Don't call it a junta

 

Here are some thoughts on the first few weeks of February 2021. The tatmadaw(myanmar military) arrested Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb 1. It didn't really seem real at first. They charged her with illegal importation of 6 walkie talkies. They said the vote was rigged. They issued rules that they were not be referred to as a junta and that it wasn't a coup but a cabinet reshuffle. But it was real, and it has unfolded in a surreal, strange mess of days. 

There were international condemnations. Words that were appreciated by the protesters but have since amounted to not much in the way of action. As one local paper put it- no help is coming.

So people took it upon themselves to be the change. Huge crowds that peacefully marched and cheered. They had humor- dressing in evening gowns and cosplay. They had compassion giving food and water to police. They even cleaned up after themselves. (a note: None of the following pictures are mine- lifted from images)

It was also inspiring to see the art that rose to the forefront. Here are a few variations of the hunger games fingers that the protesters adopted. They come from a powerful organization called art for freedom and are worth checking out. 

a few more posters reference the banging of pots and pans. Every night at 8pm a loud chorus arises in the city. This is the same as what would happen in Venezuela when we lived there. If you question the importance or power of this, consider: You might feel alone in this world. Even more so due to covid19. Even more so when a coup has happened. The banging of pots and pans isn't just a noisy release of pent up anger/ energy. Its a connection and its beautiful.

I am not sure what this one says but that font is on point

The milk tea alliance references the neighboring countries that have all had their share of ruling parties that weren't wanted. Strength in numbers.

But things have changed. It doesn't feel festive anymore, people are being shot in the street. It is not good.

So wherever you are in the world, bang on a pot tonight at 8pm and raise your 3 fingers. I know gestures don't topple dictators, but there is an energy in connections and the Burmese need some energy from you.