Driving for Burma

Burmese Community Canada

2010-01-13T00:44:00.000-08:00

Burmese Community Canada.

http://burmesecommunity.ca

Gunning for democracy

2008-01-08T03:56:00.000-08:00

Jane Bao
January 7, 2008

Exiled dissident pulls over in Toronto

When Si Thu hits the road, everybody pays attention. For the past month, his BMW 318 has been a moving billboard, championing Burmese democracy across North America. Five provinces, 13 states, and over 15,000 kilometres later, the car is still emblazoned with the words “Free Burma,” the country’s flag, and photos of Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for Democracy.

When he reached his first stop in the Drive for Burma campaign, Washington D.C., a friend helped contact someone in the next city. What started out as a self-financed solo project quickly gathered supporters among the Burmese community, who housed Si Thu in their homes or in Buddhist temples, and planned protests in front of Chinese consulates and Burmese embassies.

“We are working together, everybody, to finish this trip,” said Si Thu.

A military junta has ruled Burma since 1962, when General Ne Win took control of the country in a coup. Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, a rallying figure for the democratic movement, has been under house arrest for 12 of the past 18 years.

Si Thu was spurred to action when the military reportedly rounded up thousands of Burmese monks in October 2007, snuffing out their peaceful anti-government protests.

The Burmese-Canadian, who marched and saw combat in 1988’s bloody demonstrations, regained his conviction that peaceful protest would not suffice.

“Before I had in my mind, soldiers are like people, our own people, why do we have to kill each other? Now I saw on the television […] They are soldiers, they don’t care. They hit the people, they’re killing monks, and so they are not human anymore. They are not people anymore.”

On August 8, 1988, the whole country took to the streets in a general strike for democracy. The government planted agitators to incite violence and the army opened fire on protesters on Sept. 18, killing thousands.

Si Thu, then freshly out of high school, marched with other students in Moulmein, the third-largest city in Burma. After the shooting began, he and a group of 30 others took a four-day, three-night boat trip to the Thai border, where ethnic militia were supposed to provide them with weapons.

“We were going to come back and fight. We were going to take down this military regime.

“But when we got there, situation is totally different. There’s no arms, there’s no place to live, nothing to eat, nothing.”

Expecting to return home immediately, Si Thu had brought nothing. “Not even an ID card,” he said.

“Then we formed the ABSDF—the All Burma Students’ Democratic Front. It’s an army. A student army.”

After seeing battle, once as a combatant and once as a paramedic, Si Thu decided to pursue other means of resistance. “The regime is at the top,” he said. “At the battle, it’s just regular people like us. So we are killing each other for nothing.”

But the recent brutal crackdown on Burmese monks has brought another change of heart.

Si Thu still considers himself part of the ABSDF and helps the group financially. He said he would take up arms again when the time comes. “If you want to go to war, nobody supports it. But for us, we need to fight it, our own way.”

Though defiant, he expressed concern about fallout from his declaration.

“If you put this thing in the newspaper, and people read it, they’re going to think I am a terrorist.”

GUNNING FOR DEMOCRACY - PART TWO

Source: The Varsity

Back at home now...

2008-01-02T17:25:00.000-08:00

My trip is successfully finish.
I am back home now.

Thank you everyone.
Without you, this trip could not have succeeded.

That means, we are united and we can fight for freedom in Burma together.

Again, Thanks everyone. Si Thu

Beijing Olympics Float of Shame - Pasadena CA

2007-12-31T16:05:00.000-08:00

PLEASE TURN YOUR BACK

TO THE BEIJING OLYMPICS FLOAT OF SHAME
IN THE 2008 ROSE PARADE

China has taken advantage of Pasadena to include a propaganda float
in the 2008 year’s Annual Rose Parade to be held on New Year’s Day

While China readies to host the Olympics in 2008, it has already won the gold medal for being the number 1 supporter of Burma’s brutal military regime. China is the biggest financial supporter and arms supplier of the military junta in Burma. Using arms supplied by China, the Burmese military, like China in the past, has killed thousands of people including recent killings of peaceful protesters and monks. Not only China refuses to condemn the ongoing atrocities in Burma but it continues blocking the US and UN efforts to bring about peace and restoration of democracy in Burma.

