On May 1st, in remembrance of the first anniversary of Cyclone Nargis, an extraordinary Burmese choir will bring the gift of their music to the Cowell Theater in San Francisco. Their stories of courage and hope will honor the strength of the human spirit through song, and the evening will include a special guest performance by Joan Baez.
Tickets for the event begin at $25 for general admission, and go up to the $500 Saffron Supporter level, which includes admission for 2 at the pre-event Mingala Reception with the Gitameit Choir, 2 reserved tickets, plus $350 tax deductible donation to Foundation for the People of Burma.
For more information on the event, visit the Foundation for the People of Burma website. To purchase tickets, click here.
May 3rd, 2009 marks the first anniversary of the day that the storm hit ground in Burma. Burma’s Emergency Assistance Team (EAT-Burma) estimates at least 2.4 million were displaced, killed, or affected by the storm and its aftermath. A number of relief workers, including comedian Zarganar, remain locked-up for their efforts.
EAT-Burma was established in 2008 through the collaboration of Burmese community-based organizations. They have been working to deliver food, water, health services, and rehabilitation aid to the people affected by the storm. This week they have called for communities around the globe to participate in a day of remembrance on the one-year anniversary of the cyclone.
Participate
Other events are planned around the world to commemorate this day and you are welcome to organize your own vigil or remembrance event on Sunday, May 3rd. Here are a couple of other events that have already been planned:
New York City
Khetmar, co-founder of Zagawa Environment Network, will share her experience saving the lives of Cyclone Nargis victims and the oppression they faced. April 30th at 7pm. 80 Park Avenue Apt. 20B. Space is limited, please RSVP to Moe Chan oway_student@yahoo.com.
Washington, DC
Vigil in front of Burma’s military attache (2300 California St. NW). May 3rd at Noon. For more information contact Mike at mike@uscampaignforburma.org.
If you would like to organize your own event or would like U.S. Campaign for Burma to let our members know about an event that you have already organized, please contact Mike at mike@uscampaignforburma.org.
Take Action
The regime’s reaction to the cyclone proves that a political resolution is needed to solve Burma’s humanitarian problems. For more information on the regime’s response to the storm see the new report, After the Storm: Voices from the Delta, released by John Hopkins University and Mae Tao Clinic.
The release of the the Junta’s 2,100 political prisoners would be a vital step toward creating a government that is responsive to the will of Burma’s people. You can sign the global petition to voice your support to release all political prisoners and set Burma free.
