Trying to get back online. Much to update about the past 8 months--Nargis, the referendum, etc).
If you are a British citizen, please sign the Burma Democratic Concern's petition HERE. It calls on the UK Prime Minister to support the 1990 Elections result and to urge the International Community not to follow junta's 2010 Election plan.
The deadline to sign up is June 2, 2009
Showing posts with label Take Action. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Take Action. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
AVAAZ's call on ASEAN to ACT NOW
***The 19 ONLINE PETITIONS/PLEDGES FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
For those in Asia, please help put the pressure on ASEAN to act now!
from AVAAZ:
Asia: Act Now for Myanmar's People
On November 21, China, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia and Japan join the leaders of ASEAN at the East Asia Summit in Singapore. This meeting is crucial. With thousands of monks and democrats still imprisoned in Myanmar, these Asian leaders hold vital levers over the military dictatorship there.
Coordinated Asian pressure could decide whether dialogue between Aung San Suu Kyi and the military junta is genuine, or just another con-trick. That’s why we're sending a wave of messages from all around Asia, asking leaders to offer practical support to the UN effort, and to take real steps to press the Myanmar junta into freeing the prisoners and opening real dialogue.
Sign HERE.
__________________________
For those in Asia, please help put the pressure on ASEAN to act now!
from AVAAZ:
Asia: Act Now for Myanmar's People
On November 21, China, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia and Japan join the leaders of ASEAN at the East Asia Summit in Singapore. This meeting is crucial. With thousands of monks and democrats still imprisoned in Myanmar, these Asian leaders hold vital levers over the military dictatorship there.
Coordinated Asian pressure could decide whether dialogue between Aung San Suu Kyi and the military junta is genuine, or just another con-trick. That’s why we're sending a wave of messages from all around Asia, asking leaders to offer practical support to the UN effort, and to take real steps to press the Myanmar junta into freeing the prisoners and opening real dialogue.
Sign HERE.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
AVAAZ's Boycott on Total Oil, Chevron, and Their Subsidiaries
***The 19 ONLINE PETITIONS/PLEDGES FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
***The petitions and pledges are now up to 19.***
AVAAZ also is launching a global boycott of Total Oil and Chevron and all their subsidiaries that operate in Burma. You can sign AVAAZ's pledge HERE. By hitting them straight in their bottom line, AVAAZ hopes to press these corporations to either push Burma to democratic reform, or to leave the country entirely.
I will say though, while many Western Burma-related NGOs and advocacy networks believe that a complete pullout of Western companies doing business in Burma is the quickest, surefire way to weaken the junta and bring about political change in the troubled nation, the situation is not as clearcut. While companies operating in Burma can use their leverage to enact political change, company pullout can create a power vacuum, creating the conditions for even more abusive (Chinese or other energy-hungry Asian) companies to fill in the void. Chinese, Malaysian, Korean companies would readily, easily, and quickly answer the call for investment.
I have heard that Burmese on the ground are actually against a pullout of Western companies. The are afraid that if Western companies leave, Asian companies with poorer human rights records will move in. In the historic Doe vs. Unocal Case involving the construction of the Yadana pipeline, the verdict held that Unocal WAS liable for human rights abuses committed by SPDC troops hired by the oil company. Some think a more effective way to uphold human rights in Burma, especially in areas where multinationals invest, is to put pressure on Western companies to operate in a responsible manner. The Corporate Social Responsibility discourse is much more predominant and established in the West than in the East, where many countries are still subject to the "race to the bottom" for development. Hence, advocating for Western companies to observe CSR is a more suitable option on which Western activists can rely. Moreover, I personally doubt that enough companies will pull out in a short timeframe to create serious cash flow problems for the junta.
Journalist and author Ross Gelbspan has put forth the following theory in his book about climate change The Heat is On. If a totalitarian state (like Burma) suffers from severe economic instability (such as one that would occur from a massive investor pullout), the conditions would be ripe for GREATER, not lesser human rights abuses. It's the same old Asian Values argument that says economic considerations and the right to development come before civil and political rights. By supervising companies who invest in Burma and getting them to responsibly operate, the hope is that multinationals can counteract human rights abuses.
Another petition: Sign Earthrights International's petition urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown, and to stop investing in Burma HERE.
__________________________
***The petitions and pledges are now up to 19.***
AVAAZ also is launching a global boycott of Total Oil and Chevron and all their subsidiaries that operate in Burma. You can sign AVAAZ's pledge HERE. By hitting them straight in their bottom line, AVAAZ hopes to press these corporations to either push Burma to democratic reform, or to leave the country entirely.
I will say though, while many Western Burma-related NGOs and advocacy networks believe that a complete pullout of Western companies doing business in Burma is the quickest, surefire way to weaken the junta and bring about political change in the troubled nation, the situation is not as clearcut. While companies operating in Burma can use their leverage to enact political change, company pullout can create a power vacuum, creating the conditions for even more abusive (Chinese or other energy-hungry Asian) companies to fill in the void. Chinese, Malaysian, Korean companies would readily, easily, and quickly answer the call for investment.
I have heard that Burmese on the ground are actually against a pullout of Western companies. The are afraid that if Western companies leave, Asian companies with poorer human rights records will move in. In the historic Doe vs. Unocal Case involving the construction of the Yadana pipeline, the verdict held that Unocal WAS liable for human rights abuses committed by SPDC troops hired by the oil company. Some think a more effective way to uphold human rights in Burma, especially in areas where multinationals invest, is to put pressure on Western companies to operate in a responsible manner. The Corporate Social Responsibility discourse is much more predominant and established in the West than in the East, where many countries are still subject to the "race to the bottom" for development. Hence, advocating for Western companies to observe CSR is a more suitable option on which Western activists can rely. Moreover, I personally doubt that enough companies will pull out in a short timeframe to create serious cash flow problems for the junta.
Journalist and author Ross Gelbspan has put forth the following theory in his book about climate change The Heat is On. If a totalitarian state (like Burma) suffers from severe economic instability (such as one that would occur from a massive investor pullout), the conditions would be ripe for GREATER, not lesser human rights abuses. It's the same old Asian Values argument that says economic considerations and the right to development come before civil and political rights. By supervising companies who invest in Burma and getting them to responsibly operate, the hope is that multinationals can counteract human rights abuses.
Another petition: Sign Earthrights International's petition urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown, and to stop investing in Burma HERE.
Friday, November 16, 2007
US Citizens, Help get the Block Burmese JADE and the Burmese Democracy Promotion Acts Passed
***The 17 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
US Citizens, please help get the Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts)Act and the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act passed. Put the pressure on your Representatives and Senators for the toughest US Sanctions against Burma yet. These Acts would stop allowing the junta to launder funds, gems, timber, and other products in third countries before they are sold.
from the US Campaign for Burma:
Call Your Representative and Senators!
Make Sure the US is not bankrolling the Burmese Regime's Brutal Actions
In the House of Representatives, Rep. Lantos has introduced the "Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act" and in the Senate, Senators Biden and McConnell have introduced the "Burmese Democracy Promotion Act". Both of these will tighten sanctions on Burma's military regime and really hit the generals where it hurts. Call in today to demand that your Representative and Senator co-sponsor. Find your Representative's info at www.house.gov and find your Senators' by going to www.senate.gov. Call today and call everyday until you get an answer! Find out more information on the resolutions and what you should do- Click Here to Take Action
The Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 (Senate) and the Block Burmese JADE (Junti Anti Democratic Efforts) has the power to force the regime to negotiate with Burma's democracy leaders and Ethnic nationalities. We must show the people of Burma that the U.S. is taking action to support their calls for freedom, democracy and human rights. Call your Senator today asking him/her to support the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act! Organize your community to call in as well. Contact details for your Senators are given below.
To read the legislation:
House : Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act
Senate: Burmese Democracy Promotion Act
Contact information:
Call your Senators/ Representative's offices and ask to speak with their foreign policy staffer. If s/he is not there leave a message and ask her/him to call you back. Call today and every day until you get an answer!
Find Your Representative: www.house.gov
Find Your Senator: www.senate.gov
Senate: To add their name as a cosponsor: Let them know that to co-sponsor (Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 - S.2257)Democrats should contact Frank Jannuzi at the Committee on Foreign Relations at 202-224-4651
Republicans should contact Reb Brownell in Senator McConnell's office at 202-224-2541
House: To add their name as a co-sponsor: Let them know that to co-sponsor they should contact Eric Richardson at the Committee on Foreign Affairs office at eric.richardson@mail.house.gov or 225-5021.