It is TIME we say to China, stop your bloody game in Burma

TIME: 9:00 a.m.

WHERE: Sierra Madre Blvd
(between Colorado Blvd and Walnut St)

UPDATE - Due to technical difficulties, our meeting point for the Rose Parade Day event has moved to the corner of La Tierra St. and Sierra Madre Blvd which is not too far from the original location. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. Please feel free to contact us if you need further info.

Contact:
tutpi@msn.com (OR)
Tha Tha: (310) 753-3467/753-2176

NOTE:

We recommend carpooling and coming to the event as early as possible. Parking is a premium during this time and some sections of the parade route may be closed to traffic. Please contact us if you have trouble coming to the event.

Please see the website below for more info on Rose Parade.
http://www.tournamentofroses.com/roseparade/

PARKING

Reserved Parade parking for automobiles, buses and recreational vehicles is available through Sharp Seating Company, official seating company of the

Tournament of Roses, (626) 795-4171 and the
City of Pasadena, (626) 744-6470.

You may also contact Easy Parking Service (626) 286-7576.
http://easyparkingservice.com/

Paid parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis at various lots and parking structures near the Parade route.

Overnight parking on Pasadena streets begins at noon the day before the parade, for that evening only. All No Parking areas and red curb zones remain off-limits, and vehicles in violation will be subject to impound and a fine.

There is no parking allowed on the parade route. Illegally parked vehicles will be impounded. Impound information: 626-744-4565.

TRANSPORTATION

Metro Rail's Gold line makes it easier than ever to get to Pasadena's Annual Tournament of Roses Parade. Exit at the Memorial Park, Lake, Allen or Del Mar stations; all are just a short walk from the parade route. Avoid the traffic and parking hassles. Just hop on board!

Also, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority will provide regular bus service to areas near the Rose Parade, Rose Bowl Game and Post Parade areas. Buses will be originating from locations throughout the county.

For additional information on the Metro and Buses, please call the
MTA information line at 1-800-COMMUTE (266-6883) or
visit www.mta.net
The hearing impaired line is 1-800-252-9040.

Jotman's Interview with Si Thu

2007-12-27T15:06:00.000-08:00

Jotman's talk with a man who got behind the wheel for Burma

December 27, 2007

Today I spoke with a Burmese activist from Toronto who is literally driven to raise awareness about the Burma crisis in North America. Si Thu is on the final leg of "Driving for Burma," a trip around North America. more...

Merry Christmas!!

2007-12-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

Vancouver has been good to me this Xmas eve. We had lovely weather this afternoon for the drive around town. Friends and family showed up with flags and bumper stickers and we drove along Robson Drive.

I would like to thank everyone who organized and participated in this event.

I will be hanging out in Vancouver for Xmas then it is off to Calgary. I'd like to wish everyone a Safe Merry Christmas!!

Back in Canada

2007-12-23T20:43:00.000-08:00

Its good to be back home in Canada. Canada welcomed me with snow. I almost never made it, running into a patch of black ice on HWY 1. I lost control of the car and ran into a ditch. Had some help from the police, the paramedics and the tow truck driver. I am perfectly fine and so is the car.

Car Rally

Tomorrow we will be driving in downtown Robson before we end our trip at the Chinese consulate. Please see below for the details:

Time:
11:30a.m. for 12:00 p.m.

Meeting Place:
IMPARK parking lot between Cambie and Beatty (on Georgia)
adjacent to Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

Route:
Exit parking lot (left turn) on Cambie,
cross George intersection and
turn right on Robson Street;
drive along Robson till Denman Street, and then
turn left on Davie Street;
drive along Davie and turn right on Howe Street;
drive across Granville Bridge, and along Granville Street until 16th Avenue.
Then, turn left into 16th Avenue and stop.
End of tour.

The Chinese Consulate is on Granville at 16th Avenue.

Any comments or suggestions are welcome.

Come and join us
"Free Burma" bumper sticks will be available from Ko Soe Naing or Inn Yu at the parking lot if you require one.

