Myanmar produces more than 90% of the world’s rubies and jade, and these stones command the highest prices on the international market. Because it dominates Burma’s gemstone industry, the Myanmar military profits when high-end jewelry retailers – like Harry Winston (owned by Swatch) – buy Burmese gems for their collections. Today, let’s take three actions to … Read more
Last weekend, thousands of people gathered across the world in support of Myanmar’s new National Unity Government. In Washington, DC, thousands rallied outside the White House and then marched to Congress to demand that it introduce a new Burma bill. In the past week, we have together ramped up our email, phone calls, and Zoom meetings … Read more
Not content with letting Covid ravage Myanmar, Myanmar army chief Min Aung Hlaing marked the six-month point of his military coup by declaring himself prime minister of a supposed “caretaker government.” The civilian National Unity Government quickly labeled the rebranded regime an “unlawful association.” The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners has estimated that the military junta has … Read more
Me Me Khant, Sandra Kong, and Mike Haack On March 3rd, 2021, the Burmese military shot a bullet into the neck of a 19-year old pro-democracy protester in Mandalay. The bullet killed her, but it awakened a revolution with entirely new energy and power. The whole nation rose up to say her name, tell her … Read more