American University Student Campaign for Burma

Summertime in Burma Town

2010-05-01T09:08:00.000-04:00

Oh my horsefeathers, it's the last Burma news email of the semester! We're all out of classes and (mostly) done with finals! That said, there's more time to read up on what's going on in Burma! So enjoy with a glass of your favorite summer drink, have a great summer, and let's hope we all hear more come autumn!

Pressure Mounts on Energy Giant Chevron to Disclose Revenue in Burma
"When shareholders of the multinational company Chevron gather for their annual meeting in the U.S. city of Houston in late May, they will come face to face with Naing Htoo, whose community has suffered due to the exploits of the energy giant in military-ruled Burma."

The New Silk Road
Focus on that second paragraph

Burma leaders 'shed uniforms for polls'
It's a mass exodus of the army! Wait, what?

Burmese leader says 'saboteurs' threaten national polls
Well, he would know...

China deploys additional troops on Burmese border
Aka, border control!

Report Highlights Lack Of Humanitarian Access To Cyclone Nargis Survivors In Myanmar
" 'Civilians in cyclone-affected areas continue to be subjected to various forms of forced labour, everyday restrictions on movements, and infringements of the rights to freedom of expression and association,' the report said."

TTFN, Ta-ta for now!

Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma FAILS spring finals

2010-04-22T21:21:00.001-04:00

Special Announcements! (I know I'm late, I'll explain in due time) Don't study on a Friday night: Tomorrow night starting at 8pm is CELEBRASIA 3.0!!! At the Tavern! Just $5 and you get amazing awesomeness! And SCB is tabling, how exciting is that, right?!

If you really must study, do it in the Perch. You might find a special SCB surprise :)

Burma explosions leave nine dead
"Bombs planted near Rangoon firms with ties to junta as country prepares for first elections since 1990"
http://english.ntdtv.com/ntdtv_en/ns_asia/2010-04-16/673267148490.html
(if you prefer poor video, enjoy)

New South Wales Will Not Acknowledge Burma's Election
Not all of Australia, just the cool part

Series of explosions reported at hydroelectric project in Burma
Just what we needed, more explosions

Burma's hip-hop resistance spreads message of freedom
"Thxa Soe's music gives country's youth a focus for dissatisfaction with the junta despite strict censorship"
(This was cool!)

Best travels and good luck with finals!

Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burmese spam is probably spicier than ours

2010-04-14T23:38:00.000-04:00

So I opened the AU Burma email address and saw a notice that the blog got a comment! It was spam. Not cool.

Locking down N-supplies
A Bangkok editorial on the DC nuclear summit thing, check out the bottom paragraphs

Burma Opposition Apologizes for Failing to Achieve Democracy
Let's imagine this. The NLD comes up to the podium: We're sorry we can't establish a free nation while our government is killing off its citizens and torturing opposition (aka, us).

Burmese music: Sound of the underground
Good article, but don't click the links, they don't actually go to the music described here (sadly!)

Burma Action Week was AMAZING! Thank you guys for coming and participating and helping and just showing general support! You are also amazing! And we should have lots of money for Burmese refugees! If you want notes from our most recent meeting (including upcoming events) email us!

Best travels,
Anne K Lynch
VP

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma News and Action! HUZZAH!

2010-04-07T23:00:00.002-04:00

Burma Action Week is half way through! Wow, guys, and it's cool! Have you seen ALL of those popsicles? (either on the Quad Monday or the beach until Thursday) And how about those awesome t-shirts of awesomeness? But best so far was tonight's coffee house/open mic night, including the performance of a recent alt-breaker/Burmanator, Thomas Qian! Who was awesome! Clap at your computer because it was that cool (I'll get some pics up on facebook soon if you couldn't come).

Thai unrest, Burma cloud ASEAN summit
ASEAN has its hands full! Darn those juvenile delinquents!

Burma’s largest opposition party to boycott 2010 election
Is it really a boycott if it's not a fair election?

Child Displacement in Burma Documented
"Based on the Thai-Burmese border, the Free Burma Rangers (FBR) and Partners released its findings in a report titled “Displaced Childhoods,” which chronicles conflict areas in eastern Burma."

And in case you didn't know (because I forgot to mention it) SCB joined protesters a week or so ago outside the SPDC attache's place in DC as they were throwing a big dinner party. There are pics on facebook, you should look for them!

And a little plug: I wanna co-lead the Thai/Burma alt-break next winter break. Would anyone be interested in co-leading? Contact sumka@american.edu (Shoshanna Sumka, head of the alt-break program)! Because I really don't wanna do it alone.

Best travels folks! Come to the Burma panel discussion Thursday, noon, McKinley 101! It's gonna be awesome and I am gonna enjoy that tea-leaf salad!!! Wheeeee!!!!!

Anne K Lynch
news girl/VP/not doing marketing homework

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma Action Week: One of many events!

2010-04-03T16:40:00.002-04:00

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/event.php?eid=105951919443440&ref=mf

The above link is to one event of many that SCB is planning for our very own Burma Action Week, starting Monday!

Burmese Popsicles!

2010-03-30T20:55:00.001-04:00

Heya guys! Burma Action Week (bi-week?) is starting up next week and I need volunteers to "color" a LOT (2200) of popsicle sticks red (with ribbon, markers, colored paper, anything) between now and Monday morning (EARLY) when we will flag the quad (a specific section, which I'll go over with volunteers). Monday night we'll have to move them to the McKinley Green for Campus Beautification Day, where they will stay until Wednesday night. Contact me at al3281a@student.american.edu please!

Burma stages landmark army parade
BBC has video: Hello peacocks!

Who is at the heart of Burma's junta?
Meet the rulers of the SPDC!

Indonesian FM Visits Burma
"Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa is expected to meet with Burmese generals this week..."

Best travels, folks!

Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma: Part of a Balanced Breakfast!

2010-03-25T00:48:00.001-04:00

Howdy folks! We've made it to what I call 'prefinals season,' when everyone wants to be outdoors and we're all gonna die if we dare enjoy the nice weather. So take a break! Keep informed! Burma news is good for your health!

Consultations on Myanmar Produce Opposing Views
Honestly, I'm surprised there aren't a lot more views on the subject!

For democracy activist Nyi Nyi Aung, homecoming is bittersweet
"Just eight days ago, Nyi Nyi Aung didn't know whether he would live to see his home again. Imprisoned in the Burmese jungle, he'd been beaten, forced to sleep in a kennel in his own excrement, denied medical treatment and told by captors that his U.S. citizenship didn't matter."

Burma Blames Rebels for Deadly Land Mine Blast
"Burmese state media said a passenger bus hit the explosive last Sunday..."

Burma's long, hard road to democracy-- Bangkok Post
No kidding!

Time for your Irish Coffee! Toodles!

Anne K Lynch
aka newsgirl

P.S. Get excited! Burma Action Week is hitting AU in early April!

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma news for your morning commute!

2010-03-18T08:09:00.001-04:00

Ha! No I'm not dead-- I had a paper to write yesterday/last night. So here's the latest Burma news!

Credible Election In Burma
"Burma's military government has unveiled a new national election law that disqualifies leading opposition figures from running for office."

UN Investigator Accuses Burma of Systematic Rights Violations
Really? I never woulda guessed!
"He says an estimated one million people are excluded from citizenship on the basis of their ethnicity and are considered illegal immigrants."

Burmese Residents Rally Against Discrimination
In Indiana

Burmese refugees face starvation in Bangladesh
"The Rohingya issue might well be the most desperate, immediate refugee situation in Asia right now."

Burma releases jailed US activist Nyi Nyi Aung
The good news!

Cheers to an awesome, sunny day guys! Best travels,

Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

"Frankly, Burma, I don't give a damn!"

2010-03-03T23:09:00.002-05:00

Enough with the excuses!

Nobel winners push for Myanmar regime to face court (READ IT!)
"Rutha was pregnant when she was forced to serve as a porter at a military camp in Myanmar. There, she was raped nightly and her father killed when he refused to allow soldiers to take his 22-year-old daughter."-- Reuters

Thousands of Burmese Migrants Miss NV Deadline
"'We will not be lenient,' said Supat Gukun, the deputy director-general of Thailand's Education Department..."

U.S. increasingly wary as Burma deepens military relationship with North Korea
We were strangers in the night... exchanging glances...