Talking Points for Staffer:
- Tell the staffer you want your Senator to co-sponsor the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007
- Give her/him proof that this policy works. It cuts off hundreds of millions of dollars to the regime and will specifically target the top generals' finances.
- Mention that the military junta still deserves sanctions. On top of brutally crushing thousands of peaceful demonstrators, including monks, the military regime has destroyed more than 3,000 villages. It has forcibly displaced more than half a million people inside Burma as well as causing a million refugees to flee across the border to neighboring countries and has made no efforts to move toward democracy.
- Let her/him know it is important to send a strong signal to the regime that the US government will continue to keep American money out the hands of the junta.
- This is not the only action being taken against Burma. On top of many diplomatic efforts, the EU has imposed new sanctions, as well as Australia, and even Japan has decreased aid to Burma.
- Finally ask the staffer to call you back when your Senator has co-sponsored the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act. Important: Leave your phone number!
Let him/her know that his/her constituents care about Burma!
Check up to see if they cosponsor:
It's easy to check and see if they follow through and agree to cosponsor. THOMAS, the Library of Congress' congressional records database updates a list of all information on legislation. Click HERE to find out who has signed as cosponsors in the House, and Click HERE to see who has signed as cosponsors in the Senate.
Please let me know when you have contacted your Senator and how it went - thelma@uscampaignforburma.org. These new sanctions will hit the regime where it hurts.
__________________________
US Citizens, please help get the Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts)Act and the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act passed. Put the pressure on your Representatives and Senators for the toughest US Sanctions against Burma yet. These Acts would stop allowing the junta to launder funds, gems, timber, and other products in third countries before they are sold.
from the US Campaign for Burma:
Call Your Representative and Senators!
Make Sure the US is not bankrolling the Burmese Regime's Brutal Actions
In the House of Representatives, Rep. Lantos has introduced the "Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act" and in the Senate, Senators Biden and McConnell have introduced the "Burmese Democracy Promotion Act". Both of these will tighten sanctions on Burma's military regime and really hit the generals where it hurts. Call in today to demand that your Representative and Senator co-sponsor. Find your Representative's info at www.house.gov and find your Senators' by going to www.senate.gov. Call today and call everyday until you get an answer! Find out more information on the resolutions and what you should do- Click Here to Take Action
The Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 (Senate) and the Block Burmese JADE (Junti Anti Democratic Efforts) has the power to force the regime to negotiate with Burma's democracy leaders and Ethnic nationalities. We must show the people of Burma that the U.S. is taking action to support their calls for freedom, democracy and human rights. Call your Senator today asking him/her to support the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act! Organize your community to call in as well. Contact details for your Senators are given below.
What the Acts Do:
The regime makes hundreds of millions of dollars each year off the sale of gems and timber. More than 90 percent of the world's rubies and fine-quality jade comes from Burma. The new sanctions will crack down on the regime's practice of avoiding U.S. sanctions by laundering gemstones and other products, especially timber, through third countries before they are sold.
This Act also freezes the assets of Burmese political and military leaders, prevents Burma from using U.S. financial institutions via third countries to launder the funds of those leaders or their immediate families, and prohibits Burmese officials involved in the violent suppression of protesters from receiving visas to the United States.
Burma also uses third countries to access the U.S. banking system. These overseas banks process accounts in and through the United States for Burma's rulers, providing the regime with much-needed hard currency. The regime uses these funds to purchase weapons and luxury goods, while the bulk of Burma's population lives in poverty.
Biden and McConnell's legislation tightens existing sanctions to prevent Burma's military rulers from profiting from sales to the United States, and blocks access to the U.S. financial system not just for Burmese human rights violators but also to those who provide the regime with banking services.
The bill also creates a new position of Special Representative and Policy Coordinator for Burma. The Special Representative will work with Burma's neighbors and other interested countries, including the members of the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, to develop a comprehensive approach to the problem, including sanctions, dialogue, and support for non-governmental organizations providing humanitarian relief to the Burmese people.
These Acts, if passed, would be the strongest action yet that the U.S. takes to pressure Burma's military regime to negotiate with Burma's democracy leaders and ethnic nationalities.
To read the legislation:
House : Block Burmese JADE (Junta Anti-Democratic Efforts) Act
Senate: Burmese Democracy Promotion Act
Contact information:
Call your Senators/ Representative's offices and ask to speak with their foreign policy staffer. If s/he is not there leave a message and ask her/him to call you back. Call today and every day until you get an answer!
Find Your Representative: www.house.gov
Find Your Senator: www.senate.gov
Senate: To add their name as a cosponsor: Let them know that to co-sponsor (Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007 - S.2257)Democrats should contact Frank Jannuzi at the Committee on Foreign Relations at 202-224-4651
Republicans should contact Reb Brownell in Senator McConnell's office at 202-224-2541
House: To add their name as a co-sponsor: Let them know that to co-sponsor they should contact Eric Richardson at the Committee on Foreign Affairs office at eric.richardson@mail.house.gov or 225-5021.
Talking Points for Staffer:
- Tell the staffer you want your Senator to co-sponsor the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act of 2007
- Give her/him proof that this policy works. It cuts off hundreds of millions of dollars to the regime and will specifically target the top generals' finances.
- Mention that the military junta still deserves sanctions. On top of brutally crushing thousands of peaceful demonstrators, including monks, the military regime has destroyed more than 3,000 villages. It has forcibly displaced more than half a million people inside Burma as well as causing a million refugees to flee across the border to neighboring countries and has made no efforts to move toward democracy.
- Let her/him know it is important to send a strong signal to the regime that the US government will continue to keep American money out the hands of the junta.
- This is not the only action being taken against Burma. On top of many diplomatic efforts, the EU has imposed new sanctions, as well as Australia, and even Japan has decreased aid to Burma.
- Finally ask the staffer to call you back when your Senator has co-sponsored the Burmese Democracy Promotion Act. Important: Leave your phone number!
Let him/her know that his/her constituents care about Burma!
Check up to see if they cosponsor:
It's easy to check and see if they follow through and agree to cosponsor. THOMAS, the Library of Congress' congressional records database updates a list of all information on legislation. Click HERE to find out who has signed as cosponsors in the House, and Click HERE to see who has signed as cosponsors in the Senate.
Please let me know when you have contacted your Senator and how it went - thelma@uscampaignforburma.org. These new sanctions will hit the regime where it hurts.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Break the Burmese Blackout
***The 17 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
Donate to help Burmese opposition groups bypass the junta's media blackout. From AVAAZ.org:
The Burmese military has seen the power of global solidarity for the demonstrators--and has moved to shut down all communications with the outside world. As the images and stories have slowed, global media coverage of the Burmese crisis has lost its urgency.
But people power can beat the blackout.
***DONATE***HERE to HELP BREAK THE BURMESE BLACKOUT.
__________________________
Donate to help Burmese opposition groups bypass the junta's media blackout. From AVAAZ.org:
The Burmese military has seen the power of global solidarity for the demonstrators--and has moved to shut down all communications with the outside world. As the images and stories have slowed, global media coverage of the Burmese crisis has lost its urgency.
But people power can beat the blackout.
Donate below to send crucial technical support and equipment to Burmese civil society groups, and help return Burma's voice to its people. 100% of funds donated will go to Burmese groupsAvaaz will keep no portion.
***DONATE***HERE to HELP BREAK THE BURMESE BLACKOUT.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Donate to the Mae Tao Clinic, help give medical aid to Refugees, Migrant Workers, and Others who cross from Burma to Thailand
The Mae Tao Clinic (MTC), founded and directed by Dr. Cynthia Maung, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, provides free health care for refugees, migrant workers, and other individuals who cross the border from Burma to Thailand. People of all ethnicities and religions are welcome at the Clinic. Its origins go back to the student pro-democracy movement in Burma in 1988 and the brutal repression by the Burmese regime of that movement. The fleeing students who needed medical attention were attended in a small house in Mae Sot.
You can help the clinic continue its work by either DONATINGor VOLUNTEERING.
from the Mao Tao Clinic's donation page:
Welcome to the Mae Tao Clinic’s donation page. We have set up several partnerships with international organizations through which you can make tax-deductible donations to the Mae Tao Clinic.
