Jigme Norbu-A Patriot Who Walked For Tibet’s Independence

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Tibettruth wishes to express is heartfelt sadness and shock at the tragic death of Jigme Norbu, son of the late Takster Rinpoche, killed by a passing car during a Walk For Tibet in Florida. Norbu, aged 45, was hit by a passing driver around 7:30 PM on Feb. 14 on State Road A1A in Hammock, across the street from the Adult and Community Education building, some 10 miles north of Flagler Beach and 25 miles south of St. Augustine.

Like his father, Jigme was a tireless campaigner for Tibet and committed to raising awareness about the plight of Tibetans under illegal Chinese occupation, and dedicated to Tibet’s independence. We had the honor of working closely in support of Jigme, during last year’s walk from Minnesota to Ontario, Canada, and his efforts for his fellow Tibetans were inspirational. His journey’s for Tibet’s national freedom were a huge success and Jigme’s engaging nature and obvious love for his country attracted many friends and admirers as he carried Tibet’s cause along the highways and roads of the United States. A nephew to the Dalai Lama, Jigme had amassed an incredible 7,800 miles during 19 walks.

Tibettruth wishes to extend to the family of Jigme Norbu our sympathy and condolences during this difficult time, his selfless devotion to the cause of Tibet’s independence will be sorely missed, yet we have no doubt that he would advise those shocked and saddened by this tragedy, that what counts more is the plight of Tibet and the desire and right of its people to national freedom. It was an aspiration that Jigme dedicated his life towards and one he would no doubt urge us all to support, an action that truly honors the spirit and goodness of Jigme Norbu.