NOTE: I am planning to send this petition to the Prime Minister on June 16th. So, if you agree with the sentiment, please sign before June 15th. This petition is aimed primarily at Canadian residents (citizens and landed immigrants). But others are welcome to sign. WHEREAS: There is growing international discontent about the government of China's human rights record in the year the Olympic Games will be held in Beijing; and WHEREAS: Canada (and other nations) continue to urge Chinese authorities to at least 'talk' to the Dalai Lama about the future of Tibet; and WHEREAS: We, the undersigned, firmly believe the Government of Canada wishes to send our concerns to the Government of China in a forceful manner; and WHEREAS: The Dalia Lama was named an honorary citizen of Canada in 2006 (one of only three individuals to ever receive the honor); WE ACCORDINGLY URGE PRIME MINISTER HARPER TO NAME THE DALAI LAMA TO BE THE 'HONORARY' HEAD OF CANADA'S DIPLOMATIC DELEGATION TO THE OPENING CEREMONIES OF THE GAMES. Even if the Dalai Lama is unable to attend the ceremonies in person (possibly because of either security concerns or visa restrictions), such an honorary appointment would demonstrate Canada's firm resolve on human rights issues in China. Should he actually attend, it would give Chinese authorities a 'face-saving' way to meet with him. (Such discussions, after all, would be with a representative of Canada). ACCORDINGLY, MR HARPER: We, the undersigned, urge you to adopt this course of action as a constructive way to express Canada's determination to the international spotlight on human rights in China.