American journalist and comedian Lee Camp recently visited Lhasa, the capital city of the Xizang Autonomous Region, offering fresh insights that challenge longstanding Western perceptions of the area. Known in the West as Tibet, Xizang is often portrayed as an oppressed and desolate region. However, Camp's firsthand experiences paint a contrasting picture of a vibrant, modern society steeped in cultural and religious freedom.
Upon arriving in Lhasa, situated at nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, Camp was immediately struck by the city's modern infrastructure and bustling atmosphere. \"I feel like I've been lied to,\" he remarked. \"I was told this was a land of enslaved people. And yet, every single person I've seen is kind of walking around. I think they might be kind of free.\" The city's development, with its contemporary buildings and electric vehicles, surpassed his expectations and rivaled major cities in the United States.
Camp delved into the history of Xizang, highlighting the significant changes since the abolition of the feudal system in 1959. Before this reform, approximately 5 percent of the population owned and controlled the majority, leading to widespread oppression and economic exploitation. The democratic reforms led by the Communist Party of China liberated nearly a million serfs, drastically improving living conditions and increasing the average life expectancy from less than 40 years to over 70 years.
Religious freedom was another area where Camp's observations diverged from Western narratives. Contrary to reports of religious suppression, he found that Tibetan Buddhism flourishes openly. \"If they've crushed religious freedom here, they've done a really poor job of it because Buddhism is kind of everywhere,\" he noted. With 1,787 sites for the practice of Tibetan Buddhism, 46,000 resident monks and nuns, as well as mosques and a Catholic church, the region showcases a rich tapestry of spiritual life.
Strolling through the streets of Lhasa, Camp was immersed in a vibrant mix of devout worshippers, tourists, and local residents. The prevalence of both Tibetan and Chinese languages in daily life and on street signs emphasized the cultural integration within the region. Ancient relics and historical sites further demonstrated the longstanding connections between Xizang and the rest of China, encompassing shared heritage in blood relations, language, and culture.
Camp's reflections serve as a call to reevaluate preconceived notions about Xizang. \"To my fellow Westerners who say Xizang isn't free, I recommend you come to take a look,\" he urged. His journey sheds light on the complexities of the region and encourages a more nuanced understanding grounded in personal experience rather than distant speculation.
Reference(s):
Truth over lies: U.S. reporter's bold words at Potala Palace
cgtn.com