What Obama Can Do for Burma
Written by Aung Din of the U.S. Campaign for Burma for the Wall Street Journal, a quick summary of Burma's current state

And don't forget to watch the Oscars on Sunday to cheer on "Burma VJ"! If you haven't seen it, I think the National Archives will be hosting a showing Saturday night!

Thank you for tuning in to this week's installment of your weekly Burma news. Everyone have a fun spring break!

Anne K Lynch

P.S. 11am-1pm come see me and Torin tabling in MGC to see how you can get involved and get our government to do some action for Burma!

P.S.S. 6:30pm Thursday at Ward 1 on AU's campus: Go see "Stop Femicide in Guatemala with Norma Cruz! It's a great cause, a phenomenal activist, and much of what you'll hear is completely relevant to Burma. (here are some facebook details) Please? Because I have a class and REALLY REALLY REALLY want to go but can't and would like to hear about it.

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Status Report!

2010-03-01T17:48:00.003-05:00

Hellooooooooooo Burmanators!

We had a short SCB meeting a little while ago and those of us who came missed the rest of you terribly. So if you would be so kind, we'd feel much better if everyone sent some kind of status report on whatever projects you're working on (Burma Action Week related or otherwise). That, or please show up Tuesday night (4:30pm, MGC) so we can share stories then.

Updates from today's meeting:

The Tavern is more or less reserved for the evening of April 7th for a 'coffeehouse.' Shoshanna has been asked to MC. If you know musicians or performers, can you ask them about participating?
Kid Power Inc. is interested and sent me tantalizing details... a week ago... currently we're waiting for their verdict on specific dates and times.
The social justice branch of the Methodist students has been contacted about cosponsoring a movie night. No reply thus far.
Ani (performing tomorrow at 9:30 club) is said to want tabling at the event, however the club management needed to okay it.
The Quad (like the Tavern) is more or less reserved for 'flagging' April 5th (morning) through 6th (night). We talked about getting large red or red-marked ('saffron') popsicle sticks to represent the roughly 2200 political prisoners of the SPDC and including a couple bigger displays of specific profiles and general information. We'd probably get the sticks ready the weekend before, put them up that morning on the 5th, then take them down late Tuesday.
SCB has offered to contribute some money to the March 23 Charity Variety Show, in which the winner gets to choose a charity to donate fund-raised money to.
Sounds like holding the Saffron Rave-olution at the Dancing Crab has many fewer liabilities than trying to find a private house...
We're really wondering about how plans are going for the library photo display thing, Alex's chevron thing, and the panel discussion.

Also, don't forget to come by the MGC tables tomorrow or Thursday!

Best o' luck for midterms!

Anne K Lynch

PERFORM! for the SCB Coffee House!

2010-02-25T16:18:00.000-05:00

AUSCB is looking for folks who would be willing to play a Coffee House in order to raise money for a Burmese Community living on a dump in Mae Sot, Thailand. We are still waiting on space confirmation, but the tentative date is Wednesday April 7, from 7pm-9pm.

We need about 7 acoustic acts to play for about 10 minutes each. If you're a musician, or know any AU students who would be willing to get on stage and show off their talents, please respond to this thread or email:

auburma@gmail.com

We look forward to hearing from you!

Amanda

The Burma News Cafe!

2010-02-24T14:45:00.002-05:00

Good afternoon, my lovelies! One order of Burma news, coming right up!

Ethnic Repression May Increase Ahead of Burma Elections
"The report also puts forward the concern that the upcoming elections this year will intensify the already severe repression of political critics..."

Burma's youth rapping for change
Y'all have probably already heard about Generation Wave. Now the BBC has, too!

Burma Imprisons Buddhist Monk
I'm upset!

Burmese Refugees Persecuted in Bangladesh
"In a campaign that seems to have accelerated since October... ethnic Rohingya refugees who have been living for years in Bangladesh are being seized, beaten and forced back to Myanmar..."

You get two sides with your meal:

1) On March 2, there will be an “International Tribunal on Crimes against Women of Burma” in New York. Learn more here.

2) We recently received this news from Free Burma Rangers: "

Report from FBR relief team on the ground helping the IDPs:
On 19 February, 2010, Burma Army troops from MOC 7 attacked the school at Ta U Plaw and wounded Saw Eh Kaw Thaw, 12 years old, and Saw Ree Re, 10 years old. Saw Eh Kaw Thaw was wounded in his right hand and Saw Ree Re was wounded in his right leg. We (K5 FBR Luthaw)... helped to take care of the boys. They are ok now. But another boy, Saw Roe Bee Moo,16 years old, was wounded deeply in the side and stomach. We tried to send him to a clinic but on the 21st of February he died. We are very sad about this."

To learn more about FBR, their website is http://www.freeburmarangers.org/

Best travels,
Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Important Notice/Burma bees

2010-02-17T21:30:00.000-05:00

Of course all of the bees are voluntary.

Burmese Officials Celebrate Kim Jong Il's Birthday
Be concerned...

Burma Sentences 4 Activists to Hard Labor as UN Human Rights Envoy Visits
Be appalled...
UN Rights Envoy Meets Prisoners in Burma
Be suspicious...

27,000 Burmese pass ID process
Be outraged!

IMPORTANT! If you would like to CONTINUE to receive Burma news and SCB updates, please RESPOND TO THIS BLOG by e-mailing auburma@gmail.com! We're working on a new listserv. Thanks!

Best travels,

Anne K Lynch
aka newsgirl

Burma vs. Snowmaggedon!

2010-02-11T08:35:00.000-05:00

Good morning folks! I hope you haven't been snowmaggedon-ed too much over the past week, although something tells me we all have. Let's hope a little Burma update brightens your day!

Myanmar refugees seek Orissa Govt.'s attention at their neglect
Burmese refugees struggle in India

Elections mean nothing to Myanmar's ethnic armies
"We cannot work with the SPDC, we are their enemies," Yawdmuang said. "We are prepared to talk but the SPDC cannot accept our proposal. They say we must lay down our weapons, nothing else."

Burma: Conviction of Kyaw Zaw Lwin

RSS Feeds RSS Feed Thai Government, UN, Civic Groups Look to Protect Burma Refugees
"The Thai military last Friday tried to push the Karen back to Burma, which they fled last year to avoid fighting between Karen rebels and the Burmese military."

Obviously, we weren't able to hold meetings this week. I imagine we'll be making those up next week. In the mean time, I'm going to soon be sending out an e-mail about the various works-in-progress that Student Campaign for Burma is up to this semester. If you're interested in helping in any of these activities, please e-mail me (al3281a@student.american.edu) or come to our next (less snowy) meeting!

Best travels,

Anne K Lynch
VP

Burma: A Symphony of Chaos

2010-02-03T21:35:00.001-05:00

Howdy do, everybody! Tonight, we will be hearing a symphony of chaos! Let us begin!

‘Burma VJ’ nominated for Oscar
If you hadn't heard already!!!

Japanese officials interview Burmese refugees
"Japan agreed in 2008 to accept 90 Burmese refugees from northern Thailand's Mae La camp over three years, making it the first Asian country to agree to resettle refugees on its soil."

Burma Absent from UN Security Council's February Agenda
Say what?!

3000 Refugees Under Thai Pressure To Teturn To Burma
I know, I know, it says 'Teturn,' but if you look at it, there's some important tidbits of info

Special: 2010 Elections Update!
Electoral preparations dominating junta actions

The maestro bows, curtain falls, the audience exits.

Thank you.

Anne Lynch
VP (aaa! when did that happen?!)

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Burma is never late! Just me...

2010-01-27T21:31:00.002-05:00

Good evening, one and all! SCB is keeping busy, but can never keep up with these road runners! Look at all that newsness!

China casts nervous eye at erstwhile ally Myanmar
A long look at just what these lovers get from each other
China A Reluctant Refuge For People From Myanmar (NY Times)
(more from Burmese point of view)

Groups urge Karen rethink
"Human rights activists are calling on Thailand to shelve a plan to send Karen refugees back to Burma..."

Verdict Postponed in Trial of Burmese-American Activist
"The lawyer for Kyaw Zaw Lwin told reporters Wednesday the judge postponed the verdict until February 10."

Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi 'to be freed from house arrest'
"Burma's opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, will be freed when her house arrest ends in November, according to a government minister."

With that, I wish you all a merry February!

Anne K Lynch (aka, news girl)

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com

Welcome to the new Student Campaign for Burma!

