Burma week shows political climate, raises relief funds

Amnesty International and the Multicultural Center at Portland State are holding events this week to raise awareness about the political situation in Burma and human right abuses perpetrated by the country’s military dictatorship.

Amnesty International and the Multicultural Center at Portland State are holding events this week to raise awareness about the political situation in Burma and human right abuses perpetrated by the country’s military dictatorship.

“In planning this event, we really wanted to demonstrate that we have not forgotten about the 1988, or the 2007 protests [in Burma],” said Misty Kosydar, who is heading the organization of the event.

The three-day event, which is being held Nov. 13 to15, will feature speakers and presentations about political and social unrest that have occurred since a military coup ended democratic rule in the country in 1962. The events will be held in room 228 of Smith Memorial Student Union.

“The main aim of this week of events is to provide attendees with information on how they, themselves, can do something to help end the human rights violations taking place within Burma” said Kosydar.

On Nov. 13, Edith Mirante, creator of Project Maje and the author of several books dealing with her interactions with Burmese people, will present a keynote address about the social and political climate of Burma. Project Maje is a compilation of information on Burma’s human rights and environmental issues.

The country’s situation has worsened since the cost of fuel was significantly raised in the country in August 2007, according to the BBC.

The keynote will be followed by documentaries about exiles and activists from Burma, as well as the country’s democratically elected leader who has been held under house arrest for the past 16 years by the military. The event will last from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

On Nov. 14, local activists who have worked with advocacy groups and Burmese refugees will share their experiences and participate in a Q-and-A session. The event will last from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The last day of the event will honor Burmese monks and refugees. Stenciled T-shirts will be available to purchase. The proceeds will be donated to the Thailand Burma Border Consortium, an international relief group.

“We are proud to be part of this event and will work towards making it a success,” said Sa’eed Haji, event coordinator and assistant at the multicultural center. The event will be held from noon to 4 p.m.

“I wanted it to be made clear that individuals here stand in support with the people and monks of Burma, and do not agree with the human rights violations that are taking place,” Kosydar said. “I hope this event also lends its voice to the ultimate goal of removing the military junta which currently presides over Burma.”