Free Burma

Allow me to get political for a moment, if you will.

As a Buddhist (though admittedly, not a very good one), the latest news from Burma has affected me deeply. The military rule and the treatment of Burmese people is bad enough, but hearing news that monks have been beaten and killed for peaceful protests just infuriates and saddens me.

There will be a peaceful protest of the Burmese government's rule and the world's lack of supportive action to the Burmese people this Saturday in Los Angeles (for those in other counties, states or countries who want to protest, please see this link for details on your area). The protesters will meet outside the Kojak Theater in Hollywood at 4pm and the protest will continue until 7pm; there will be no marching due to city restrictions. There are more details here.

If you can, PLEASE be there. Protesters should try to wear something red, and bring signs and candles or be prepared to chant slogans. Even if all you can bring is yourself, please do so if you can.

Why are we protesting? By now, almost everyone is aware of what has been happening in Burma over the last week, but if not, here are some articles from the BBC recapping the situation:

Q&A: Protests in Burma

Burmese media cut off

Who are Burma's monks?

Aung San Suu Kyi