2010-01-24T00:45:00.000-05:00

Howdy folks! Guess what? We're full of fresh alt-breakers! Yay! We had (what I hope was) the first of several meetings to come this past Wednesday night, when a few of us more or less decided things we could do, things we wanted to do, and things we needed to wait and see for. One thing I could do was contact an organization that originally wanted to work with AUSCB last fall but never really came to fruition. So I e-mailed them, Kid Power Inc. Here's the response:

" Dear Anne,

I am so glad that you contacted me. We are still very interested in working with you and I am excited that your students have such a recent experience to speak with our students about.

In the past. special interest series can come in two forms.

The first is that we are talking to our kids about organizing their own little non-profits this semester where they choose a cause and then work this semester to develop a unique fund raising technique, learn more about the needs that need to be addresses and send money to the fund/project they choose. On your end this would require a weekly or every other week commitment for the next couple of months. We would like your group to come and talk to the kids about the cause and work along side them as they run their project.

Another option is doing a "seminar series" where we essentially do the same thing as the non-profit idea but on a smaller 4-5 week scale.

Or you are welcome to come once, share your experience and do an activity. You can commit to this and then see if you would like to get involved further.

What do you think?

Katie"

What do you guys think? Let's have some input!

Anne

Burma hasn't killed me yet!

2010-01-18T20:34:00.000-05:00

Hey folks! Sorry about the delay in welcoming you into a new semester and new year! I went on the Thai/Burma alt break and got food poisoning on the way back last week. So without further ado, your weekly news update recommences!

As poll looms, Myanmar still building parliament
Observing the eerie new capital city as construction on the Parliament building continues...

Burma leader Than Shwe gives election warning
From Jan 4

ASEAN should not be taken in by unprincipled Burma
"The junta's generals are well-bred gentlemen in front of the Asean counterparts where as they are the inhumane tormenters to their own populace"

India Can Move the Needle on Burma
"Delhi should be more clever about using its own values and role as a regional leader to press for political reform."-- Wall Street Journal

Burma's Supreme Court hears final Suu Kyi appeal
Burma has a court system??? Who knew!

With that, let's hope for better news next week! Keep Haiti in your thoughts,

Your news gal,
Anne K Lynch

P.S. Check out the latest Alt-Break's blog at http://auburmabusters.blogspot.com/

Did you think Burma had forgotten you?

2009-12-12T16:48:00.000-05:00

Finals (for the most part) are done with. We're less than a month from 2010. I send y'all best wishes for a restful break and a happy New Year!

U.N. Security Council Criticized for Failure to Act Against Abuses in Burma
"The appeal, on International Human Rights Day, came as Burmese opposition groups warned that with controversial elections coming up next year, the country’s “most dangerous days” lay ahead."

US Seeks Access to Detained Dissident
"The United States on Friday sought immediate consular access to American national Kyaw Zaw Lwin (aka Nyi Nyi Aung), who is currently on a hunger strike in a Burmese prison and whose health is reported to be deteriorating."

Burma junta official meets Aung San Suu Kyi
"Burma's pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has met a government minister in Rangoon in the third such meeting since the beginning of October."

Anne K Lynch

BBC news for today!

2009-12-04T08:46:00.002-05:00

Page last updated at 12:16 GMT, Friday, 4 December 2009

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version

Burma's Suu Kyi appeal possible

Suu Kyi's extended detention was condemned outside Burma

The Supreme Court in Burma says it may allow the pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, to appeal against her extended detention.

The court said it would hear the case on December 21.
Ms Suu Kyi was sentenced to a further 18 months under house arrest earlier this year.
She was found guilty in August of violating her house arrest by harbouring an American well-wisher who swam to her lakeside home.
The court in Yangon posted the announcement on its notice board. This follows the rejection of an initial appeal in October.
"The Supreme Court decided to hear Aung San Suu Kyi's request. Lawyers have to present arguments before the court in December," a Burmese official told AFP.
Serving the additional time of her sentence would keep Ms Suu Kyi in detention during Burma's first elections in two decades, scheduled for next year.
Burma's military rulers have kept the Nobel Peace Prize winner and leader of the opposition National League for Democracy party (NLD) in some form of detention for more than 14 of the last 20 years.

Burma: A Consistency of Rotten Milk!

2009-11-30T21:50:00.001-05:00

EheheheheHAHAHA!!! I'm losing my mind! Which is exactly the reason why I turn to Burma for stability-- at least its consistent!

Netherlands - Verhagen speaks with Thant Myint-U about Burma
Exciting: I've never found a link from this news source relating to Burma before!

Burma should democratize on its own
... says ASEAN

A Husband Whose Wife is a Political Prisoner
"We have to face them. It's what the families of political prisoners have to endure."

Junta Continues War on Monks
"He said four youths who were in contact with monks in Mandalay were detained in September. 'Their family and relatives do not know where they are now,' he said."

With this, I wish you all luck on your finals, eloquence in your papers, and safety in your travels coming up!

Your crazy news girl,
Anne K Lynch

P.S. Thanks to the person who commented on the last post!!! I appreciate it!

Have yourself a Burma Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

Coming up next: In this three-part series, the Burma-Hallmark channel presents you with a compelling tale of Turkey Day excitement and heart-warming atrocities! (Yes, I know I need a break )

UN General Assembly Condemns Human Rights Violations in Burma, North Korea
Next step: DO something please!

Burma: End arrests of activists and continue aid after Cyclone Nargis
Junta say "Amnesty International: Fill out a complaint form and we will get back to you after you listen to 15 years of muzak!"

Selection Time Precedes Election Time in Burma
A 2-pg article, some detailed information about upcoming elections

Cheerio folks! Enjoy the holiday! ...hey... is that where Cheerios gets its name?!

the news girl,
Anne K Lynch

‘Burma VJ’ shortlisted for 2009 Oscars'

2009-11-19T10:20:00.002-05:00

http://www.mizzima.com/news/world/3067-burma-vj-shortlisted-for-2009-oscars-.html

!!!!!!

Burmese Olympics: SPARTA!!!

2009-11-18T23:17:00.001-05:00

Wow, there has been so much news around this week, guys, that I could hardly narrow down my choices! I highly encourage you to google search Burma news yourself, just to see the enormity of my task. Then, say, "Golly gee whiz, she MUST love us!" and then go do something productive.

Burma; third most corrupt country
Next year guys, we'll be number one! Go team!

Burma ferry death toll passes 30
"An official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that 23 of the dead were female and eight male."

Burma Considers Private Education
Because let's face it: Burma's grades in public school have just not been up to muster the last several years.

Why Obama Will Meet with a Leader of Burma's Junta
"But dialogue with dictators, goes the new U.S. thinking that is being applied from Iran to North Korea, is now seen as preferable to not talking and cutting off any chance at reconciliation."

Three cheers for the number 3 corrupt nation! That's a bronze medal in the Olympics, mind you.

Best travels,

Anne K Lynch

Burma is like a toaster on fire

2009-11-10T14:03:00.001-05:00

Gah! The papers don't stop piling on!!! I thought midterms were over! Quick, I'll take anything else!

Thai Border on Guard for Drugs From Myanmar
If you're willing to question your country, switch out 'Thailand' for 'US' and 'Myanmar' for 'Mexico'

Burmese Junta Says It Will Release Suu Kyi
So... are their noses doing the Pinocchio?

Asian Nations Welcome Obama, Renewed US Engagement
Including ASEAN

Irish Bishop Michael Smith visits Burma
The luck of the Irish may do 'em some good!

Brought to you by the Burma news girl,

Anne K Lynch

--
American University Student Campaign for Burma
Email: auburma@gmail.com
Website: http://auburma.blogspot.com/

News follow up

2009-11-05T17:15:00.001-05:00

Follow up for the previous news! (Thanks for sending me the link!)

U.S. official visits Myanmar, Suu Kyi
"However, while U.S. officials are now sitting down with the generals, Washington has said it will maintain the sanctions until talks result in change."

Thank you, Burma, for making my life seem manageable.

2009-11-02T23:27:00.000-05:00

November is here! Yay for the end of midterms! Boo for the start of finals prep/ final papers! At least the good news coming out of Burma will calm our college nerves.

Myanmar Rohingyas swap suppression for squalor
The refugee dilemma

Senior U.S. officials traveling to Burma
"The last senior U.S. official to travel to Burma, also known as Myanmar, was Madeleine Albright, then U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, in 1995," back when I was in kindergarten.

