WorldSome Tibetans embrace native language despite China’s ‘ethnic unity’ law

A 73-year-old retired nurse who spoke Tibetan throughout her life has only now begun learning to write it. Her choice illustrates how some people in Tibet are holding on to their language and cultural identity. The region is officially autonomous but remains tightly controlled by Beijing. China’s new “ethnic unity” law requires Mandarin to be the main language used in schools and government. The report follows an AP-organized visit conducted with government officials accompanying foreign journalists throughout Tibet.