Lhamo also speaks and writes Chinese, which China mandated as its primary language for schools and government agencies in a sweeping new “ethnic unity” law implemented July 1. Some Tibetan activists say the new law represents more forced cultural assimilation and extended control over ethnic minorities. Beijing says the selection must comply with Chinese law and receive government approval. From highways to city streets in Lhasa and Shannan, billboards promoting ethnic unity are a constant presence. “Our mother tongue is the Tibetan language,” she said proudly.