Is the OP planning to go to Tibet?

Just from the initial post, doesn't say that OP is planning to go, just was involved in political activity.

If OP's primary intention is to go to Tibet then you need to join a tour group. If you do not wish to by a part of a tour group then you need to do a go around which is to first go to China then apply from within China for a visitors permit to Tibet. (accesstibettour.com) or someother company can assist you to get the necessary paperwork.

If you had done any kind of preliminary research on this subject, you would know that mentioning Tibet on your China Visa Application would have your visa rejected. This means that on your initial application, mention you are wanting to see the sights, mention anything and everything or nothing if you prefer, EXCEPT do not mention Lahasa or Tibet. Once you obtain the visa, then be prepared to spend a few days in a major city as you wait for your Tibet visa application to be prepared. (I think 3 days but I can be wrong on this) Take the opportunity to enjoy Beijing, Shanghai or whatever other city you may want to see.