Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, May 25: Former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, a long-time supporter of the Tibetan people and a key architect of the Tibetan resettlement initiative in the United States, passed away on May 19 at his home in Ogunquit, Maine, at the age of 86.
Frank, who represented the Boston area for 32 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, was widely respected within the Tibetan community for his steadfast advocacy on behalf of Tibetan refugees and human rights. He played a historic role in the Tibetan U.S. Resettlement Project, sponsoring legislation under the Immigration Act of 1990 that enabled 1,000 Tibetan refugees from India and Nepal to settle in the United States under the Tibetan U.S. Resettlement Project.
In a condolence letter dated May 22, the President of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Penpa Tsering, expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the former congressman, describing him as “a steadfast ally and true champion of the Tibetan people.”
Addressing the letter to Frank’s husband, Jim Ready, the CTA President wrote, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of your spouse, Congressman Barney Frank. On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, I extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your loved ones.”
Remembering Frank’s enduring contribution to the Tibetan cause, President Tsering noted that the late congressman played a pivotal role in the successful resettlement of Tibetan refugees in the United States. He said Frank’s “visionary generosity” enabled many Tibetan families to secure quality education for their children, with many later attending leading universities and becoming self-reliant members of society.
The Tibetan political leader further praised Frank’s unwavering commitment to human rights and his enduring friendship with the Tibetan people, stating that his support would “always be remembered with deep gratitude and respect.” “May he attain a swift rebirth,” the message concluded.
Congressman Frank is survived by his husband Jim Ready, sisters Doris Breay and Ann Lewis, and brother David Frank.
