Show support for "Saffron Revolution"

Last Wednesday, I was happy to see The Chronicle guest column, "Eyes on Burma," discussing the situation in Burma. Although I cannot summarize the matter any better than that column's author, I would like to reiterate her message and issue a call to action for the Duke community. Two years ago, I received a grant from Duke to travel to Thailand and research the work being done by Burmese political refugees to enact change within their nation. Many academics I met there feverishly wrote articles and essays to attract attention to their cause. But toward this end, they were unsuccessful. Too few people were listening.

Events of the past week have changed this. The recent protests against authoritarianism in Burma have garnered attention worldwide. Even actor Jim Carrey has spoken out, posting a YouTube video asking the public to e-mail U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon to get the issue placed on the Security Council's agenda. I would encourage all to watch his message and send an e-mail, but there are other ways to help too.

Last Wednesday's guest columnist asked students to learn more about the issue. If you haven't already done so, students will be distributing information about Burma's struggle today on the Plaza. You can also sign a petition on the Web site of the U.S. Campaign for Burma that asks Chinese President Hu Jintao to use his leverage with the Burmese junta to encourage national reconciliation. Then, at noon on Tuesday, all are invited to a rally on the Chapel steps that will show solidarity with the protesters in Burma. Even if you are unable to come, please show your support for what activists have begun to call the "Saffron Revolution" (after the color of the monks' robes) by wearing maroon or red on that day.

Two summers ago, a Burmese academic told me that "the Burmese problem is that nobody is serious about Burma." It's time to prove otherwise-and your help is required.

Evan Stewart

Trinity '08