SJR 18 Summary

• Alaska State Legislature condemns the People's Republic of China's repression of human rights in Tibet and expresses solidarity with Tibetan protesters from March 2008.

• Urges U.S. Congress to take action ending China's human rights repression in Tibet and to recognize the right of Tibetan people to freedom and genuine political autonomy.

• Urges U.S. Congress to pressure the Chinese government to negotiate in good faith with representatives of the Dalai Lama to find meaningful autonomy for Tibetans.

• Resolution cites the March 10, 1959 Chinese invasion of Tibet, reports of over 1,000,000 Tibetan deaths under occupation, and violations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

• Copies to be sent to the President, Vice President, relevant Congressional committees, the Office of Tibet in New York, and Alaska's delegation in Congress.