Day 18 - Apr 16, 2008 - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We woke up the next morning at the Wangdi's home. We drove over towards Independence Hall and stopped for some breakfast. Thank you Tsering Wangdi for the meal. After this we headed to the park in between the National Convention Center and Independence Hall. The Convention Center was where they were to hold the Presidential debates between Clinton and Obama. Tsering had organized a large protest with his Tibetan Association of Philadelphia. They set up a large platform with signs and flags and brought in food and drinks for everyone. About 300 protestors showed up. Many people spoke. Jigme Logro Rinpoche and I had been asked to speak the night before. Rinpoche spoke first and than I. I was very nervous but was able to get my point across. There was tremendous support. Also there were three news helicopters flying over head and lots of media on the ground taking footage. The day was very amazing. After this we headed back home to New York City, Tsewang drove us the whole way, thanks again Tsewang. Thanks again to all of the proestors for showing your support and the Tibetan Organization of Philadelphia and other Tibetan Organizations for bringing everyone together.

-Mikell