2007-12-23T12:37:00.000-08:00

Canada
2007-2008

Season's Greetings
Everybody

Thanks very much
for all your support

from

SiThu
Driving for Burma

***

Media Advisory: Driving for Burma: 15,436 kilometre across North America

2007-12-21T14:15:00.000-08:00

December 21, 2007

Ottawa – Si Thu, a former 1988 student activist living in Toronto, will reach to the West Coast of Canada tomorrow from Seattle as part of his “Driving for Burma” initiative that was aimed to raise awareness on the situation in Burma.

“I don’t want to diminish world’s attention on the appalling situation in Burma,” said Si Thu. “I am taking this initiative to remind people across North America that human rights violation in Burma continue unabated and international community should continue to pay enough attention and support for ongoing democracy movement in Burma,” he added.

Si Thu was a student activist in the 1988 democracy uprising in Burma and fled the country after the Burmese army brutally cracked down the popular movement. He arrived in Canada a decade ago and lives in Toronto.

His solo driving journey started out on December 1, 2007 at Toronto. His car, emblazoned with the word “Free Burma”, pictures of Burmese democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and monks, turns many heads as he drives through major cities in the U.S as part of a 15,436 kilometre drive across North America stopping off at key cities to address politicians, dignitaries, campaigners and Burmese exiles.

He will arrive in Vancouver on Dec. 22 and continues to raise awareness on the situation in Burma with the support of local activists. Canadian Friends of Burma (CFOB) supports his initiative and is providing necessary assistance and arrangements during his tour in Canada.

The following is his planned road trip in Canada:

Vancouver - Dec 22-26
Vancouver to Calgary - Dec 27
Calgary to Regina - Dec 28
Regina to Winnipeg - Dec 29
Winnipeg to Thunderbay - Dec 30
Thunderbay to Sault Ste Marie - Dec 31
Sault Ste Marie to TORONTO - 1 January 2008 (returning to base)

Si Thu is available for interviews along the route of the journey.

He can be reached at
(416) 230 0901 in Canada
Web blog: http://drivingforburma.blogspot.com/

in San Fransisco

2007-12-20T17:40:00.000-08:00

I arrived in San Fransisco around 7 pm. Later that night I was treated to Thai food and I stayed overnight at a comrade 's house. Next day we want to the Chinese Consulate office to demonstrate. It was raining at that time. After that, Ko Nyunt Than and U Win Maung (BADASF) took me to the Congressman's office and we had a chat with the congressman's staff.

Thanks to U Win Maung for all the arrangements and for taking care of me all the time. He is a really nice man. Thanks everybody in San Fransisco.

So Far...

2007-12-20T17:31:00.001-08:00

My time in Los Angeles...

2007-12-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

I arrived in LA to Ko Maw Gyi's house on Dec 15th at 6:30 pm. There were lots of people welcoming me. I was really surprised, very happy and thanks to everyone who came to meet me. They are like true brothers and sisters, as a big family, they treated me as their brother. I was made very comfortable, now I have more energy to continue my trip.

Next day, we went to the Buddhist Temple to gather everybody. We ate at the Buddhist Temple then we went to start the car rally. We stopped at the City Hall and the Former Mayor of Pasadena, Bill Paparian participated with us too. He presented me with an official pin of the City of Pasadena and welcomed me to his city. Later, we went to the local City Mayor House and delivered a letter to the Mayor by myself. We continued the car rally towards Hollywood and we eat dinner at Ko Soe restaurant (Jasmin).

I was really surprised about the LA trip and I would like to thank Ko Maw Gyi's family, Ko Pae and all the people in LA. Now I really really want to move-in to LA :)

There are a lots of things to talk about LA, like early in the morning we stopped at the car wash station for a car wash. Before finishing the washing , one gentleman approached us and talked about my trip and asked few questions. He gave me a donation for the gas. His name is Richard, Thank You Richard.

Yoma's 'samusar' is really good too. Ko Maw Gyi fixed her up (car) before I left to San Fransisco and now she is all good. When I was in LA, Ko Maw Gyi took care of me with everything. I would like to say Thanks to Ko Maw Gyi. I would like to say more than thanks but I don't know the words.

You are welcomed to view the LA pictures at the bottom right hand side of the page.

So Far....