The Mae Tao clinic spends many thousands of dollars on training health workers and buying essential medicines each year. Following are some examples of what your donation can help to buy.
* US$4 - Cost of teaching materials for one child for one year
* US$5.75 - Anti Malarials
* US$15 - Cost of measuring and producing one prosthetic leg for a landmine victim
* US$100 - Cost of training one new health worker to work at the clinic or in
conflict areas of Burma
* US$150 - Cost of supporting one teacher in a school for internally displaced
children for one year
* US$200 - Vitamin A and Deworming Programme: School Health Team to provide Vit A and
Deworming to 6000 Burmese students along the border twice a year
* US$300 - Cost of supporting a child to stay at a boarding house to access education
for one year
* US$430 - Essential Medicines: Cost of medicine per day at Mae Tao Clinic – serving
at least 200 patients per day
* US$625 - Family Planning Services: Cost of providing family planning supplies for
one month at Mae Tao Clinic
We have also put together a more detailed PDF spreadsheet outlining some of these medicines and their annual consumption totals, as well as associated costs the Clinic has to cover. Please click HERE to download and view it.
Please select one of the options below.
Donations from United States in US$
Donations from Canada in Canadian $
Donations in all other currencies
You can help the clinic continue its work by either DONATINGor VOLUNTEERING.
from the Mao Tao Clinic's donation page:
Welcome to the Mae Tao Clinic’s donation page. We have set up several partnerships with international organizations through which you can make tax-deductible donations to the Mae Tao Clinic.
The Mae Tao clinic spends many thousands of dollars on training health workers and buying essential medicines each year. Following are some examples of what your donation can help to buy.
* US$4 - Cost of teaching materials for one child for one year
* US$5.75 - Anti Malarials
* US$15 - Cost of measuring and producing one prosthetic leg for a landmine victim
* US$100 - Cost of training one new health worker to work at the clinic or in
conflict areas of Burma
* US$150 - Cost of supporting one teacher in a school for internally displaced
children for one year
* US$200 - Vitamin A and Deworming Programme: School Health Team to provide Vit A and
Deworming to 6000 Burmese students along the border twice a year
* US$300 - Cost of supporting a child to stay at a boarding house to access education
for one year
* US$430 - Essential Medicines: Cost of medicine per day at Mae Tao Clinic – serving
at least 200 patients per day
* US$625 - Family Planning Services: Cost of providing family planning supplies for
one month at Mae Tao Clinic
We have also put together a more detailed PDF spreadsheet outlining some of these medicines and their annual consumption totals, as well as associated costs the Clinic has to cover. Please click HERE to download and view it.
Please select one of the options below.
Donations from United States in US$
Donations from Canada in Canadian $
Donations in all other currencies
10 Reasons to be Involved in Burma
***The 14 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
_______________
Why get involved in Burma? If you or your family or friends don't know much about what's going on and want to know more, here's a quick introductory rundown of the problems there. By the Free Burma Rangers. This is from printed material, not online, at least, not to my knowledge--so no link, sorry.
1. For human dignity. The power of the oppressor is unrestrained: girls being raped, children chased from their homes, parents murdered, restricted education, and people living in fear are wrong. Arbitrary arrests, and forced relocation are other tools of the regime. The idea that every human being has value crosses all political, religious, economic, and social lines, and for this we need to stand with the people of Burma.
2. For the restoration of democracy. There was a democratically-elected government that was forcefully displaced by a brutal dictatorship.
3. For the release of political prisoners. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who is still under house arrest, is one of an estimated 1,400 political prisoners. (This number is probably closer towards 1,900 now after September's crackdown. According to BBC's article HERE, 500 of the close to 3,000 protesters arrested are still being held in detention as of Oct. 17).
4. For ethnic rights, honor, and future peace. Ethnic minorities comprise over 40% of the population of Burma and thus should be equitable partners now and in Burma's future. Without them there is no just or durable solution for a peaceful and democratic Burma. Burma's brutal campaign against ethnic minorities has resulted in more than 1 million internally displaced people [with some estimates putting the number of IDPs anywhere from 2 to 4 million], over 1 million refugees, and gross human rights violations such as Burma's large scale use of landmines to terrorize civilian populations. Many of the ethnic peoples of Burma were allies for freedom in World War II. It is a matter of honor not to forget them.
5. For public health. There is a growing AIDS epidemic in Burma, and in overall health, Burma ranks as one of the world's worst. Approximately one out of every 10 children in Burma die before their 5th birthday. The ratio is twice as high among the thousands of families forced to flee their homes by the military's ongoing campaigns.
6. For an end to religious persecution. There is a wide-spread religious persecution in Burma and this is a violation of a foundational and sacred human right.
7. For an end to forced labor and use of humans as minesweepers. Each year the regime forces thousands of civilians to work on State projects and , during military campaigns, uses people to carry supplies and as human minesweepers.
8. For the protection of the environment. Unchecked and large scale clear-cutting of some of the world's last remaining natural teak and other tropical hardwood reserves, toxic mining practices, and the poorly planned building and proliferation of dams are among the many destructive practices that are damaging the country now and for future generations. The wanton and unchecked destruction of the environment in Burma is not only harmful to Burma, but to all surrounding countries.
9. For the control of narcotics. Burma is one of the main producers of amphetamines in the world, and is #1 in Southeast Asia. After Afghanistan, Burma is the #2 producer of opium/heroin in the world.
10. For regional security. Burma is building up its military with assistance from other regional dictatorships and this, along with its interest in a nuclear program, makes it a regional security threat. Its immoral leadership and lack of accountability also make it a potential global threat.
_______________
Why get involved in Burma? If you or your family or friends don't know much about what's going on and want to know more, here's a quick introductory rundown of the problems there. By the Free Burma Rangers. This is from printed material, not online, at least, not to my knowledge--so no link, sorry.
1. For human dignity. The power of the oppressor is unrestrained: girls being raped, children chased from their homes, parents murdered, restricted education, and people living in fear are wrong. Arbitrary arrests, and forced relocation are other tools of the regime. The idea that every human being has value crosses all political, religious, economic, and social lines, and for this we need to stand with the people of Burma.
2. For the restoration of democracy. There was a democratically-elected government that was forcefully displaced by a brutal dictatorship.
3. For the release of political prisoners. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who is still under house arrest, is one of an estimated 1,400 political prisoners. (This number is probably closer towards 1,900 now after September's crackdown. According to BBC's article HERE, 500 of the close to 3,000 protesters arrested are still being held in detention as of Oct. 17).
4. For ethnic rights, honor, and future peace. Ethnic minorities comprise over 40% of the population of Burma and thus should be equitable partners now and in Burma's future. Without them there is no just or durable solution for a peaceful and democratic Burma. Burma's brutal campaign against ethnic minorities has resulted in more than 1 million internally displaced people [with some estimates putting the number of IDPs anywhere from 2 to 4 million], over 1 million refugees, and gross human rights violations such as Burma's large scale use of landmines to terrorize civilian populations. Many of the ethnic peoples of Burma were allies for freedom in World War II. It is a matter of honor not to forget them.
5. For public health. There is a growing AIDS epidemic in Burma, and in overall health, Burma ranks as one of the world's worst. Approximately one out of every 10 children in Burma die before their 5th birthday. The ratio is twice as high among the thousands of families forced to flee their homes by the military's ongoing campaigns.
6. For an end to religious persecution. There is a wide-spread religious persecution in Burma and this is a violation of a foundational and sacred human right.
7. For an end to forced labor and use of humans as minesweepers. Each year the regime forces thousands of civilians to work on State projects and , during military campaigns, uses people to carry supplies and as human minesweepers.
8. For the protection of the environment. Unchecked and large scale clear-cutting of some of the world's last remaining natural teak and other tropical hardwood reserves, toxic mining practices, and the poorly planned building and proliferation of dams are among the many destructive practices that are damaging the country now and for future generations. The wanton and unchecked destruction of the environment in Burma is not only harmful to Burma, but to all surrounding countries.
9. For the control of narcotics. Burma is one of the main producers of amphetamines in the world, and is #1 in Southeast Asia. After Afghanistan, Burma is the #2 producer of opium/heroin in the world.
10. For regional security. Burma is building up its military with assistance from other regional dictatorships and this, along with its interest in a nuclear program, makes it a regional security threat. Its immoral leadership and lack of accountability also make it a potential global threat.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Help Keep 5 Alive
***The 14 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
Please consider donating to Partners Relief and Development's 5 Alive Program.
