Jim Luce Writes on Tibet & Tibetan-Americans

Jim Luce brings a unique perspective to writing about Tibet and Tibetan-Americans through his deep personal involvement in humanitarian work and direct access to key figures in the Tibetan community. As founder of Orphans International and collaborator with Dr. Kazuko Hillyer Tatsumura in supporting the Manjushree Orphanage for Tibetan orphans in India’s sensitive border region with Chinese Tibet, Luce writes from firsthand experience rather than distant observation. His work spans cultural commentary, political analysis, and intimate portraits of Tibetan Buddhist life, offering readers insights gained through years of on-the-ground engagement and multiple audiences with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. From exploring the iconic Potala Palace’s place in popular culture to covering contemporary political developments affecting Tibetan succession and autonomy, Luce’s writing bridges the gap between Tibet’s ancient spiritual traditions and the modern challenges facing Tibetan communities worldwide.

1. A Place in Pop Culture: Lhasa’s Inspiring and Iconic Potala Palace (June 22, 2023)
2. Compassionate Heart: A Japanese Women’s Solo Journey (May 23, 2024)
3. Dalai Lama Signals Tibetan Buddhist Institution May Continue (June 30, 2025)
4. Dhruv Rathee: How China Captured Tibet, Escape of the Dalai Lama (August 1, 2025)
5. Dr. Kazuko Opens Academic Building at Tibetan Orphanage in India
   (Originally published in The Huffington Post, Oct. 13, 2015)
6. H.H. The Dalai Lama’s 83rd Birthday Interfaith Celebration in NYC
   (Originally published July 10, 2018)
7. In the Presence of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama (May 27, 2022)
8. Indian Minister Backs Dalai Lama’s Succession Plan, Against China (July 5, 2025)
9. Lama Thupten Phuntsok: Tibetan Monk’s Life Outside Monastery (Oct. 10, 2019)
10. Meet American Lobsang Sangay, President of Tibet
11. NYC Gala in Support of Tibetan Orphans Set for January
    (Originally published in The Huffington Post, Dec. 24, 2017)
12. Profound Journeys: Encountering The Dalai Lama, Aiding Manjushree Orphanage Children
    (May 9, 2024)
13. Tawang’s Spiritual Legacy: Home to Dalai Lamas, Tibetan Buddhism (Aug. 6, 2023)
14. U.S. Lawmakers Meet Dalai Lama as China Slams Visit (June 19, 2024) [VOA]
15. Understanding the Role and Legacy of the Dalai Lama (June 22, 2023)
16. Video: H.H. The Dalai Lama’s 83rd Birthday (“and Bar Mitzvah”) Interfaith Celebration
    (July 6, 2018)