2007-12-18T01:20:00.000-08:00

UPDATE from Los Angeles

2007-12-16T19:14:00.000-08:00

While I was in Fremont Central, Si Thu informed that he has engine problems, the mechanic Ko Maw Gyi will try to repair it by tomorrow morning (Monday 12 17-07).

Si Thu hopes to leave Los Angeles around noon as scheduled. Keeping in mind the distance is 375 miles and 6 hrs 9 mins drive. The "Finishing Line" is at 1924 Cedar street, at Bonita, Berkeley, CA.

Ko Si Thu was invited and he will be attending Ma Soe Yin Sa Ya, Daw Gyi, U Kaw Wei Da Bi Won Tha's, 'Dham Ma Talk' in Berkeley, California . 7:00 P.M. to 9:30 P.M.

Meeting with Si Thu for discussions will continue (1) after the 'Dham Ma Talk'.
Everyone who wishes to come are most welcome.
Si Thu will be spending Tuesday December 18th in San Francisco.
Noon protest infront of Chinese Consulate 12:00 to 01:00 P.M.
Si Thu will be leaving San Francisco on Wednesday Dec 19th for Seattle, Washington State

(1) Nyunt Than
Source: U Win Maung Reported

SAN FRANCISCO Tuesday 18th December 2007

2007-12-15T17:41:00.000-08:00

Agenda Planned for Tuesday
(flexible)

Breakfast at Emery ville Chinese Restaurant
Pier 38 Fisherman's Wharf, Presidio,
Alcatraz, Golden Gate,
abc7news's office , SF Gate news paper office etc. etc.
Chinese Consulate's office with Si Thu images on the BMW car
Tom Lantos 's office
SF City Hall
Nancy Pelosi's office
Lunch at Lakin's Restaurant
Dinner in Ma Jean 's
1924 Ceder Street (at Bonita), Berkeley, CA 94709

WITH GRATITUDE to:
Ma Jean/Ko Victor
Nyunt Than
Ma Soe Sa Ya
Daw's Dham Ma
U Win Maung

PRESS RELEASE - North American Campaign for Free Burma Road Trip

2007-12-14T17:34:00.001-08:00

Photo: Si Thu at Atlanta GA, 6 Dec’07

Kyaw Sithu, a Burmese political refugee forced to flee his motherland after 1988 democracy uprising, will be in Los Angeles on December 16 as part of his North America Campaign for Free Burma Road Trip. We will be welcoming and joining him in LA as we drive around in strategic places of LA to raise awareness of horrific situation in Burma. We encourage everyone to join our caravan on Sunday December 16 at LaPuente Temple at 9.30 a.m . To quote SiThu, “Free Burma is definitely possible, only when people do their part to set her free”.

The “Driving for Burma” initiative was aimed to raise awareness of humanitarian crisis and brutality going on in military-ruled Burma. His solo driving journey started out on December 1, 2007 at Toronto, Canada where he lives. His car, emblazoned with the word “Free Burma”, pictures of Burma’s elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi among others, turns many heads as he drives through major cities in the U.S as part of a 15,436 kilometre drive across America stopping off at key cities to address politicians, dignitaries, campaigners and Burmese exiles.

His first stop was at Washington D.C where he met and received encouragement from Dr. Sein Win, Prime Minister of the National Coalition Government Union of Burma (NCGUB) and he stopped to demonstrate outside the Burmese Embassy. From there, he drove west across the country to LA, making his return from LA to Canada along the Pacific coast through Vancouver and finally arriving in Toronto.

No one in the Burmese community has ever done this and SiThu finds the campaign challenging with his limited finances and yet rewarding at the same time as the driving campaign has picked up media attention on Burma’s ongoing human rights abuses. The most challenging part is he only has one month to do the whole trip which will end on January 1, 2008.

Meanwhile his internet blog, updated daily and detailing the progress of the journey is proving extremely popular with over 5131 hits (3878 International visitors) and over 200s well wishers leaving messages of support.

“This is amazing!” wrote Jason from UK “talk about drive and enthusiasm! This guy really is going the extra mile to stand up for what he believes in”, and Poeziwa said, “Following the Buddhist Monks protest in September and their subsequent brutal suppression it is vital that the international community maintains the pressure on the Military junta, who have ruled Burma since 1962 to finally embrace democracy and respect human rights.” Said Jeg for the Burma Global Action Network who are supporting the drive.