_________________________
You have ended up on a desolate island with only 5 belongings. You found them in the waterproof backpack that somehow made it to the sandy shore. What do you hope you find inside the pack? A journal? A pen? Mirror? Bug repellant? The truth is that you will not survive long in the elements on an unknown island. Unless of course you happen upon a shopping centre.
The ethnic minorities of Burma are going through a similar exercise... except for them it's not a game.
When people are hiding from their own government and are unwilling or unable to leave their country, they are classified as Internally Displaced Persons. Innnocent people have to run for their lives. Mothers, fathers, grandparents and children all have to leave their homes with only the few belongings they can carry. The belongings they bring have to be able to sustain them for the next few months.
We have asked what the 5 most important items are. The list is simple. This is what a family of 5 needs to survive for a month:
1. 75 kilograms of rice; 5 kilograms of salt
2. 1 cooking pot
3. 1 lighter
4. 1 machete
5. 1 large plastic sheet for making a roof in the jungle
The items on the list above can help save a family of 5. It costs $50 to do so. Partners wants to keep as many groups of 5 Alive as possible. You can donate $50 now to keep 5 Alive.
The life or death difference you can make
The generous support of our 5 Alive campaign has made the difference between life or death for literally thousands of people. Partners currently support 20 teams who bravely enter combat areas to demonstrate God's love among people whose lives have been brutalized by Burma's terrible war. Please keep praying, keep supporting our 5 Alive program, and keep speaking on behalf of those victims of war who have no voice.
This child and her community were helped by relief teams in April 27, 2006. Partners was able to send in medicine, shelter materials, and clothes for thousands of people who were chased from their homes and communities by Burma Army troops.
The current situation
There are currently more than 25,000 people displaced in North Eastern Burma alone, we have confirmed the deaths of 76 innocent people, and there are 33 new camp-hide sites now established to care for those who can't carry on alone.
This year, the Burma Army has stepped up its attacks against the ethnic minorities, bringing their usual dishonour and destruction with them. The situation inside of Burma is worse now that it has been in ten years, yet the world remains quiet, mostly blind to the atrocities and oppression against a gentle and peace-loving people. They shoot without remorse, rape without regret, enslave without apology. Everyday, more hearts are damaged, more innocence is stolen, and more hope is shattered. Yet still, in the midst of hardship and trial, these amazing people continue to love and grow, pray and hope, laugh and live. Their capacity for love is astounding, and they mostly refuse to be bitter.
Just Ask yourself this question: "What if it were my family?"
Naw Paw Htoo, aged 60, comes from Tongoo District in North Eastern Burma. When I interviewed her last week in Ei Tu Hta Camp, she was composed and friendly. Nine months ago the Burma Army attacked and occupied her village, and looted property. They burned down the houses, shot 7 of her neighbors, and forced the others in her community to hide in the jungle. Naw Paw Htoo fled with two of her five children, the other three are still inside Burma. She and her children walked over a month to reach the border, finally ending up in Ei Tu Hta camp where she is today.
Three years ago, Naw Paw Htoo's husband was killed when he went to the nearby town to buy food. The Burma Army tied his hands behind his back, dragged him through the jungle, hung him in a tree upside down, gouged out his eyes and then drowned him. Naw Paw Htoo helped with the burial and funeral.
Because of generous donations from people like you, Partners helped establish this temporary camp where Naw Paw Htoo now lives. Patners organizes school for the children, and helps arrange for medical facilities and care. Thank you for caring so much that you give towards these crucial needs. If you would like materials to help inform your friends and community about what is going on in Burma please contact us.
Donate HERE.
__________________________
Please consider donating to Partners Relief and Development's 5 Alive Program.
$50 will help keep a family of five internally displaced persons alive for one month.Donate HERE. You can download Partners' 5 Alive Brochure HERE.
_________________________
You have ended up on a desolate island with only 5 belongings. You found them in the waterproof backpack that somehow made it to the sandy shore. What do you hope you find inside the pack? A journal? A pen? Mirror? Bug repellant? The truth is that you will not survive long in the elements on an unknown island. Unless of course you happen upon a shopping centre.
The ethnic minorities of Burma are going through a similar exercise... except for them it's not a game.
One of the Burma Army's strategies is to crush all resistance from the ethnic groups by destroying their villages, their homes and their livelihood. They go from village to village, systematically destroying everything. If people are found in their way, they will be destroyed as well.
When people are hiding from their own government and are unwilling or unable to leave their country, they are classified as Internally Displaced Persons. Innnocent people have to run for their lives. Mothers, fathers, grandparents and children all have to leave their homes with only the few belongings they can carry. The belongings they bring have to be able to sustain them for the next few months.
We have asked what the 5 most important items are. The list is simple. This is what a family of 5 needs to survive for a month:
1. 75 kilograms of rice; 5 kilograms of salt
2. 1 cooking pot
3. 1 lighter
4. 1 machete
5. 1 large plastic sheet for making a roof in the jungle
The items on the list above can help save a family of 5. It costs $50 to do so. Partners wants to keep as many groups of 5 Alive as possible. You can donate $50 now to keep 5 Alive.
The life or death difference you can make
The generous support of our 5 Alive campaign has made the difference between life or death for literally thousands of people. Partners currently support 20 teams who bravely enter combat areas to demonstrate God's love among people whose lives have been brutalized by Burma's terrible war. Please keep praying, keep supporting our 5 Alive program, and keep speaking on behalf of those victims of war who have no voice.
This child and her community were helped by relief teams in April 27, 2006. Partners was able to send in medicine, shelter materials, and clothes for thousands of people who were chased from their homes and communities by Burma Army troops.The current situation
There are currently more than 25,000 people displaced in North Eastern Burma alone, we have confirmed the deaths of 76 innocent people, and there are 33 new camp-hide sites now established to care for those who can't carry on alone.
This year, the Burma Army has stepped up its attacks against the ethnic minorities, bringing their usual dishonour and destruction with them. The situation inside of Burma is worse now that it has been in ten years, yet the world remains quiet, mostly blind to the atrocities and oppression against a gentle and peace-loving people. They shoot without remorse, rape without regret, enslave without apology. Everyday, more hearts are damaged, more innocence is stolen, and more hope is shattered. Yet still, in the midst of hardship and trial, these amazing people continue to love and grow, pray and hope, laugh and live. Their capacity for love is astounding, and they mostly refuse to be bitter.
Just Ask yourself this question: "What if it were my family?"
Naw Paw Htoo, aged 60, comes from Tongoo District in North Eastern Burma. When I interviewed her last week in Ei Tu Hta Camp, she was composed and friendly. Nine months ago the Burma Army attacked and occupied her village, and looted property. They burned down the houses, shot 7 of her neighbors, and forced the others in her community to hide in the jungle. Naw Paw Htoo fled with two of her five children, the other three are still inside Burma. She and her children walked over a month to reach the border, finally ending up in Ei Tu Hta camp where she is today.
Three years ago, Naw Paw Htoo's husband was killed when he went to the nearby town to buy food. The Burma Army tied his hands behind his back, dragged him through the jungle, hung him in a tree upside down, gouged out his eyes and then drowned him. Naw Paw Htoo helped with the burial and funeral.
Because of generous donations from people like you, Partners helped establish this temporary camp where Naw Paw Htoo now lives. Patners organizes school for the children, and helps arrange for medical facilities and care. Thank you for caring so much that you give towards these crucial needs. If you would like materials to help inform your friends and community about what is going on in Burma please contact us.
Donate HERE.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Panty Power Campaign for Burma
***The 13 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
From The Guardian-
[Burmese] embassies in the UK, Thailand, Australia and Singapore [and all around the world] have all been targeted by the "Panties for Peace" campaign, co-ordinated by an activist group based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. [In this campaign, activists mail female underwear to Burmese embassies all around the world].
The [maneuver] is a calculated insult to the junta and its leader, General Than Shwe. Superstitious junta members believe that any contact with female undergarments - clean or dirty - will sap them of their power, said Jackie Pollack, a member of the Lanna Action for Burma Committee.
------------
Find the Burmese embassy closest to you HERE.
(For those in Melbourne, Australia, they'll be an Panty action at the State Library at 12:30 on Oct. 26. More info HERE).
More information about the Panty Power Campaign HERE.