Karen Fear Military Offensive near Planned Dam
I was going to post "Suu Kyi Unhappy with Restrictions" but that seemed pretty obvious

Journalists, Volunteer Relief Workers Arrested in Rangoon
"Members of the independent relief group, Lin Lat Kyal, were among those arrested, allegedly for accepting relief donations from abroad."

For your personal enjoyment...

Yeah, I lied, no good news this week. But hey, I bet our problems don't look so big now!

Anne K Lynch

Burma news: Special Edition!

2009-10-29T07:44:00.000-04:00

Everybody thank Christie from the Alt-Break group for finding this article!

Is Burma softening its stance?
By Alastair Leithead
BBC Asia correspondent

(I had to mention this guy's name, I mean, how many Alastairs do you ever meet?)

Anne K Lynch

BY THE WAY...

2009-10-28T17:59:00.001-04:00

So y'all know, I would love to see some comments on this thing, anonymous or not. Something so that I know I'm not just writing to myself.

Thank you!

Anne K Lynch

Burma Halloween: Scare the neighborhood as Than Shwe!

2009-10-28T17:57:00.000-04:00

I know! I'm late! But I finally got the pipeline story I've been looking for because of it!

Japan: Burma Could Ease Aung San Suu Kyi's Detention
"Japanese officials say a top Burmese official has suggested the military regime could ease restrictions on opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi..." but my uncle's wife's sister said...

Rohingyas Forced to Work on Border Fence
"The Rohingya are a stateless Muslim minority who face severe discrimination in Burma."

Rights Groups Call for China to Halt Construction of Pipeline in Burma
"...abuses appeared to have started in the project area, including attacks on local fishermen."

Your local news girl,
Anne K Lynch

P.S. Not exactly on topic, but because I have self-interest here:

Interested in Buddhism? Ever wonder why AU doesn't have a student organization for Buddhists? Whether you are a religious Buddhist, a philosophical Buddhist, or just curious about Buddhism, come to Kay Lounge today, October 28, 9:15 p.m., for a short period to assess student interest and discuss what a nonsectarian Buddhist youth group would look like. Contact Anne Lynch at al3281a@student.american.edu or Christine Gettings at gettings@american.edu for more information.

Don't hurt me!

Ward, "Ignite for Burma," 2:30PM

2009-10-26T10:46:00.002-04:00

Today the AU Student Campaign for Burma is hosting “Ignite for Burma,” an event with over 100 colleges and universities in the U.S. participating to spread awareness for Burma by addressing the Senate. The event will start at 2:30PM and finish by 4. We will meet in Ward, watch Crossing Midnight, and then hold a short campaign on Burma's behalf, addressing our respective senators. Food and drinks provided. Hope to see you there!

Meeting location:

· Main lobby of Ward; closest side to the main entrance.

Contact:

· Please call with any questions: (850) 361-5263

Fall takes breaks, but Burma doesn't!

2009-10-18T23:04:00.002-04:00

Howdy all, once again! I hope you all had wonderful fall breaks if you're an AU student. And if you're not, well I hope you have you self a merry little fall break anyways!

Burmese border guards abduct seven Bangladeshi fishermen
Fishers of men

Rename the Streets for Neda
Primarily an article about Iran, but there's a good paragraph or two in there about Burma. And besides, the fight for human rights is universal.

Hopes high for Burma on Asean Summit’s eve
"The 15th Asean Summit during which the right commission will be adopted will be held in Hua Hin, Thailand..."

New Constitution Guarantees Junta Immunity: Report
“Impunity Prolonged: Burma and its 2008 Constitution”...

With that, I conclude Burma's weekly news update a few days early (midterms= very yes)

news girl Anne K Lynch

Ignite for Burma! Announcement

2009-10-18T22:40:00.000-04:00

In case anybody didn't get the e-mail, here's news on "Ignite for Burma!" E-mail auburma@gmail.com (for that last part) and ask to be put on the listserv if you didn't receive the e-mail and would like to get some in the future!

Dear Supporter,

A lot of you have asked how you can get involved with Student Campaign for Burma this year; next Monday, Oct. 26th is your opportunity as the Student Campaign for Burma will host "Ignite for Burma." Below are the details. We hope you can make it!

In Solidarity,
Student Campaign for Burma
American University
Website: http://auburma.blogspot.com/

What is Ignite for Burma?

"Ignite for Burma" is a student-led campaign of over 100 colleges and universities around the country that will, next week, collectively and simultaneously demand action for Burma.

How will it work?

This event is meant to be short but effective:
We will do a screening of the short (30 min.) but powerful new documentary Crossing Midnight, a story that documents health aid workers working in Burma's conflict zones.
Following the film, a phone-in campaign will begin where each attendee will contact their Senator's office and demand action for Burma.
**FOOD AND DRINKS WILL BE SERVED**

When/Where is it?

· The event will be held in Ward (Room TBA) beginning at 2:30PM. The event will end by 4PM.

How do I sign-up?

Simply accept the invitation to this event by clicking "Add to Calendar." You will receive another e-mail as the event's date nears.
If your e-mail operating system does not have a calendar feature, please just reply back to this email.

Burma: Supersized!

2009-10-13T19:41:00.000-04:00

Australian Fashion Group Announces Burma Trade Ban
No more catwalks in Rangoon!

Trial of Burmese-American to begin
There really is no going home.

Burma, Bangladesh in Warship Standoff
Another game of who's got more guns (Sounds like a video game)

Burmese elections set for next year. So what?
Yay for opinionated people!

Burmese Trafficking Victims Freed in Raid
Thailand gets a "B" for improvement!

Than Shwe Meets India’s Army Chief
The bad news is...

Thank you for tuning in for an EXTRA portion of Burma news this week! Until next time,

Anne K Lynch

Burma VJ

2009-10-10T20:21:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the delay here! I'm kind of all over the place this weekend.

Thursday at 5:30, the documentary "Burma VJ" was shown at Katzen as part of the annual Human Rights Film Series (next week is a documentary about Wangari Maathai. Unrelated, but still cool!). I had never seen the documentary, and to be honest I think few have because only the film makers have the right to show it. In summary, it told the story of the Saffron Revolution-- from its roots in the unrest of the people caused by a wild increase in gas prices to the cataclysmic end-- from the point of view of "Joseph." He's part of the Democratic Voice of Burma, a news organization the sneaks footage out of Burma (no easy task). We never see Joseph's face, but his narration over a compilation of film paints a clear picture of his role, the role of DVB, and the role of the monks during the Saffron Revolution. Of particular interest (to me anyways) was the choice not to edit out the footage their cameras recorded while hidden in plastic bags, duffel bags, and jacket pockets.
The images were both startling and enlightening, particularly afterwords when one of the monks, U Gawasita, said that the film didn't begin to show just how bad the situation actually was. The monks explained that the monks of Burma hadn't planned on joining the sudden fervor of protests but that they joined because of their duty to the people. They further explained reasons why they thoroughly disapprove of the 2008 Constitution of Burma (and the manner in which it was passed). We (the audience) and the panel discussed topics relating to the film and Burma for about an hour-- even the translator, who was a student protester in 1988, got his two cents in.

All in all, a successful event!

News girl returns with more updates!

2009-10-06T14:19:00.002-04:00

Howdy one and all! News should be free and organized. One out of two isn't a bad start!

Landslides in Burma kill three people
"...the fatalities occurred on Saturday in the southernmost town of Kawthaung, which borders Thailand."

Foster homes sought for Burmese youth
We can help Burma without even going there!

Suu Kyi in Burma government talks
"Reports suggest she has softened her views on sanctions in recent times, concluding that they are adversely affecting the lives of ordinary Burmese."
Overview of Burma sanctions
A quick reference, from BBC

Also, come see "Burma VJ" on Thursday! 5:30PM! Katzen! IT'S FREE!!!! And some of our good friends, U Gawasita and U Agga Nya (monks from Burma) will be there! Watch the trailer.

Signing off,
Anne K Lynch/ news-bane of your existence

First news on the Senate protest

2009-09-30T21:39:00.000-04:00

Hiya folks! If you made it to the protest of the Senate Foreign Relations Asia subcommittee meeting today, you are awesome! If you did not, you're still awesome, but we hope to see you next time around! I checked the web news outlets and here's a nice sum-up of what's been going on.