Si Thu is available for interviews along the route of the journey.

Contact:

Si Thu

drivingforburma@gmail.com

Cell: (240) 750-9571 [US]

Web blog: http://drivingforburma.blogspot.com/

(OR)

Jeg
paraussies@gmail.com [Australia]

* * PRESS RELEASE **

2007-12-14T17:29:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHAT:
North American Driving Campaign for Free Burma - LA Stop

Kyaw Sithu, a Burmese refugee forced to flee his motherland after the 1988 democracy uprising, will be in Los Angeles as part of his cross-continent solo drive called North America Campaign for Free Burma Road Trip. The cross continent “Driving for Burma” initiative was aimed at raising awareness of inhumane conditions in Burma under the military dictatorship. See below for more details. A caravan will follow him in all the stops in LA.

He will stop at the Pasadena City Hall for a Rally and stop at Mayor Bogaard's place to deliver a letter to the Mayor denouncing China’s support of Burma’s military dictators.

DATE:
Sunday, December 16, 2007

TIME:
Schedule of Road Trip

9:30 a.m.
La Puente Burma Buddhist Temple
10:00 a.m.
Caravan Parade around San Gabriel Valley
11:30 a.m.
Break for lunch, return to La Puente Temple.
1:30 p.m.
Leave for Pasadena
2:00 p.m.
Pasadena City Hall Rally for Free Burma. Press Conference.
2:45 p.m.
Caravan to Mayor Bogaard's place and deliver letter
3:00 p.m.
Caravan to Consulate of the Peoples’ Republic of China
3:30 p.m.
Arrive at the Chinese Consulate at 443 Shatto Place, Los Angeles, 90020.
Next stop: Caravan to Hollywood
4:15 p.m.
Arrive at Kodak Theatre. Next stop: Caravan to Santa Monica
5:15 p.m.
Arrive at Santa Monica Pier. Next stop: Caravan to Jasmine Restaurant.
6:00 p.m
Arrive at Jasmine Restaurant in Culver City

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Pyi (626) 607-5100 or tutpi@msn.com,
Organizer for Free Burma Drive in Los Angeles.

Si Thu is available for interviews in Los Angeles on Sunday, December 16.

A press conference will be held in front of Pasadena City Hall at 2 p.m on Sunday, 16th December 2007.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The people of Burma have been forced to live under the brutal military dictatorship since 1962. Many attempts to restore freedom and democracy have been violently crushed by the Burmese military. The latest violent crackdown by the military regime began when thousands of protesters led by monks took to the streets in September 2007 to peacefully protest rising costs of basic commodities and political reform. The world simply stood by and watched as the "Saffron Revolution" unfolded in Burma where protesters and onlookers were beaten, gunned down and hauled to prisons known for torturing and killing political prisoners. Despite the brutal military crackdown, the brave non violent struggles continues and the people of Burma need your help more than ever.

Burmese and Burmese monks have testified in front of the Pasadena City Council and the Pasaden Commission on Human Relations about China's complicity on human rights violations in Burma. On October 29, the Pasadena City Council voted against the Commission recommendations in making a strong statement about China's human rights violations. Mayor Bogaard's subsequent letter to the Sisters Cities even identified those testimonies as merely "allegations".

WITH PROFOUND GRATITUDE

2007-12-14T07:43:00.000-08:00

From the beginning of Si Thu’s adventure all along the way he has been blessed meeting extraordinary friends and supporters
special mention to:

(Note: anybody missing please contact Jeg
there will be more names added as I know them)

Spiteri & his family
Speedpro Imaging

Nick
the designer of the images on the car

Ko Myoe Graphic Designs
www.pbase.com/komyoe88

Ko Moe Thee Zuun

* Pyi

* Tutpi

* Tin Maung Htoo

* www.badasf.org Members

ABSDF Members and Comrades

ALL Burmese and Activists in:
New York, Washington DC, Atlanta,
North Carolina, Indiana, Phoenix, St Louis,
Texas, California, to this date

