March for Myanmar Virtual 5K

What?

We, the Burmese Diaspora, are supporting the people of Myanmar in their fight for democracy and justice. Join us as we embark on a 7 week fundraising campaign culminating with a virtual 5K on Saturday April 17, 2021. Funds will be given directly to activists and organizations in Myanmar engaging in education and equality efforts. We commit to being transparent regarding fund distribution while simultaneously prioritizing the safety of the people in Myanmar that we are working with. 

Why?

On February 1, 2021, the Armed Forces of Myanmar (Tatmadaw) seized power from the democratically elected officials of Myanmar in a coup d'état. The majority party, the National League for Democracy, had won 396 out of 476 seats in parliament during the November 8, 2020 general elections. The military's proxy party won only 33 seats. The army claimed that the vote was fraudulent and proclaimed a year-long state of emergency with General Min Aung Hlaing as head of state. The democratically elected leaders remain detained at this time and the people of Myanmar have started a Civil Disobedience Movement. The army have long been the perpetrators of multiple human rights violations against the people of Myanmar,  Rakhine State, Kachin State, Shan State, and more. 

FAQ:

How can you help? 

There's room for everyone! In this unprecedented year, we understand that people are in difficult financial states. You can help us by sharing, commenting, or performing your own research to raise awareness. If you can donate, $1 USD is equal to $1,400 Burmese Kyat so truly any amount counts.  And lastly, you can join us in the virtual 5K on April 17, 2021!

What is a Virtual 5k?

If you want to participate in the virtual 5K, we are asking for people to join us on a 3.1 mile run/walk/move on April 17, 2021. Take a picture at the end of the 3.1 mile and we'll share the post!

Why April 17, 2021?

One of the country's most important holidays is Thingyan, which is the Myanmar/Burmese New Year. This year, the water festival and new year celebrations take place from April 13-16, 2021. As such, we would love to start the New Year with a celebration of movement, people, equality, justice, and action with the 5K. 

Where are the funds going?

1. Education Fund: Your donations will go towards an education fund for school-age children in provinces in Myanmar hardest hit by the pandemic who could not start school last year due to the pandemic and who are not enrolling this year in defiance of military mandates. Children are the future and the military have not been sparing children in their brutality.

2. Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) Fund: Your donations will go towards supporting the CDM movement in Myanmar. You can note if you want to specifically donate to medical clinics and support staff providing care for patients with Covid and people who sustained trauma from the military.