September 27, 2007
Friends,
Tomorrow, September 28, is "Wear a red shirt in support of the protesters in Myanmar" day. From the bottom of my heart I ask each of you as my friend to wear a red shirt to show your support.
http://www.witness.org/index
Many of you may have never heard of Burma/Myanmar before the news coverage this week, but it is a South East Asian nation full of altruistic people who have been exploited by an imposed military dictatorship for the past 17 years despite a free and fair democratic election won by the NLD (National League for Democracy) that should have put them in power in 1990. Aung San Suu Chi, 1991 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate for her peaceful and non-violent struggle under the military dictatorship and leader of the NLD, was imprisoned after the election and has been under house arrest for 12 of our the last 18 years. As a result of this week's riots she has been moved to Insein Prison, a Burmese prison that plays home to many political prisoners and is known for its poor conditions and even torture tactics.
At least 9 people have been confirmed dead, and Burmese authorities continue to open fire on crowds of peaceful monk and civilian protesters. Many world authorities have issued warnings to the Burmese government, but they have continued their violent activity over the past two days despite.
You may or may not have any interest in this issue, but regardless it probably would not be too difficult to select a red shirt to wear from your wardrobe tomorrow in the name of a good cause. :) This may not be the widest spread movement, but it has to start somewhere. Also, the URL above links to a page that outlines other ways of getting involved, including contacting the UN-Secretary General.
I had the privilege of spending three weeks in Myanmar this summer, and can tell you that the Burmese people are among the most generous and kind people I have ever met. If anyone is interested in hearing about my experience, I am happy to share.
Getting off my soap box now. Thanks for listening.
Best,
Susan
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