All the Organizers for Free Burma Drive in
Los Angeles and San Francisco

Canadian Friends of Burma Organisers

Ashin Aggadama

Ashin Candobhasacara
Burma American Metta Buddhist Association

Aung Htun

Daw Mar Mar Aye

Daw Sayama Si Si Thwe

Daw's Dham Ma

Dr. Aye Min- CBPP

Dr. Sein Win
PM of the National Coalition Government Union of Burma - NCGUB

Dr. Tun Kyaw Nyein
Concern Burmese Physicians and Professionals

Ko Aung Khant

Ko Aung Nwe Oo & Local friends

Ko Kyaw Thet

Ko Lwin Soe

Ko Maw Gyi & family

Ko Mg Myint

Ko Min Khaing

Ko Pae

Ko Soe

Ko Soe Min

Ko Soe Naing

Ko Thant Zin

Ko Thiri

Ko Victor

Ko Yin Aye
Democratic Burmese Student's Organization - Washington DC

Ma Dolly

Ma Jean

Ma Myat & family

Ma Shwe War

Ma Soe Sa Ya

Mr Lee
Chairman of League for Democracy in China

Nyunt Than

Richard (At Car wash)

Sophia Lwin

Taw Hlan Yay

Than Kyaw Hty

U Bo Hla Tint
Foreign Minister National Coalition Government Union of Burma

U Mg Myint

U Nanda Wantha

U Win Maung

Ye Lin Htun

* Special thanks from Jeg to these members
who have provided her a strong support

So Far......

2007-12-14T06:33:00.001-08:00

At Amarillo, TX

2007-12-14T06:17:00.000-08:00

from left to right: Ko Soe Min, Ahshin Aggadama, Ko Mg Myint and me

I arrived at Amarillo, TX at evening time. Most of the people came to see me and provided their support. I enjoyed a good talk with Ashin Aggadama and U Mg Myint. I noticed that the people in Amarillo are all united and helping each other as well as Taw Hlan Yay. I hope to see you guys again and Let's Fight Together for Freedom in Burma.

Infront of Amarillo's Buddhist Temple

Phoenix, AZ

2007-12-14T05:27:00.000-08:00

infront of the Buddhist Temple - Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is a new city with all new people, I mean, I saw new generation of our people that are going to fight for freedom in Burma. They are really into it. They are ready to sacrifice themselves for Burma if they need to. It is amazing to see their passion and I salute all of you. After I saw people in Phoenix, I believe that one day Burma IS free.

Sophia Lwin and I

On the way to Amarillo, TX

2007-12-12T05:32:00.001-08:00

I left Fort Wayne, IN around 8:30 am. It was raining. The rain did not stop until I reached the border of Illinois. After I passed Illinois, I could not see the front road because of dense fog. The rain stopped and after St. Louis the road was dry. I will take a rest at Kansas City. Tomorrow I will leave around the same time. 8:30 am to Amarillo, TX. The weather channel said, it is going to be sunny. :)

The night at Kansas City

So far....

2007-12-12T05:29:00.000-08:00

Interview with Ko Kyaw Thet (DID)

2007-12-10T20:02:00.001-08:00

From Democratic Information Department
(Please Credit Owner of Video if copied across your blog Thanks)

My trip plan has changed...

2007-12-10T20:02:00.000-08:00

... due to the weather. My apologies I can not visit Chicago and Denver this time. I will be leaving Fort Wayne IN to Amarillo TX on Dec 11th. I will stop for a rest at Kansas City. I hope the weather is on my site. The weather channel said there is going to be freezing rain tomorrow (Dec 11).

Interview with Mr Lee

2007-12-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

Chairman of League for Democracy in China.
I met him in New York he was delighted to express his views.
(Please credit the owner of the video if copying across your blog Thanks.)

Feed back and inputs

2007-12-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

I would like your valuable suggestions for my campaign.

What type of interviews would you like to see?
Who should I interview? ..etc.

Thank you all for your support.

