American comedian and journalist Lee Camp recently embarked on a journey to Xizang, known in the West as Tibet, to explore the region and challenge common Western perceptions. Visiting iconic landmarks such as Barkhor Street, the Potala Palace, and the Tibet Museum, Camp shared his experiences and observations that defy the narratives of oppression and lack of freedom often associated with the area.
\"Xizang is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen,\" Camp remarked, expressing his astonishment at the breathtaking landscapes and modern infrastructure. Contrary to expectations of an underdeveloped region, he found Lhasa, the capital city, to be a vibrant metropolis with modern buildings and electric cars, rivaling major cities in the United States.
Camp addressed the Western portrayal of Xizang as a land of oppression, particularly in terms of religious freedom. He noted the prevalence of Tibetan Buddhism, with numerous monks and nuns openly practicing their faith. \"If they've crushed religious freedom here, they've done a really poor job of it because Buddhism is kind of everywhere,\" he observed. Camp highlighted that there are 1,787 sites for Tibetan Buddhist practices, accommodating 46,000 resident monks and nuns, as well as facilities for other religions.
Delving into the history, Camp explored the Tibet Museum, learning about the feudal system that existed prior to 1959, where a small percentage of the population owned and exploited the majority. He acknowledged the significant changes since the democratic reforms led by the Communist Party of China, which abolished serfdom and redistributed land. \"Life expectancy in Xizang went from less than 40 years old to over 70 years old,\" he noted.
Camp challenged the Western media's narrative of cultural and religious suppression in Xizang, suggesting that such accusations might stem from ignorance or a deliberate agenda to harm China's reputation. \"It seems clear that the accusations righteously spewed by the West at China in terms of cultural and religious suppression are at best gross ignorance and at worst a concerted plan to harm China,\" he commented.
Encouraging others to see the region for themselves, Camp said, \"To my fellow Westerners who say Xizang isn't free, I recommend you come to take a look.\" He also reflected on the concept of freedom, pointing out that the United States, despite calling itself \"the land of the free,\" has more prisoners than any other country in the world.
Camp's journey through Xizang offers a perspective that contrasts sharply with prevalent Western views, highlighting the importance of firsthand experience and open-minded exploration in understanding complex cultural and political landscapes.
Reference(s):
Truth over lies: U.S. reporter's bold words at Potala Palace
cgtn.com