__________________________
From The Guardian-
[Burmese] embassies in the UK, Thailand, Australia and Singapore [and all around the world] have all been targeted by the "Panties for Peace" campaign, co-ordinated by an activist group based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. [In this campaign, activists mail female underwear to Burmese embassies all around the world].The [maneuver] is a calculated insult to the junta and its leader, General Than Shwe. Superstitious junta members believe that any contact with female undergarments - clean or dirty - will sap them of their power, said Jackie Pollack, a member of the Lanna Action for Burma Committee.
------------
Find the Burmese embassy closest to you HERE.
(For those in Melbourne, Australia, they'll be an Panty action at the State Library at 12:30 on Oct. 26. More info HERE).
More information about the Panty Power Campaign HERE.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Support Free Speech in Burma!
***The 13 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
Reporters Without Borders (website HERE)has a PETITION calling for the immediate release of Win Tin, one of Aung San Suu Kyi's mentors. You can sign the petition HERE.
According to Reporters Without Borders' 2007 Worldwide Press Freedom Index, Burma is rated 164. China is 163. You can view the index HERE. The Irrawaddy has posted an article on the dangers of reporting in Burma HERE.
Win Tin, one of the political mentors of Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, continues to serve his 20-year prison sentence. He is regularly offered freedom in exchange for a signed promise to give up all political activity. But "Saya" (Teacher), as his friends call him, has always refused to cut such a deal and break his ties with the National League for Democracy, which was cheated out of its landslide victory at the 1990 general elections.
He was convicted of "subversion" and "anti-government propaganda." In 1996, he was held for five months in a dog-kennel at Rangoon's Insein prison. He has since had two heart attack and lost most of his teeth. Now 75, he has been shuttling back, and forth between his cell and the spartan prisoners' wing of Rangoon hospital for the past few years.
These days, Burma's military rulers treat him with a little more respect and he now has his own cell. But he is still not allowed to write anything.
He was arrested in July 4, 1989 for simply expressing his right of expression, which is guaranteed under Article 19 of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Please help set him free HERE. (http://www.rsf.org/article.php3?id_article=2059)
__________________________
Reporters Without Borders (website HERE)has a PETITION calling for the immediate release of Win Tin, one of Aung San Suu Kyi's mentors. You can sign the petition HERE.
According to Reporters Without Borders' 2007 Worldwide Press Freedom Index, Burma is rated 164. China is 163. You can view the index HERE. The Irrawaddy has posted an article on the dangers of reporting in Burma HERE.
Win Tin, one of the political mentors of Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi, continues to serve his 20-year prison sentence. He is regularly offered freedom in exchange for a signed promise to give up all political activity. But "Saya" (Teacher), as his friends call him, has always refused to cut such a deal and break his ties with the National League for Democracy, which was cheated out of its landslide victory at the 1990 general elections. He was convicted of "subversion" and "anti-government propaganda." In 1996, he was held for five months in a dog-kennel at Rangoon's Insein prison. He has since had two heart attack and lost most of his teeth. Now 75, he has been shuttling back, and forth between his cell and the spartan prisoners' wing of Rangoon hospital for the past few years.
These days, Burma's military rulers treat him with a little more respect and he now has his own cell. But he is still not allowed to write anything.
He was arrested in July 4, 1989 for simply expressing his right of expression, which is guaranteed under Article 19 of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Please help set him free HERE. (http://www.rsf.org/article.php3?id_article=2059)
Oct. 24, AUNG SAN SUU KYI DAY
***The 12 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
from Burma Campaign UK, website HERE
______________________
Could you send me any photos that you take of the day.
This is so that we can distribute your photos to press outlets worldwide to draw attention to the Burma. All submitted photos will be displayed HERE.
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/burmacampaignUK
Please make sure that on the day you take a photo of 12 people dressed in white wearing Aung San Suu Kyi masks. Download the mask HERE. (http://www.burmacampaign.org.uk/ASSKmask.pdf) with their hands tied together. All cities around the world will be doing this.
You can send me photos to burmacampaignuk@gmail.com
If you have any photos you'd like to add to our collection from the October 6th global day of action (viewable at the above web address) please also email them to this address.
If you have any videos you'd like to submit to our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/burmacampaignuk) please also send the link to this address.
Thanks, Lets hope tomorrow goes well!
__________________________
from Burma Campaign UK, website HERE
______________________
Just a quick note to remind you that tomorrow is Aung San Suu Kyi day. Tomorrow she will have been under arrest for 12 years.
Could you send me any photos that you take of the day.
This is so that we can distribute your photos to press outlets worldwide to draw attention to the Burma. All submitted photos will be displayed HERE.
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/burmacampaignUK
Please make sure that on the day you take a photo of 12 people dressed in white wearing Aung San Suu Kyi masks. Download the mask HERE. (http://www.burmacampaign.org.uk/ASSKmask.pdf) with their hands tied together. All cities around the world will be doing this.
You can send me photos to burmacampaignuk@gmail.com
If you have any photos you'd like to add to our collection from the October 6th global day of action (viewable at the above web address) please also email them to this address.
If you have any videos you'd like to submit to our YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/burmacampaignuk) please also send the link to this address.
Thanks, Lets hope tomorrow goes well!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Stop the Bloodshed in Burma - Sign the Petition
A new petition addressed to ASEAN, from US-based Human Rights First. Please sign before the ASEAN meeting on November 17th HERE. (http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/burma_neighbors.
***The other 11 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
Stop the Bloodshed in Burma - Sign the Petition
Monks and innocent citizens were recently slaughtered in Burma for peacefully protesting the oppressive military junta. How much longer can we allow these serious human rights abuses to be perpetrated?
We must bring peace and stability to the region as quickly as possible. China and the countries neighboring Burma can play a very important role at an upcoming meeting, but we need you to help make it happen. The direct influence of these countries on the military junta in Burma cannot be overstated.
Take a minute today to ask these countries to take action on Burma.
Subject:
Take Action on Burma at ASEAN Meeting
Your Excellencies,
It is time for Burma's neighbors to take serious action to stop the bloodshed and bring peace and stability to the region. Therefore, we call upon you to ensure that the upcoming ASEAN meeting in Singapore on November 17, 2007 includes a robust discussion about how ASEAN members States and their partners, including China, can urge the State Peace and Development Council to stop killing peaceful protestors, release political prisoners, and begin a democratization process.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations argued for Burma's admission to the group in 1997, claiming that this would encourage respect for human rights and a democratization process in that country. Ten years later, Burma's military continues to use arms against its own citizens - including Buddhist monks, women, and children - who are guilty of nothing more than a desire for peace, democracy, and human rights in Burma.
The Government of China has repeatedly claimed that the current crisis in Burma is an "internal affair," but the members of ASEAN know better. As ASEAN legislators from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand stated recently, "Burma is indeed a regional security and stability threat." Burma's neighbors-ASEAN member States and China alike-have a special responsibility to encourage the SPDC to respond to its own citizens' legitimate demands without violence or repression.
We believe the following demands should be made of the SPDC at the upcoming ASEAN summit:
* Stop using violence to quell peaceful dissent in the event of future protests;
* Account for all those persons killed, incarcerated, or illegally detained during the recent protests;
* Release all political prisoners;
* Lift restrictions on the monks who participated in recent protests;
* Lift conditions for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi.
As a Security Council member, it is in China's interest to ensure that all Security Resolutions relating to Burma are implemented. As neighbors of Burma, it is in the interest of China and all ASEAN members to press the SPDC to start the democratization process. Absent peace and human rights in Burma, sustainable regional security is impossible.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
Stop the Bloodshed in Burma - Sign the Petition
Monks and innocent citizens were recently slaughtered in Burma for peacefully protesting the oppressive military junta. How much longer can we allow these serious human rights abuses to be perpetrated?
We must bring peace and stability to the region as quickly as possible. China and the countries neighboring Burma can play a very important role at an upcoming meeting, but we need you to help make it happen. The direct influence of these countries on the military junta in Burma cannot be overstated.
Take a minute today to ask these countries to take action on Burma.