Welcome new Burma-news readers! And winks to the ol' loyalists!

2009-09-28T22:50:00.000-04:00

Ta da! Welcome to this week's edition of your AU Burma Wire! With all the latest Burma news, who could complain? (That's not an invitation, btw)

Burma Embassy Protesters Mark 2nd Anniversary of Military Crackdown
"Protesters have demonstrated in front of the Burmese Embassy in Bangkok to mark the second anniversary of the military crackdown on Buddhist monk-led calls for democracy." [Don't ask me why it's in present tense, I've no idea]

China Urges Burma to Protect Rights of Chinese Nationals
Because we all know how well the junta treats Burmese Nationals...

Embracing Burma's Generals
(op-ed) And you thought the Wall Street Journal only covered economic news these days!

U.S. Planning New Overtures to Burma
"Increased Humanitarian Aid, Round of Talks Aimed at Improving Relations"

Some other updates:

Wednesday, Sept 30 there will be a protest for Burma at the Congress building. If interested, please meet outside Union Station at 1PM, I believe by the fountain (if you see people in green shirts, good). If you want more information, which of course you do since you're highly educated activist types, try here.

Next Thursday at 5:30PM (methinks in Kay's basement) there will be a showing of the video "Burma VJ." You should see it, movies are fun.

Anyways, it's been great chatting!

Anne K Lynch (aka Current Events Coordinator, although I think just 'news girl' would suffice)

AU SCB Returns to the Blogosphere!

2009-09-25T17:33:00.006-04:00

Hello all! After a year of inactivity, AU's Student Campaign for Burma is returning to the blogosphere, and couldn't be more excited. With any luck, http://auburma.blogspot.com/ will become your hub for information, news, and events as we work towards democracy in Burma. Let's start off with this announcement:

Dear Washingtonians,

Senator Jim Webb is hosting a hearing on Burma policy. We want to make sure

that the democracy movement is well represented and that the Junta's crimes

against humanity are discussed.

We will have to get there early in order to secure seats. Please meet us at

the fountain in front of Union Station at 1pm sharp. We will give out

T-shirts with a strong message for Webb and head over to the hearing

together.

Let me know if you have any additional questions.
Hope to see you there!

Interested? See this to learn more and e-mail us at AUBurma@gmail.com if you want to attend. The more, the merrier!

Toodles!

Invitation!

2008-09-16T14:19:00.000-04:00

Burma Freedom marchers originating from Portland, Oregon; two Buddhist monks; and four activists are arriving to our area on Sunday September 14 evening in commemoration of 20 th anniversary of the 1988 September 18 bloody massacre and the first anniversary of Saffron Revolution.

Please join these freedom marchers on,
Demonstration rallies on September 16 and 17 afternoon at 3:00 PM at illegal SPDC Embassy in 2300 S Street Washington DC, then march to Embassy of China (it's a few blocks away).

Rally in front of the White House on September 18 afternoon at 3:00 PM.

**** Food, drinks and expenses donation are welcome

Cyclone Nargis

2008-05-06T15:22:00.000-04:00

Hey all -

Please consider making a generous donation now to assist the people of Burma. The US Campaign for Burma will ensure that your support goes DIRECTLY to humanitarian organizations that aid the people of Burma, rather than passing funds through the regime. Here is the link:

http://uscampaignforburma.org/cyclone-nargis-devistates-burma

Donation drive at AU for Burmese refugees

2008-02-14T13:29:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone!! We will be collecting the following items on Thursday, February 21st from 9:30am to Noon, and from 5pm to 6:30pm in MGC:

1. Kitchen Items
Place setting of tableware (fork, knife, spoon)
Place setting of dishes (plate, bowl, cup)
Pots/Pans, including sauce pan, frying pan, and one baking dish
Mixing/Serving bowls
Kitchen utensils
Can opener
Baby items as needed (i.e. bottles, baby silverware, etc.)

2. Linens and Other Household Items
Towels
Sheets and blankets
Pillow and pillowcases
Alarm clock
Paper, pens, and/or pencils
Light bulbs

3. Cleaning Supplies
Dish soap
Bathroom/kitchen cleaner
Sponges or cleaning rags and/or paper towels
Laundry detergent
Waste baskets
Mop or Broom
Trash bags

4. Toiletries
Toilet paper
Shampoo
Soap
Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Personal hygiene items as appropriate

5. Winter Clothing
Gloves/Mittens
Scarves
Hats
Coats
Umbrellas

Questions? Email us at: auburma[at]gmail[dot]com

Stand up to Big Oil Interests in Burma!!

2007-11-21T17:31:00.000-05:00

Hey all--

This Thanksgiving, please sign this petition put together by Avaaz.org calling for a boycott of Chevron, Total, and all other oil companies related to the Yadana Pipeline in Burma. Forward this on to your friends, relatives and associates.

http://www.avaaz.org/en/burma_corporate/8.php/?cl=39355835

Doy-a-yay!

Action Against Total in the UK

2007-11-12T14:37:00.000-05:00

See below for information from our friends at Total out of Burma:

TOTAL OUT OF BURMA DAY OF ACTION
Saturday 24 November 2007
Protest at TOTAL petrol stations around the UK

TOTAL OIL: FUELLING OPPRESSION IN BURMA
French oil company TOTAL is the fourth largest oil company in the world and Europe's largest investor in Burma. TOTAL is in a joint venture with Burma's dictatorship in the Yadana gas project in southern Burma, which earns the regime hundreds of millions of dollars every year. Since the violent crackdown against demonstrators in Burma in October, TOTAL has been lobbying the French government to keep oil and gas out of tighter EU sanctions against the regime. So far it has been successful.
Aung San Suu Kyi, Burma's democracy leader, has said that "TOTAL is the biggest supporter of the military regime in Burma".

With the media's attention waning, TOTAL thinks it has weathered the storm of public outrage. Now is the time to show them it's only just beginning - join the TOTAL out of Burma Day of Action.

Tell us you're interested: totaloutofburma@gmail.com
See what's been happening and what's planned: http://www.totaloutofburma.blogspot.com

HOW TO JOIN THE DAY OF ACTION There are two ways to take part in the day of action:

1. Join a garage protest. Email your name and location to totaloutofburma@gmail.com or call 07939 975 085 and we'll try to match you with a local protest (previous protests have already occurred in Bradford, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, London, Oxford & St Albans). As protests are confirmed we'll add them to the blog: http://www.totaloutofburma.blogspot.com.
2. Organise your own action - there are several hundred TOTAL petrol stations in the UK to choose from. Follow these three easy steps:
a. Find your local TOTAL garage using the handy Service Station Finder at http://www.total.co.uk or check the google map of UK TOTAL garages being created at http://tinyurl.com/2ftvdf.
b. Get some simple visual materials together, plus some leaflets or petitions, and publicise it to your friends, contacts and local press. If you want the details listed publicly (e.g. on the blog) email them to totaloutofburma@gmail.com or call Paul on 07939 975 085.
c. Hold the protest! Take some pictures, post a report on Indymedia.org.uk and send the link to totaloutofburma@gmail.com. Plus write to TOTAL's head office telling them what you've been up to.

Basic placard designs, petitions, leaflets and a model press release are downloadable from: http://www.totaloutofburma.blogspot.com.

Burma Human Rights event tomorrow

2007-11-12T14:33:00.000-05:00

The Human Rights Situation
in Burma
History, Politics, and International Support

Guest Speaker Aung Din, Policy Director and
Co-Founder of the U.S. Campaign for Burma

Tuesday, November 13
12:00-1:20pm
WCL Room 528
Lunch will be served

Aung Din served over four years behind bars as a political prisoner in Burma after organizing and helping to lead the country’s nationwide pro-democracy uprising in 1988 as Vice Chairperson of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), the largest national student organization and outlawed by the regime.

Sponsored by the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) and the Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law

Protest Total in Burma WED Nov. 7th

2007-11-06T23:48:00.000-05:00

From our friends at Total Protester:

Protest Total in Burma
Wednesday, November 7th 2007 8:00AM - 6:00PM EST.

Join now in our TOTAL PROTEST through FAX and PHONE and EMAIL

Burma Global Action Network is holding a protest of Total through faxes and phone calls on Wednesday, November 7th, during the release of Total’s third quarter earnings. Total Corp. holds a 31.2% share in the Yadana natural gas project. According to theBurma Global Action Network, Total pays large sums in gas royalties to the current military junta. Protesters are demanding that the corporation place these royalties in escrow for the legitimate elected government of Burma, headed by Aung San Suu Kyi. These funds are allegedly being pocketed by the military leaders.

