The presence of well known actor Richard Gere in activist Buddhist circles over the years has always served as an inspiration for others when things get rough. It appears at times that Gere is almost as well respected by many Buddhists and their friends as is His Holiness The Dalai Lama. And so Syracuse Buddhists are joining in a chorus of congratulations to Richard Gere for his winning of the George Eastman Award.
The Tibet Post International has reported "Hollywood Star, Richard Gere Wins George Eastman Award." In appreciation for his work in film and his dedication to humanitarian causes Richard Gere has been chosen as the next recipient of the George Eastman House Award. Richard Gere is a well liked Hollywood star and activist who has been in strong support of human rights in Tibet.
Richard Gere, who is now 62 years old, has been a long time friend of Tibet and follower of the Buddhist spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Gere has expressed his very deep concerns over the ongoing crackdowns, torture and killing in Tibet. He has often made refefence to political oppression faced by his 'Tibetan brothers and sisters'. In 1991, Gere founded the Gere Foundation, which advocates for the preservation of Tibet and its people. Gere's activism appears to have been having a profound influence on public awareness of the ongoing tragedy in Tibet.