Subject:
Take Action on Burma at ASEAN Meeting
Your Excellencies,
It is time for Burma's neighbors to take serious action to stop the bloodshed and bring peace and stability to the region. Therefore, we call upon you to ensure that the upcoming ASEAN meeting in Singapore on November 17, 2007 includes a robust discussion about how ASEAN members States and their partners, including China, can urge the State Peace and Development Council to stop killing peaceful protestors, release political prisoners, and begin a democratization process.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations argued for Burma's admission to the group in 1997, claiming that this would encourage respect for human rights and a democratization process in that country. Ten years later, Burma's military continues to use arms against its own citizens - including Buddhist monks, women, and children - who are guilty of nothing more than a desire for peace, democracy, and human rights in Burma.
The Government of China has repeatedly claimed that the current crisis in Burma is an "internal affair," but the members of ASEAN know better. As ASEAN legislators from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand stated recently, "Burma is indeed a regional security and stability threat." Burma's neighbors-ASEAN member States and China alike-have a special responsibility to encourage the SPDC to respond to its own citizens' legitimate demands without violence or repression.
We believe the following demands should be made of the SPDC at the upcoming ASEAN summit:
* Stop using violence to quell peaceful dissent in the event of future protests;
* Account for all those persons killed, incarcerated, or illegally detained during the recent protests;
* Release all political prisoners;
* Lift restrictions on the monks who participated in recent protests;
* Lift conditions for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi.
As a Security Council member, it is in China's interest to ensure that all Security Resolutions relating to Burma are implemented. As neighbors of Burma, it is in the interest of China and all ASEAN members to press the SPDC to start the democratization process. Absent peace and human rights in Burma, sustainable regional security is impossible.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
***The other 11 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
Stop the Bloodshed in Burma - Sign the Petition
Monks and innocent citizens were recently slaughtered in Burma for peacefully protesting the oppressive military junta. How much longer can we allow these serious human rights abuses to be perpetrated?
We must bring peace and stability to the region as quickly as possible. China and the countries neighboring Burma can play a very important role at an upcoming meeting, but we need you to help make it happen. The direct influence of these countries on the military junta in Burma cannot be overstated.
Take a minute today to ask these countries to take action on Burma.
Subject:
Take Action on Burma at ASEAN Meeting
Your Excellencies,
It is time for Burma's neighbors to take serious action to stop the bloodshed and bring peace and stability to the region. Therefore, we call upon you to ensure that the upcoming ASEAN meeting in Singapore on November 17, 2007 includes a robust discussion about how ASEAN members States and their partners, including China, can urge the State Peace and Development Council to stop killing peaceful protestors, release political prisoners, and begin a democratization process.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations argued for Burma's admission to the group in 1997, claiming that this would encourage respect for human rights and a democratization process in that country. Ten years later, Burma's military continues to use arms against its own citizens - including Buddhist monks, women, and children - who are guilty of nothing more than a desire for peace, democracy, and human rights in Burma.
The Government of China has repeatedly claimed that the current crisis in Burma is an "internal affair," but the members of ASEAN know better. As ASEAN legislators from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand stated recently, "Burma is indeed a regional security and stability threat." Burma's neighbors-ASEAN member States and China alike-have a special responsibility to encourage the SPDC to respond to its own citizens' legitimate demands without violence or repression.
We believe the following demands should be made of the SPDC at the upcoming ASEAN summit:
* Stop using violence to quell peaceful dissent in the event of future protests;
* Account for all those persons killed, incarcerated, or illegally detained during the recent protests;
* Release all political prisoners;
* Lift restrictions on the monks who participated in recent protests;
* Lift conditions for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi.
As a Security Council member, it is in China's interest to ensure that all Security Resolutions relating to Burma are implemented. As neighbors of Burma, it is in the interest of China and all ASEAN members to press the SPDC to start the democratization process. Absent peace and human rights in Burma, sustainable regional security is impossible.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
Stop the Bloodshed in Burma - Sign the Petition
Monks and innocent citizens were recently slaughtered in Burma for peacefully protesting the oppressive military junta. How much longer can we allow these serious human rights abuses to be perpetrated?
We must bring peace and stability to the region as quickly as possible. China and the countries neighboring Burma can play a very important role at an upcoming meeting, but we need you to help make it happen. The direct influence of these countries on the military junta in Burma cannot be overstated.
Take a minute today to ask these countries to take action on Burma.
Subject:
Take Action on Burma at ASEAN Meeting
Your Excellencies,
It is time for Burma's neighbors to take serious action to stop the bloodshed and bring peace and stability to the region. Therefore, we call upon you to ensure that the upcoming ASEAN meeting in Singapore on November 17, 2007 includes a robust discussion about how ASEAN members States and their partners, including China, can urge the State Peace and Development Council to stop killing peaceful protestors, release political prisoners, and begin a democratization process.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations argued for Burma's admission to the group in 1997, claiming that this would encourage respect for human rights and a democratization process in that country. Ten years later, Burma's military continues to use arms against its own citizens - including Buddhist monks, women, and children - who are guilty of nothing more than a desire for peace, democracy, and human rights in Burma.
The Government of China has repeatedly claimed that the current crisis in Burma is an "internal affair," but the members of ASEAN know better. As ASEAN legislators from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand stated recently, "Burma is indeed a regional security and stability threat." Burma's neighbors-ASEAN member States and China alike-have a special responsibility to encourage the SPDC to respond to its own citizens' legitimate demands without violence or repression.
We believe the following demands should be made of the SPDC at the upcoming ASEAN summit:
* Stop using violence to quell peaceful dissent in the event of future protests;
* Account for all those persons killed, incarcerated, or illegally detained during the recent protests;
* Release all political prisoners;
* Lift restrictions on the monks who participated in recent protests;
* Lift conditions for a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi.
As a Security Council member, it is in China's interest to ensure that all Security Resolutions relating to Burma are implemented. As neighbors of Burma, it is in the interest of China and all ASEAN members to press the SPDC to start the democratization process. Absent peace and human rights in Burma, sustainable regional security is impossible.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
Oct. 24th UN Day / Aung San Suu Kyi Day
***The 11 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
from US Campaign for Burma:
This Wednesday, October 24th, is an important day for Burma. It is: 1) United Nations Day, 2) The day when Aung San Suu Kyi will have been under house arrest for a total of 12 years, and 3) One month since the uprisings in Burma were at their peak.
We will be marking this day with a host of actions around the world.
- Several organizations are working together to organize in 12 cities around the world. At 12 noon, demonstrators dressed in white (as political prisoners are forced to wear inside Burma) will gather in front of Chinese embassies. Please let us know if you want to participate in the demonstration in Washington, DC.
- A group of Burmese monks and exiles have been marching from Albany, NY to the United Nations in a peace walk. On Wednesday, please join with them as they continue their march from the Burmese regime's Mission in New York to the United Nations from 10-11 am. The Mission is located on 10E and 77th St. For more info, the cell phone for the peace walk is (518) 605-8506.
- For those of you who cannot participate in these actions we are asking you to ensure that the American public does not forget Burma. We are asking you on this day to reinvigorate public attention by writing an op-ed article for your local newspaper, write a post on your blog or facebook profile, host a teach in for your friends and neighbors, or for more suggestions visit our action page
The Burmese regime may be the jailer of Aung San Suu Kyi and thousands of other prisoners, but China holds the key to her release. The United Nations Security Council (of which China is a member) must act urgently as more and more people are being hunted down, arrested and tortured. China must not block Security Council action. We will show that we will not allow Burma's regime to hide its abuses from the world.. The United Nations Security Council needs to pass a global arms embargo now!
__________________________
from US Campaign for Burma:
This Wednesday, October 24th, is an important day for Burma. It is: 1) United Nations Day, 2) The day when Aung San Suu Kyi will have been under house arrest for a total of 12 years, and 3) One month since the uprisings in Burma were at their peak.
We will be marking this day with a host of actions around the world.
- Several organizations are working together to organize in 12 cities around the world. At 12 noon, demonstrators dressed in white (as political prisoners are forced to wear inside Burma) will gather in front of Chinese embassies. Please let us know if you want to participate in the demonstration in Washington, DC.
- A group of Burmese monks and exiles have been marching from Albany, NY to the United Nations in a peace walk. On Wednesday, please join with them as they continue their march from the Burmese regime's Mission in New York to the United Nations from 10-11 am. The Mission is located on 10E and 77th St. For more info, the cell phone for the peace walk is (518) 605-8506.