In addition to the escrow, protesters will also be asking Total to increase contributions to humanitarian efforts in Burma through accredited non-government organizations.

Calls and faxes to the U.S. Headquarters office in New Jersey will be placed from 8 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time).

If you have more questions please email totalprotester@gmail.com.
ORVisit our Facebook group: http://oberlin.facebook.com
Youtube Video: http://youtube.com/watch?v=bwPNxy9YB9E

Callers are being advised to speak to a live person within Investor Relations to register their concern, protesting Total’s activity in Burma and asking that they put the royalty money in escrow for the elected government of Burma or sell their stake in the Yadana project.Below is the contact info for each Total office throughout the world.

Investor Relations North America
Total American Services, Inc.
100 Pavonia Avenue, Suite 401
Jersey City, N.J. 07310USA
Tel.: +1 201 626 3500
Fax: +1 201 626 4004

Total Headquarters
2, place de la Coupole
La Défense 692078 Paris
La Défense Cedex
France
Tel.: + 33 (0) 1 47 44 45 46

Investor Relations France
Total
Direction de la Communication Financière/Investor Relations
2, place de la Coupole
La Défense 692078 Paris
La Défense Cedex
France
Tel.: +33 (0)1 47 44 58 53
Fax: +33 (0)1 47 44 58 24

Panty Power update!!

2007-11-05T14:47:00.000-05:00

IT'S TIME FOR PANTY POWER IN DC!

We are getting together tomorrow (Tuesday November 6) to pack and send our panties to the Burmese military generals. We will write notes on them, and then have them boxed and Fedexed for delivery to the BurmeseEmbassy on Friday November 9. (see below for info onthe global action)

Time: 8:15 pm-9:15 pm
Location: Georgetown University, New North 311http://explore.georgetown.edu/locations/index.cfm?Action=View&LocationID=26

Please bring friends and female undies. Our goal is to have about 200 panties. So we are asking each one of your to to bring about 5 to 10. THE MORE THE BETTER!

If you can come, send us an email.
Nyo Nyo(nyosquared@yahoo.com)
Hnin Hnin (h2pyne@yahoo.com)
Alex ( alex_ergo@hotmail.com)

Don't forget to check out the Panties for Peace game:http://readyaimvote.com/pantiesforpeace/readyaimvote.swf

Upcoming Event at Woodrow Wilson Center

2007-11-01T11:59:00.000-04:00

What Next? Political Developments in Burma and Implications for the Future

November 07 2007, 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Event Details:

Aung Din, policy director, U.S. Campaign for Burma

Ingrid Jordt, assistant professor of anthropology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Priscilla Clapp, former U.S. charge d'affaires in Burma

What lies ahead for Burma?

This program will examine recent events in the country and their potential impact on the political opposition and the pro-democracy movement; on relations between monks and the military; and on prospects for transition toward democracy in Burma.

AUNG DIN is policy director and cofounder of the U.S. Campaign for Burma, a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy and activist group promoting human rights, freedom, and democracy in Burma. He is also country representative for the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners-Burma (AAPP), which is based on the Thai-Burma border. He was jailed as a political prisoner for more than four years after organizing and helping lead Burma’s pro-democracy uprising in 1988. At the time, he was serving as vice chairman of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), which was then the country’s largest national student organization.

INGRID JORDT is assistant professor of anthropology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her research interests include processes of political legitimation and lay/monastic relations in Buddhist Burma, and she has conducted research in the country since 1988. Dr. Jordt, who has lived as a Buddhist nun in Burma, has written widely on religion and political legitimacy in Burma. In her new book, Burma’s Mass Lay Meditation Movement: Buddhism and the Cultural Construction of Power, she describes transformations in Buddhism and the consequences these have had for Burma’s military and how it governs.

PRISCILLA CLAPP is a retired U.S. diplomat. Her 30-year career in public service includes a stint as U.S. charge d’affaires in Burma from 1999 to 2002. Additionally, she has worked on the U.S. State Department’s policy planning staff and with State’s East Asian and political-military bureaus. In addition to her government service, Ms. Clapp has held positions with the Brookings Institution and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for International Studies. In July 2007, the U.S. Institute of Peace published her working paper, Building Democracy in Burma, which has since been updated (and will soon be republished) to reflect recent events.

http://www.wilsoncenter.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=events.event_summary&event_id=293446

Candlelit Vigil tomorrow night

2007-11-01T11:53:00.000-04:00

Dear All,

There will be a Candle Light Vigil in Frederick Community College to support and pray for the freedom of Burma on November 2, 2007 at 7:00 -> 8:00 P.M. There will be a short speech about the present situation of our homeland on that day.

Please spread the word and come to support. Your present will be highly meaningful.

Faces of the Burma Struggle

2007-10-30T23:11:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends,

Now more than ever, people in Burma need to know that they are not alone in their struggle for freedom and human rights. The military junta waits for the international pressure for political change that has followed the brutal crackdown on peaceful demonstrations last month to dissipate. We cannot let this happen.

Join us on November 4, 2007 at the Reflecting Pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington , D.C . from 5:00 -7:30 pm. Come hear and be moved by personal stories and reflections from people who have been deeply involved in the Burma Struggle. Come honor the many faces of this struggle.

In 1963 Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech to a crowd at this site. Join us in delivering our message of compassion and hope to the world in support of a free and democratic Burma .

Please feel free to share this announcement with others.

Use Your Liberty to Promote Ours
- Aung San Suu Kyi

Panty Power

2007-10-30T23:07:00.000-04:00

Here's something easy and outrageous that you can do to support a great cause.

Join the GLOBAL ACTION—

POST YOUR PANTIES FOR PEACE AND FREEDOM IN BURMA.

The Burmese regime is not only brutal but very superstitious. The generals believe that if a man has contact with a woman's panties or sarong they are robbed of their power or "hpon". Here's your chance to help end Military Rule in Burma.

Women, it's time to clean out the closet! And men, just grab a few undies from your friend, girlfriend/wife, or mom! MAIL YOUR PANTIES TO THE EMBASSY OF MYANMAR. Make sure they get there on Friday November 9, 2007. Wewant maximum impact!

Address: 2300 S Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20008

And for a special touch, WRITE A NOTE ON THE PANTY. Be Creative!

Suggestion: Than Shwe, Your "Hpon" Be Gone!

Flagging on the Quad at AU

2007-10-29T23:12:00.000-04:00

Today we put 2,000 flags into the ground on the quad at AU, representing the 100,000 protesters in Burma. With the red flags representing the monks leading the protests, the white flags on either side represent the people that we saw in photos linking arms surrounding the monks. Part of our display includes mini signs with information on the number of political prisoners in Burma, the widespread use of landmines, the use of rape as a weapon of war, the number of child soldiers in Burma, and many other facts.

All day long we saw people stop and stare at the numbers...for many people this is the first time they are really seeing information about Burma and realizing the severity of the situation. Our hope is that these flags will educate our campus community, and inspire more individuals to get involved in the Free Burma movement. The flags will be up until Wednesday evening. If you're in the DC area, we invite you to our campus to come see the display, as well as contact our group for more information.

Our meetings are every Wednesday night at 8:10pm in Kay Basement. For more information, contact AUBurma[at]gmail[dot]com.

Doctoral Dissertation Defense

2007-10-29T23:09:00.000-04:00

Oral Defense of Doctoral Dissertation Al B. Fuertes

"Community-based Warviews, Resiliency and Healing Among the Internally Displaced Persons in Mindanao and the Karen Refugees on the Thai-Burmese Border"

Monday, November 5th, 20071:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Truland Bldg., Room 555 George Mason University, Arlington Campus

Action Items from Amnesty International

2007-10-29T22:33:00.000-04:00

Influence China to play a positive role in Burma!

Influence India to play a positive role in Burma!

Female Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Rally for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

2007-10-23T23:23:00.000-04:00

These six women (Jody Williams, Shirin Ebadi, Wangari Maathai, Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Betty Williams and Mairead Corrigan Maguire) banded together in 2006 with the desire to promote justice, equality, and peace worldwide. One of the areas the devote attention to is Burma, and that attention has increased in recent months.

