old student Qongqiu Quco, are finding ways to preserve their language and identity, despite the challenges. Quco, an aspiring teacher, speaks Tibetan much of the time and hopes to pass on her culture to future generations. However, at school, she notes that students speak different Tibetan dialects, so they use Mandarin to communicate.
Implications of the New Law
The new law has significant implications for Tibetans and other minority groups in China. Critics say it will lead to further erosion of their cultural rights and autonomy. The law also gives Beijing the authority to target activities it considers separatist, even outside China, raising concerns about the impact on Tibetan communities worldwide.
The situation in Tibet is complex, with reminders of Chinese control everywhere, from airport welcome messages to billboards promoting ethnic unity. However, many Tibetans remain committed to preserving their language and culture, and the new law has sparked fears about the future of Tibetan identity.
