My name is Sophie Bouris. I am studying human rights at the University of Sydney. I have many years of experience working with the Tibetan community.

You may have seen me on 7.30 on ABC TV last night speaking about my university cancelling a talk by the Dalai Lama on the importance of education.

The Dalai Lama is a champion of human rights, democracy and peace. In particular, he has made tremendous investments in the education of the Tibetan people. I can’t think of anyone more appropriate in today’s world to speak on these values than the Dalai Lama.

By bowing to Chinese pressure and withdrawing its support to host the Dalai Lama, Sydney University has seriously compromised its academic freedom and integrity.

Please join me in sending a strong message to the Vice-Chancellor of Sydney University to defend the values of our academic institutions and our free society.

 You can also post a message on the Sydney University facebook page here  https://www.facebook.com/sydneyuni or tweet at them @Sydney_Uni.

Thank you.

Sophie