On Wednesday, the Nobel Peace Prize recipients jointly requested that the United Nations take immediate action to guarantee the release of Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest. She is the only imprisoned Nobel laureate.

Read more of the story here, and visit the Nobel Women's Initiative site here.

Candlelit Vigil at AU

2007-10-22T16:14:00.000-04:00

Candlelit Vigil at AU

Join our candlelit vigil for Burma at American University!

We'll be sharing the latest news from Burma, updates on UN action, what we're doing on AU's campus, and how you can get involved in the Saffron Revolution.

Kay Steps

Wednesday, October 24th, 8:00pm

Questions? Email us: AUBURMA[at]gmail[dot]com

Rally at the State Department, Oct. 26th at 1pm

2007-10-19T14:53:00.000-04:00

Show the Burmese Military Junta that the world is always watching!
Demand that the International Community take action immediately!
Demonstrate to the people of Burma that you support them!

Free Burma Rally

We will mark the one-month anniversary of the Burmese Military Junta’s
crackdown on the peaceful monks and demonstrators of Burma.
Fri, 26 Oct 2007 at 1pm

At the U.S. State Department (2201 C Street NW, Washington D.C. 20520)
Members of the Burmese community from GA, NC, VA, IN,
OH, PA, NY, MD & Washington, D.C. will join this event.

Contact: burmamustbefree07@yahoo.com
571.235.4035 or 301.520.4160

An Evening with the Leaders of the Burmese Democracy Movement in Exile

2007-10-18T11:08:00.000-04:00

If you have been listening or watching the news lately, you may have heard of the pro democracy demonstration in Burma that was brutally silenced, just weeks ago. This demonstration intensified and resulted brutal murder of Buddhist monks and arrest of many others. The internet and many other media outlets were shut down by the Burmese government during this period. Since then, information of what transpired is to some degree unknown, but hopefully not forgotten.

DCIC is very pleased to have two high profile leaders of the 'Democracy Movement in Burma' gracing our event. They will be presenting an up-to-date insiders talk on the ongoing struggle with the Burmese authorities.

Join us on Saturday October 20th for an unforgettable evening and share the sumptuous food, company and engage in a thought-provoking, eye-opening discussion.If you plan to attend, please reply to the Evite.

Those who want to get free admission by contributing to the potluck dinner must reply to the Evite stating what type of dish they will bring, and must arrive no later than 6.30pm. Members who want to receive free admission in return for working one of the volunteer shifts must also reply to the Evite, and must arrange the volunteer shift in advance by emailing Tony at tony@dcinternational.org or calling 703-475-8328.

Friday Forum at AU on Burma Activism

2007-10-17T15:51:00.000-04:00

The International Development Program Student Association (IDPSA) Presents:

BURMA - Prospects for Social Activism

October 19, 2007 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm SIS Lounge

Kyi May Kaung Writer, Visual Artist, and Private Consultant on Burma Issues

Steven Hansch Professor, American University

Mike Haack Volunteer, US Campaign for Burma

Plus a short film and possibly more!!!

(202) 885-1695 • idfridayforum@yahoo.com • www.idpsa.org

Come to Jamnesty, a benefit concert at AU!

2007-10-15T20:21:00.000-04:00

Jamnesty Benefit Concert!

WHEN? Saturday, October 20th 2007, Doors open at 6pm
WHERE? The Tavern, MGC
HOW MUCH? $5 Proceeds go to Youth Solidarity of Burma www.givetoburma.org

WHO'S PLAYING?
Five Bands and a Rap Artist
(In order)
Alexis George
The Whips
Don't Ask
Agent and the Patient
A Papier Mache Monster
(The Sauce <> performing in between acts)

Sponsored by Amnesty International and AU Student Campaign for Burma

Questions? Email auburma@gmail.com

October 13th Protest in DC

2007-10-14T12:52:00.000-04:00

Wow, great turnout!! Some 200+ people joined together to protest the ongoing atrocities by the Burmese government. A number of inspiring and compelling speakers talked about the length of the regime's rule and the importance of continued international pressure until we see some ACTION taken against the military junta.

After some great speakers and rallying cries at the Burmese Embassy, the group marched to the White House. We stopped in front of the Indian Embassy for a bit, pointing out the bitter irony of Ghandi's nonviolent methods of peace with the Indian government's choice to supply the military with fighter helicopters.

Next we marched through Dupont Circle and down Connecticut Ave until reaching the White House, where we held a candlelit vigil.

Here are some pictures from the day:

Amnesty International & Johns Hopkins University Event

2007-10-12T14:09:00.000-04:00

The Southeast Asia Studies Program and Amnesty International Presents

“Burma’s Human Rights Challenges”

with Jonathan D. Farrar Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Department of State

Will Davis Director, United Nations Information Center

T. Kumar Advocacy Director for Asia & Pacific, Amnesty International USA

Monday, October 15th, 2007 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm Rome Building, Rome Auditorium 1619 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Johns Hopkins University – SAIS, Washington, DC

Please RSVP to sea-sais@jhu.edu or phone:202.663.5837 or Fax: 202.663.7711

Never-before broadcast footage from Burma

2007-10-12T13:46:00.000-04:00

This video was taken by an underground reporter from Al-Jazeera in Rangoon during the massive protests. It is absolutely incredible!

http://www.bmnetwork.org/AlJazeera1.html

There are two videos, watch both!

Human Rights Watch supports arms embargo by UNSC

2007-10-11T12:14:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday, Human Rights Watch called for UN Security Council action on Burma.

“It’s time for the Security Council to end all sales and transfers of arms to a government that uses repression and fear to hang onto power,” said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “Instead of continuing to protect Burma’s abusive generals, China and Russia should join other Security Council members to cut off the instruments of repression.”

http://hrw.org/english/docs/2007/10/10/burma17066.htm

Video of Dr. Cynthia's Clinic

2007-10-11T07:14:00.001-04:00

This video was posted on CNN.com yesterday. It highlights the amazing care that Dr. Cynthia's clinic provides on the Thai-Burma border, and the needless suffering that so many Burmese people endure.

Peace Walk from Grafton, NY to UN, NYC

2007-10-10T23:34:00.000-04:00

Peace Walk for Burma
Support Peace and Reconciliation in Burma

Grafton, NY to the United Nations in New York City
October 13-24, 2007

We are walking in solidarity with the monks and people of Burma who risk their lives every day for freedom and democracy.

Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo

Saturday Oct. 13 Grafton Peace Pagoda àTroy
Sunday Oct.14 TroyàAlbany
Monday Oct. 15 AlbanyàCastleton
Tuesday Oct. 16 CastletonàCatskill
Wednesday Oct.17 CatskillàWoodstock
Thursday Oct. 18 WoodstockàHighland
Friday Oct. 19 HighlandàNewburgh
Saturday Oct. 20 NewburghàTomskin Cove
Sunday Oct. 21 Tomskin CoveàNyack
Monday Oct. 22 NyackàFort Lee, NJ
Tuesday Oct. 23 Fort Lee, NJàNYC Burmese Embassy
Wednesday Oct. 24 Burmese Embassy-UN Peace Vigil

We will walk a total of 215 miles, beginning each day at 8 AM and typically walking 15-18 miles per day. Feel free to join the walk at any point for any length of time.
Please respect that the walk will be free of drugs, alcohol and weapons. If you plan to join us for more than a day, please bring a sleeping bag.

For more information:
*Heidi Ricks (518)-885-1806/ rickshei@capital.net
*Grafton Peace Pagoda: Jun (518)-658-9301
*Cell phone for Peace Walk (518) 605-8506

Initiated by Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Order/Grafton Peace Pagoda and
The Capital District Burmese Community

“Please use your liberty to promote ours” 1991 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi who is now under house arrest in Burma

Candlelit Vigil this Saturday

2007-10-10T23:17:00.000-04:00

Free Burma Rally & Candlelit Vigil

Meet at the Burmese Embassy at 5pm
2300 S Street NW
Washington, DC

Then we'll head to the White House for a CandlelightVigil held by members of the Vietnamese American Community who support of the people of Burma.

Action Items

2007-10-09T16:49:00.000-04:00

We know we need to take action. Here are some quick steps we can take to keep the pressure on China and keep Burma in the spotlight.

