Unfinished Struggle

Dear all comrades who are striving to restore Democracy in Burma,

I have a very good news for you. As we do not believe in the present puppet government, controlled by the military regime of Burma, we are staying abroad and continue our unfinished struggle until we can get rid of the regime. I have just received a message from USCB and it reads:

Congress renews Burma Sanctions

Dear Maungmaung,

You did it! Thanks to all your help and efforts, Congress has passed the renewal of the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act (BFDA). Because of your phone calls and emails, Congress recognized that much more needs to be done to ensure genuine democracy, national reconciliation and human rights for all in Burma by renewing the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act.

The passing of the renewal of the BFDA shows that Congress agrees with you; that looming problems in Burma still need to be addressed. Even today, there are hundreds of political prisoners still behind bars. The violence and cruel treatment against ethnic minorities, predominantly carried out by the Burmese military, is as prevalent as ever. In anticipation of foreign investments, land confiscation cases are on the rise, leaving many villagers and farmers without land or a home. The passing of the BFDA signifies that Congress recognizes the need to maintain some leverage in Burma in order to ensure genuine democracy, national reconciliation, human rights, justice and accountability for all the people of Burma.

Thank you for helping us to take steps to fight for freedom in Burma and for speaking out for those who cannot speak for themselves.

In solidarity,

USCB Team

Aung San Suu Kyi speech in Norway on June 16, 2012

Killer inside Parliament

BURMA'S POLITICAL SCENE

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

RIGGING BEFORE THE ELECTION

Message from USCB

Dear Maungmaung,

Zarganar is Burma's most famous comedian, and for his relentless commitment to speaking the truth he has served more than 11 years in prison. Now he is free (released October 2011 with conditions), and today we have a special video message from him to YOU, the amazing members of U.S. Campaign for Burma.

In his own words he says, "Now, many political prisoners in Burma have been released, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you on behalf of my fellow former political..."You guys have been doing a great job!" While he is free and able to travel around, Zarganar is also concerned about other political prisoners who are still in jail and he urges you all to "please continue your campaign for the release of all the remaining political prisoners immediately and unconditionally."

Upon his release, Zarganar was able to make an advocacy trip to the U.S. in February 2012. Khin Than Myint, a leading advocate for women's rights, and Bawk Jar, a Kachin activist, were also able to join Zarganar on this trip. The USCB secured many meetings for them with top U.S officials including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; Senior Director for Multilateral Affairs at the National Security Council Samantha Power; Special Representative and Policy Coordinator for Burma Ambassador Derek Mitchell; and Burma's long time human rights supporter and House's Chief Deputy Whip Congressman Joseph Crowley. He was also honored at Amnesty International's 50th anniversary comedy show The Secret Policeman's Ball in New York City.

As much as you have heard and read about the changes happening in central Burma, the situation in the ethnic areas hasn't changed. Widespread human rights abuses continue despite the fact that Burma claims to have transitioned into the civilian government. Read this recent report from the Free Burma Rangers about abuses that have happened in Karen areas since the so-called ceasefire agreement in January. USCB and the people of Burma still need your support as Zarganar says, "please continue your effort to help us achieve real freedom and sustainable national reconciliation in Burma."

In Gratitude and Solidarity,

U.S. Campaign for Burma Team