Dear mr. Thoelen,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding an incident that occurred at the Antwerp Public Library on the 23rd of this November. Our organization, dedicated to raising awareness about the forced assimilation faced by Tibetan children in Chinese boarding schools, sought to distribute informational folders in the library.

Regrettably, the clerk on duty, who’s name will remain anonymous, refused to allocate space for our materials, citing a desire to remain neutral on the issue. While I respect the importance of maintaining neutrality in a public institution, I believe it is crucial to highlight the inconsistency in the library's stance. The library houses diverse materials, including works on matters such as "Mein Kampf" by Hitler and Das Kapital by Karl Marx. Our relatively minuscule fact based folder surely cannot trump works of such very non neutral nature.

Our intention was not to impose a particular viewpoint but rather to provide information and foster dialogue on an issue affecting the lives of over a million Tibetan children. By denying us access to the public platform, it appears that the library is inadvertently taking a stance and, in essence, engaging in censorship.

I am confident that the Antwerp Public Library values the principles of free speech and diversity of thought. I kindly request a reconsideration of the decision and an assurance that the library remains an inclusive space for the exchange of ideas.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to a resolution that upholds the values of open dialogue and community engagement.

Sincerely,

VTAG Belgium and all petition signees.