- For those of you who cannot participate in these actions we are asking you to ensure that the American public does not forget Burma. We are asking you on this day to reinvigorate public attention by writing an op-ed article for your local newspaper, write a post on your blog or facebook profile, host a teach in for your friends and neighbors, or for more suggestions visit our action page
The Burmese regime may be the jailer of Aung San Suu Kyi and thousands of other prisoners, but China holds the key to her release. The United Nations Security Council (of which China is a member) must act urgently as more and more people are being hunted down, arrested and tortured. China must not block Security Council action. We will show that we will not allow Burma's regime to hide its abuses from the world.. The United Nations Security Council needs to pass a global arms embargo now!
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Tell Chevron to Stop Paying Royalties to the Junta
***The 11 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
__________________________
A short film clip about Chevron's involvement in Burma. It calls for Chevron to hold royalty payments to the junta in escrow until the return of democracy in Burma. .
The video can be linked HERE.
Please sign Earthrights International's petition urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown, and to stop investing in Burma HERE. It calls on Chevron to "use [its] presence in Burma to pressure the military regime to respect human rights, including the rights to freedom of association and freedom of speech, and to refrain from using any further force against peaceful protestors."
SOME MORE INFORMATION ON CHEVRON
Chevron's Pipeline is the Burmese Regime's Lifeline. Truthdig. Oct. 2, 2007
Chevron's links to Burma stir critics to demand it pull out. San Francisco Chronicle. Oct. 4, 2007
Information for the Protest of Chevron corporation for their involvement with oil and gas projects in Burma. Chevron Protester. Oct. 2, 2007
SIGN Earthrights International's PETITION urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown HERE.
Information for the Protest of Chevron corporation for their involvement with oil and gas projects in Burma (Myanmar). Protest Chevron's Blog HERE.
MORE INFORMATION ON THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY'S INVOLVEMENT IN BURMA HERE.
To learn more
-- For a quick overview of Burma, its people, economy and recent history, go to the World Factbook from the Central Intelligence Agency HERE
-- Chevron Corp. has a brief statement on Burma on the company's Web site. Read it HERE:
-- Want to call Chevron? The main number for the company's San Ramon headquarters is (925) 842-1000.
-- The French oil company Total operates the Burma natural gas project that includes Chevron as a minority investor. For Total's take on the project, look HERE.
__________________________
A short film clip about Chevron's involvement in Burma. It calls for Chevron to hold royalty payments to the junta in escrow until the return of democracy in Burma. .
The video can be linked HERE.
Please sign Earthrights International's petition urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown, and to stop investing in Burma HERE. It calls on Chevron to "use [its] presence in Burma to pressure the military regime to respect human rights, including the rights to freedom of association and freedom of speech, and to refrain from using any further force against peaceful protestors."
SOME MORE INFORMATION ON CHEVRON
Chevron's Pipeline is the Burmese Regime's Lifeline. Truthdig. Oct. 2, 2007
Chevron's links to Burma stir critics to demand it pull out. San Francisco Chronicle. Oct. 4, 2007
Information for the Protest of Chevron corporation for their involvement with oil and gas projects in Burma. Chevron Protester. Oct. 2, 2007
SIGN Earthrights International's PETITION urging Chevron to use its influence to help stop the crackdown HERE.
Information for the Protest of Chevron corporation for their involvement with oil and gas projects in Burma (Myanmar). Protest Chevron's Blog HERE.
MORE INFORMATION ON THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY'S INVOLVEMENT IN BURMA HERE.
To learn more
-- For a quick overview of Burma, its people, economy and recent history, go to the World Factbook from the Central Intelligence Agency HERE
-- Chevron Corp. has a brief statement on Burma on the company's Web site. Read it HERE:
-- Want to call Chevron? The main number for the company's San Ramon headquarters is (925) 842-1000.
-- The French oil company Total operates the Burma natural gas project that includes Chevron as a minority investor. For Total's take on the project, look HERE.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Oct. 24th. Aung San Suu Kyi Day. Organize a Protest!
from the Support the Monks' protest in Burma Facebook Group:
**ACTION OF THE DAY**
ORGANISE A PROTEST FOR THE 24TH
October 24th has been designated Aung San Suu Kyi day.
Aung San Suu Kyi is the democratically elected leader of Burma, on the 24th she will have been under house arrest for 12 years.
To mark this at 12 noon in 12 key cities around the world where 12 people will come together wearing Aung San Suu Kyi masks and dressed in white to protest outside Chinese embassies. Why China? Because they can exert the most influence over Burma and so far they have been dragging their feet. Why White? Because that's what political prisoners are made to wear. The 12 peaceful protestors will be chained together.
We're also trying to organsie candle lit vigils in the evening. this is where you come in, PLEASE ORGANISE A CANDLE LIT VIGIL WHERE YOU LIVE to show solidarity with Aung San Suu Kyi and the thousands of political prisoners in Burma.
For more details and to get your protest listed read this post and add your protest as a comment http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=24957770200&topic=3893
One thing you can do now is to add Aung San Suu Kyi as a friend on Facebook and leave her a note of support on the wall http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=605512080&highlight
**ACTION OF THE DAY**
ORGANISE A PROTEST FOR THE 24TH
October 24th has been designated Aung San Suu Kyi day.
Aung San Suu Kyi is the democratically elected leader of Burma, on the 24th she will have been under house arrest for 12 years.
To mark this at 12 noon in 12 key cities around the world where 12 people will come together wearing Aung San Suu Kyi masks and dressed in white to protest outside Chinese embassies. Why China? Because they can exert the most influence over Burma and so far they have been dragging their feet. Why White? Because that's what political prisoners are made to wear. The 12 peaceful protestors will be chained together.
We're also trying to organsie candle lit vigils in the evening. this is where you come in, PLEASE ORGANISE A CANDLE LIT VIGIL WHERE YOU LIVE to show solidarity with Aung San Suu Kyi and the thousands of political prisoners in Burma.
For more details and to get your protest listed read this post and add your protest as a comment http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=24957770200&topic=3893
One thing you can do now is to add Aung San Suu Kyi as a friend on Facebook and leave her a note of support on the wall http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=605512080&highlight
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
EU Widens Sanctions Against Burma
***The 11 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
On Monday 15 October, we won a partial victory – the 27 EU Foreign Ministers agreed to place trade and investment bans on the generals' timber, mining and gemstone interests, and to prepare further measures depending on whether the brutality stops and progress is made toward dialogue and democratic transition. Thanks to everyone who took action and signed the AVAAZ petition!
The full AP article HERE.
On Monday 15 October, we won a partial victory – the 27 EU Foreign Ministers agreed to place trade and investment bans on the generals' timber, mining and gemstone interests, and to prepare further measures depending on whether the brutality stops and progress is made toward dialogue and democratic transition. Thanks to everyone who took action and signed the AVAAZ petition!
The full AP article HERE.
TAKE ACTION! Tell the UN Sec. General to Demand End to Torture in Burma
From the US Campaign for Burma
Ban Ki-moon: Telephone The Burmese Regime Today to Demand End to Ongoing Torture in Burma
The military continues to hunt down those who have participated in peaceful demonstrations. We are calling on you to take a few moments today to be part of the global voice calling for an end to the abuse of monks and civilians arrested.
This past weekend the military captured 4 promiment democracy activists, including Htay Kywe, one of the last remaining leaders of the 88 Student Generation that had not been captured. The 88 Student Generation has been at the forefront of organizing protests, with the courage to stand up to the ruthless and brutal regime no matter the cost. Htay Kywe had evaded arrest until now. During the past two months, he was vital in educating the world about what was happening inside Burma. We are deeply concerned about his health and safety.
Also arrested was Mee Mee, whose picture with her fist in the air, has become an iconic symbol of the Burmese people during the protests in August and September (as seen above). We fear for her and the suffering she will most likely endure, as a political prisoner and as a woman.
The few remaining members of the 88 Student Generation have already sent a letter to Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon urging him to take action to protect prisoners, and stop arrests, and we must support their call.
It is more than just these arrests that concern us. Thousands of monks and civilians have been arrested in the past 2 weeks and we are receiving disturbing reports about the treatment of these prisoners. Torture, denying medical treatment and food, disrobing monks, and even death are regular occurrences for those imprisoned. We are deeply concerned for the fate of those imprisoned. Many activists have serious medical problems because of their previous imprisonments. For a list of monasteries raided, people arrested, disappeared, and killed, go to the AAPP website (Assistance Association for the Political Prisoners of Burma) HERE.