To citizens of the United States:

Write your Representative and get them to support House Resolution 610. This resolution calls for a US boycott of the Beijing Olympics if the military regime does not change its policies on Burma. Find your Representative here

To citizens of the World:

Please send emails to ticketsupport@beijing2008.cn Tell them that you won't buy any tickets and will boycott the Beijing 2008 Olympics, since Beijing is protecting and supporting the brutal military junta of Burma.

Here is a template:

Dear Sirs/Madams,

I am very interested in purchasing tickets to some of the events at next year's Olympic games. However I cannot, in good conscience, attend the Beijing Olympics unless your government uses its influence to improve the political situation in Burma. China has substantial economic interests in the country, provides large amounts of economic aid, and invests heavily in infrastructure projects there.

Additionally, your government provides extensive logistical support to Burma's military government. All this make China uniquely placed to influence it. The people of Burma have, in a very peaceful manner, insisted that their rights be respected. I ask no more of your government than that it cease its support for the current regime, and encourage dialog with the democratically elected representatives of the Burmese nation.

I, the Burmese people, and the world would be grateful for your assistance in this matter. Your courage will go a long way towards making the 2008 Olympics a success.

With sincere thanks,

_______________________________

Another point of action for all of us:

Don't forget to sign this petition, as well as the other petitions listed on the right hand side of this page. Forward this link on to your friends and family. Ordinary people matter, and together we can make a difference!

Let's keep up the good work!!

News Coverage and photos of Oct. 6 Protest in DC

2007-10-07T08:34:00.000-04:00

Just saw this article from CNN. They got a few facts wrong, such as the number for people there (closer to 300), and they called the country Myanmar in the article, but other than that it's not bad.

Also, check out these videos, including:

Jeremy Woodrum from US Campaign for Burma talking about UNSC not taking action.

Mr. Bo Hla-Tint speaking out the outrages in Burma.

**Photo credits to William Hughes**
Demonstrators marching to the Chinese Embassy

Buddhist monks led the march from the Burmese Embassy to the Chinese Embassy.

More news coverage will be posted soon.

Boycott Chevron to support Burma!

2007-10-05T09:18:00.000-04:00

A recent article by Amy Goodman, host of the nationally syndicated radio program Democracy Now!, spoke out about Chevron's involvement in propping up the Burmese regime. The vast deposits of oil that Burma sells to Chevron is a MAJOR source of funding for the junta.

What about US sanctions against Burma? Doesn't that prevent Chevron from doing business there? Sadly, no.

"According to Marco Simons, U.S. legal director at EarthRights International: "Sanctions haven't worked because gas is the lifeline of the regime. Before Yadana went online, Burma's regime was facing severe shortages of currency. It's really Yadana and gas projects that kept the military regime afloat to buy arms and ammunition and pay its soldiers."
The U.S. government has had sanctions in place against Burma since 1997. A loophole exists, though, for companies grandfathered in. Unocal's exemption from the Burma sanctions has been passed on to its new owner, Chevron."

You can find her article here.

Great Op-Ed Calling on China to stop the violence in Burma and More Protest Resources

2007-10-04T14:15:00.000-04:00

**We do support the global internet protest on the Internet being silenced in Burma, but in light of our upcoming protest on Saturday, we needed to post some more information. **

First, this op-ed was written by Patrick Cook-Deegan, the Northeast Regional Student Coordinator for the US Campaign for Burma.

Second, please refer to this website http://dcburmaprotest.org/ for more information on the protest this Saturday in Washington, DC. They should also be posting our event on the Avaaz.Org site shortly, and we already have an event listed at USCampaignforBurma.org. Additionally, please join our facebook group at http://american.facebook.com/event.php?eid=5716963366. Don't forget to wear red, and to bring signs, posters, and your support for a Free Burma!!!

Third, if you are in the DC area and are attending the protest this Saturday, a group of students from American University will be meeting on the steps of Kay Spiritual Center at 11am to head over to the Burmese Embassy together. Join us for coffee and donuts as we get fired up and call for a Free Burma!

Questions? Email AUBurma@gmail.com

PROTEST and march this SATURDAY, Oct. 6th at Noon

2007-10-02T16:34:00.000-04:00

Join AU Student Campaign for Burma, US Campaign for Burma, and a multitude of other activist groups in the DC area for a protest and march in support of the Saffron Revolution!

Connect with other people going at http://gwu.facebook.com/event.php?eid=5716963366

Where: Meet at the Burmese Embassy (2300 S St NW) at 12:00pm on Saturday. March starts at 12:30pm to the Chinese Embassy, and then to the Indian Embassy.

What to bring/wear: Please bring posters and signs in support of the Burmese people. Also, wear red to show your solidarity with the Burmese people. Why red? The Buddhist monks (who initially led the protests) wear maroon robes.

Addresses and Directions:

Burmese Embassy (Meet here at 12:00pm)

2300 S Street NWWashington, DC 20008

The Metro Bus Masaschusetts Avenue lines N2, N4, and N6 all run from American University to S Street, NW (north of Dupont Circle)

Directions to the Burmese Embassy from the Dupont Circle Station on the Red Line:

Exit station using CONN AVE & Q ST NW exit
Walk approx. 2 blocks NW on Connecticut Ave NW.
Turn left on S St NW.
Walk approx. 2 blocks W on S St NW.
To view a map, please visit wmata.com and use their trip planner feature.

Questions? Please email us at AUBurma@gmail.com

Meditation for Peace and Democracy in Burma

2007-10-02T09:46:00.000-04:00

Thursday, October 4
5:00-8:00 PM

Please join us outside the Burmese Embassy in Washington, DC (2300 S Street, NW) for a meditation for peace and democracy in Burma. The meditation will focus on loving-kindness directed to honor and support the monks, nuns and laypeople who are courageously marching for peace and democracy in Burma, and to help free the hearts and minds of the Burmese generals of greed, hatred and fear.

Please wear red/maroon shawl or covering, if possible.

Sponsored by the Washington Buddhist Peace Fellowship

Next Meeting

2007-10-01T23:12:00.001-04:00

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, Oct. 3rd at 8:10pm in Kay Basement. We'll be outlining our upcoming events, sharing news, and rallying our efforts for Burma! See ya there!!

Questions? Email AUBurma@gmail.com

Photos from DC Protests, 9-28-07

2007-10-01T22:24:00.000-04:00

Outside the Burmese embassy

We had an incredible turnout of support at the protest this past Friday! A crowd numbering 400-500 people rallied at the Burmese embassy, then marched north to the Chinese embassy. Buddhist monks, Burmese activists, students from AU, GWU, Georgetown, BYU, and Harvard, demonstrators from North Carolina, and many more walked, chanted, held signs, and demanded Burma's freedom.

Check out the media coverage from WUSA9, NBC4, and a Vietnamese TV Station. Don't forget print media! Here's an article from our very own AU Eagle, and this article in the Washington Post.

Even more important than media coverage in the US was the transmission and news of the DC protest reaching activists inside Burma.

We must stand in solidarity with the Burmese people and let them know how much we support them. Here are some great pictures from the protest. All photo credit goes to MK McKenna.

Leading the demonstrators in protest

On the march to the Chinese embassy, led by Buddhist monks

Trying to stay on the sidewalk, our group was several blocks long!!

The world is watching!!

Speaking out in front of the Chinese embassy

Symbol of the Burmese Democracy Movement: The fighting peacock

Getting the attention of Connecticut Ave during rush hour

Protesters in front of the Chinese embassy

Burma, Burma Must be Free! Justice, Peace, Equality!

Candlelit Vigil

2007-09-30T19:21:00.000-04:00

We're having a candlelit vigil tomorrow night to draw attention to the Saffron Revolution in Burma. Over the weekend, the Burmese people had their connection to the internet shut down, the number of dead is now around 200, the number of arrested is now around 2000, and there are reports of injured protesters being burned/buried alive! We must step up our efforts now more than ever. Please join us for reflection on recent events and show your solidarity and support of the Burmese people.

Event: A candlelit vigil in support of the Burmese people
What day: Monday, October 1st
What time: 8:00pm
Where: The steps in front of Kay Spiritual Center, AU Main Campus
Questions? AUBurma@gmail.com

Creation of Blog

2007-09-30T19:19:00.000-04:00

Hi everyone,

As events continue unfolding in Burma, please refer to this page for the latest updates on Burma activism at American University and see what you can do to help. If you have any questions, suggestions, etc., please email AUBurma@gmail.com. Thanks!