Dharamshala — Five Tibetan activists commenced the 7th Peace Rally Marathon for Tibet from Ottawa to Toronto on Wednesday, to protest Beijing's repressive policies in Tibet. The marathon formally urges the Canadian government and the international community to demand the repeal of China's so-called "Ethnic Unity and Progress Law," which legalizes systematic cultural erasure.
The 7th Peace Rally Marathon for Tibet officially kicked off in front of the Embassy of China in Ottawa on September 23, 2026. Members of the Ottawa Tibetan Community Association gathered outside the embassy to hold a brief opening ceremony to launch the event. Demonstrating solidarity for Tibetan freedom and human rights in Tibet, the rally leader Pema Kunga formally initiated the rally, marking the start of the marathon dedicated to raising global awareness for the Tibetan cause.
On the same day, the delegation met with Members of Parliament James Maloney and Karim Bardeesy on Parliament Hill in Ottawa to advocate for the Tibetan cause. During the meeting, representatives formally presented their demands, urging the MPs to support and raise awareness about Tibet during the ongoing parliamentary session. The delegation strongly condemned the recent "Ethnic Unity and Progress Law" passed by the People's Republic of China, highlighting its detrimental impact on Tibetan culture and identity.
The rally appeal to the Canada government and international community to repeal china's so-called "ethnic unity and progress law", protect third pole (Tibet) and release all innocent Tibetan prisoners.
Kalden Wangchuk said, "Every step of this 450 kms marathon carries the Message of Tibet’s pain and resilience. We run to ensure that the Tibetan identity, culture, and freedom are not lost to the oppressive policies enforced in Tibet today.”
Dawa norbu said, “This 450 km marathon is not just a run-it is a call to the world to recognize the ongoing human rights crisis inside Tibet. Tibet is still burning, and the threat of losing our unique identity under china's policies has never been greater.”
Dechen wangdi said, "If you love your country (Tibet) & people; it's high time you step up, raise voice for our brothers and sisters suffering in Tibet under Chinese CCP regime"
Gyurmey tsultrim said, "As a youngest runner, I participate in this marathon to raise awareness of the Tibetan people's struggle for human rights and cultural survival. The world must know that Tibet’s voice is being silenced, but our spirit of resistance continues to run strong."
Pema kunga said, "I will never give up fighting against CCP (Chinese Communist party) until I die. Bhod gyalo (Victory for Tibet).”
They will conclude the 7th Peace Rally Marathon for Tibet at the Consulate General of PRC, Toronto, on October 1, 2026. The runners including Pema Kunga, Dechen Wangdi, Gyurmey Tsultrim, Kalden Wangchuk (Navigator), and Dawa Norbu Dayab (Runner/Coordinator/Driver).
The grueling 450-kilometre journey will conclude on October 1, 2026, directly in front of the Consulate General of the PRC in Toronto. The team deliberately timed their arrival to coincide with Chinese National Day, transforming the finish line into a powerful protest against China's illegal occupation of Tibet. The dedicated rally team features runners Pema Kunga, Dechen Wangdi, and Gyurmey Tsultrim, supported by team navigator Kalden Wangchuk and Dawa Norbu Dayab, who is serving as a runner, coordinator, and driver. Their arrival in Toronto will mark the completion of a demanding multi-day trek aimed at drawing urgent international attention to the ongoing human rights crisis in Tibet.