Please just take a few moments today to send an email to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, urging him to take more concrete measures to ensure that the brutal treatment of prisoners stops. SEND AN EMAIL HERE. http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/1189/t/3074/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=16909 He needs to pick up the phone today and demand from the Burmese Generals that the arrests and torturing of political prisoners stops. He must make it a personal priority to call Burma's generals, to demand that the International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) or other organizations can at least have access to the prisoners and to push for the release of all political prisoners.
Ban Ki-moon: Telephone The Burmese Regime Today to Demand End to Ongoing Torture in Burma
The military continues to hunt down those who have participated in peaceful demonstrations. We are calling on you to take a few moments today to be part of the global voice calling for an end to the abuse of monks and civilians arrested.
This past weekend the military captured 4 promiment democracy activists, including Htay Kywe, one of the last remaining leaders of the 88 Student Generation that had not been captured. The 88 Student Generation has been at the forefront of organizing protests, with the courage to stand up to the ruthless and brutal regime no matter the cost. Htay Kywe had evaded arrest until now. During the past two months, he was vital in educating the world about what was happening inside Burma. We are deeply concerned about his health and safety.
Also arrested was Mee Mee, whose picture with her fist in the air, has become an iconic symbol of the Burmese people during the protests in August and September (as seen above). We fear for her and the suffering she will most likely endure, as a political prisoner and as a woman.
The few remaining members of the 88 Student Generation have already sent a letter to Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon urging him to take action to protect prisoners, and stop arrests, and we must support their call.
It is more than just these arrests that concern us. Thousands of monks and civilians have been arrested in the past 2 weeks and we are receiving disturbing reports about the treatment of these prisoners. Torture, denying medical treatment and food, disrobing monks, and even death are regular occurrences for those imprisoned. We are deeply concerned for the fate of those imprisoned. Many activists have serious medical problems because of their previous imprisonments. For a list of monasteries raided, people arrested, disappeared, and killed, go to the AAPP website (Assistance Association for the Political Prisoners of Burma) HERE.
Please just take a few moments today to send an email to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, urging him to take more concrete measures to ensure that the brutal treatment of prisoners stops. SEND AN EMAIL HERE. http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/1189/t/3074/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=16909 He needs to pick up the phone today and demand from the Burmese Generals that the arrests and torturing of political prisoners stops. He must make it a personal priority to call Burma's generals, to demand that the International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) or other organizations can at least have access to the prisoners and to push for the release of all political prisoners.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Tell Chevron to Divest from Burma NOW
Join the over two thousand people who have already taken action -
Sign the petition urging Chevron to use its influence NOW!
Listen/Watch Katie Redford discuss the issue on Democracy NOW!
And Chevron Corporation, the largest remaining U.S. company in Burma is now a partner with the junta in the notorious Yadana natural gas pipeline project. This project alone funnels tens of millions of dollars to the regime, money the military desperately need to retain its stranglehold on power. Despite Chevron's material support for the regime, and direct complicity in extensive human rights abuses, Chevron claims that it can play a positive role in contributing to the protection of human rights. Empty rhetoric is not a substitute for action, however, and now is the time for action. EarthRights believes these companies are not socially or politically neutral; given Unocal/Chevron's shameful behavior thus far, Chevron owes the people of Burma a moral obligation to immediately use its influence with the regime to help prevent the mass slaughter of peaceful protestors.
TAKE ACTION NOW - Sign the petition urging Chevron to use its influence!
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
Sign the petition urging Chevron to use its influence NOW!
Listen/Watch Katie Redford discuss the issue on Democracy NOW!
As you already know, the pro-democracy protests in Burma that began in response to sharp increases in fuel prices were violently suppressed. But the oil and gas corporations themselves, who are partnered with the military government in gas export projects, have shown no sign of trying to prevent further bloodshed.Instead, Thai-owned PTTEP issued a statement assuring the public that their investment was not jeopardized by the unrest. Furthermore, India’s ONGC Videsh, along with India’s Petroleum Minister Murli Deora, traveled to Burma amidst the protests to sign three new deals to extract and export natural gas.
And Chevron Corporation, the largest remaining U.S. company in Burma is now a partner with the junta in the notorious Yadana natural gas pipeline project. This project alone funnels tens of millions of dollars to the regime, money the military desperately need to retain its stranglehold on power. Despite Chevron's material support for the regime, and direct complicity in extensive human rights abuses, Chevron claims that it can play a positive role in contributing to the protection of human rights. Empty rhetoric is not a substitute for action, however, and now is the time for action. EarthRights believes these companies are not socially or politically neutral; given Unocal/Chevron's shameful behavior thus far, Chevron owes the people of Burma a moral obligation to immediately use its influence with the regime to help prevent the mass slaughter of peaceful protestors.
TAKE ACTION NOW - Sign the petition urging Chevron to use its influence!
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Prison Conditions, Torture Techniques Appalling
Please TAKE ACTION and sign the following AVAAZ Petition HERE. It calls on the EU foreign ministers to impose sanctions on Burma. This comes as a critical time, as they will meet on Monday, Oct. 15, in 3 days! Please forward widely.
(http://www.avaaz.org/en/eu_squeeze_the_junta/tf.php?cl_tf_sign=1)
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
According to The Human Rights Yearbook for 1997-98, compiled by the Human Rights Documentation Unit of the exiled National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma, lists the methods of torture commonly employed in interrogation centers, which include:
(http://www.avaaz.org/en/eu_squeeze_the_junta/tf.php?cl_tf_sign=1)
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
According to The Human Rights Yearbook for 1997-98, compiled by the Human Rights Documentation Unit of the exiled National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma, lists the methods of torture commonly employed in interrogation centers, which include:
beatings rigorous to cause permanent injury; shackling of the legs or arms; burning victims with cigarettes; applying electric shocks to the victims' genitals, finger tips, toes, ear lobes, and elsewhere; suffocation; stabbing; rubbing of salt and chemicals in open wounds; forcing victims to stand in unusual and uncomfortable positions for extended periods of time, including 'riding the motorcycle,' which entails standing with warms outstretched and legs bent, and the 'helicopter,' in which the victim is suspended by the wrists or feet from a ceiling fixture and then spun around; deprivation of light and sleep; denial of medicine, food, exercise, and water for washing; employing the 'iron rod' in which iron or bamboo rods are rolled up and down the shins until the skin is lacerated; ordering solitary confinement with extremely small and insanitary cells for prolonged periods, and using psychological torture including threats of death and rape.
Friday, October 12, 2007
URGENT ACTION: PETITION TO CALL ON THE EU FOR SANCTIONS
Friends, please TAKE ACTION and sign the following AVAAZ.org Petition HERE. It calls on the EU foreign ministers to impose sanctions on Burma. This comes as a critical time, as they will meet on Monday, Oct. 15, in 3 days! Please forward widely.
___________________
This Monday October 15, the 27 foreign ministers of the European Union will meet--and decide whether to keep their word on Burma.
More than three weeks ago, the day before the junta's brutal crackdown began, the EU warned that it would "not hesitate to reinforce and strengthen the existing sanctions regime" if the government resorted to violence.
Let's stand with the Burmese people and urge our foreign ministers to strengthen the sanctions - while offering aid and incentives for progress. Enter your information below, personalize the email message--or just hit send.
Sign the PETITION HERE.
(http://www.avaaz.org/en/eu_squeeze_the_junta/tf.php?cl_tf_sign=1)
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
No thanks, we'll handle it our way, says China.
___________________
This Monday October 15, the 27 foreign ministers of the European Union will meet--and decide whether to keep their word on Burma.
More than three weeks ago, the day before the junta's brutal crackdown began, the EU warned that it would "not hesitate to reinforce and strengthen the existing sanctions regime" if the government resorted to violence.
As atrocities in Burma worsen, the EU must act. By threatening the generals' economic interests, targeted sanctions can squeeze the military and push them into negotiations without hurting the Burmese people. That's why the democracy movement and Aung San Suu Kyi are asking us to act, saying "Please use your liberty to promote ours."
Let's stand with the Burmese people and urge our foreign ministers to strengthen the sanctions - while offering aid and incentives for progress. Enter your information below, personalize the email message--or just hit send.
Sign the PETITION HERE.
(http://www.avaaz.org/en/eu_squeeze_the_junta/tf.php?cl_tf_sign=1)
***The other 10 ONLINE PETITIONS FOR BURMA HERE.***
No thanks, we'll handle it our way, says China.
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