Si Thu and team

Interview with Ko Yin Aye

2007-12-10T04:47:00.000-08:00

From Democratic Burmese Student's Organization in Washington D.C.
(Please credit the owner of the video if copying across your blog, thanks)

I am in the Fort Wayne, IN

2007-12-09T17:20:00.000-08:00

I arrived at Fort Wayne IN around noon. They prepared a car rally unfortunately, the weather did not permit it. In Fort Wayne was freezing cold and it was raining. Driving conditions were really bad. My car is froze. They took me to the local Buddhist temple, later Daw Mar Mar Aye invite me to her house. I will be leaving Fort Wayne Dec 11.

Interview with Ashin Candobhasacara

2007-12-09T15:59:00.000-08:00

Ashin Candobhasacara is member of
Burma American Metta Buddhist Association.

Interview with Thant Zin, Shwe War and Aung Khant

2007-12-09T15:24:00.000-08:00

Members of the International Campaign for Burma.
They organized the New York Car Rally for the
International Burmese Monks Association.

from left to right: Ma Shwe War, Ko Aung Khant and Ko Thant Zin

So Far........

2007-12-09T15:19:00.001-08:00

Interview with U Bo Hla-Tint

2007-12-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

This is an interview with U Bo Hla Tint, Foreign Minister
(National Coalition Government Union of Burma)
in Washington D.C.

Interview with Dr. Tun Kyaw Nyein

2007-12-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

From Concerned Burmese Physicians and Professionals

He is the son of late U Kyaw Nyein (former Deputy Prime Minister). Active in Burma’s pro-democracy movements since 1974 U Thant Uprising;

Imprisoned along with his younger brother Bo Bo Kyaw Nyein from 1974-79
Studied at the Institute of Medicine (I) Rangoon
Earned M.B., B.S. (Rangoon)
MS (Western Illinois University) and
Ph.D. in Health Education (University of Tennessee)
Former Professor and Currently Administrator with the North Carolina Central University
Also spoke person for
"Concerned Burmese Physicians and Professionals"
www.cmpp-burma.blogspot.com

Dr. Tun Kyaw Nyein resides in Chapel Hills, N.C.

http://www.youtube.com/profile_videos?user=wefightwewin&p=r

I will be interviewing people I meet on my trip and post the videos on my blog as soon as they are available.

Dec 8, Washington D.C and New York city

2007-12-08T18:03:00.000-08:00

I woke up early in the morning to go to the Buddhist Temple in Washington DC for the service of Ko Htay Kywae's mother 'A Hluu'.

I'd like to thank all people from DC for their warmly welcome and all the support they provided me whilst in DC.

I left around 8:00 am to New York city. I arrived in Queens, New York at around noon.
Thank Ko Thant Zin and all the people from New York for their warm welcome and yes, we had a good time with the car rally, lots of fun indeed.

After the rally Ko Min Htet invited me to Thai food. Many thanks to everybody. I had some interviews but I can't upload it. Right now, I am at the rest area somewhere in Pennsylvania. I will upload it on tomorrow night.

Again, Thank you ALL from Washington DC and New York.

in front of Buddhist Temple
Washington DC

Before the car rally
New York

So Far.....

2007-12-07T10:50:00.000-08:00

Interview with Thiri Nyunt (Burmese)

2007-12-06T20:39:00.000-08:00

I left Atlanta, GA at night to Nashville TN.

I sleep at Ko Thiri (former ABSDF joint-general secretary and former commander of regiment 102) house.

I (Si Thu) served with Ko Thiri in regiment 102 for few years.

Thank you Ko Thiri, we had a great talk.

Ko Thiri Nyunt interview

ENGLISH TRANSLATION

Ko Thiri Interview translation into English

2007-12-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

Translation Courtesy of Pan Bay Dah

Ko Si Thu:
Ko Thiri, What is your view about the current Political Situation In Burma?

Ko Thiri Nyunt:

I don't want to say big things about politics. The Monks lead the Saffron Revolution in September 2007, the student uprising in 1974, in 1988 etc. Those revolutions happened because ordinary people were unable to stand the unfairness and suppression anymore and on their own free-will, on their own desire and initiative they own the responsibilities to uprise against the country bad system and bad policies.

Burmeses are the most patient and forgiven people on earth. If the government would provide a certain level of goodness to the country, Burmeses will not bother about the politics.

Now what happen last September was due because of too much unfairness and suppression. They (Burmeses) on their own free-will stood up against the junta by themselves. These uprisings happened by themselves, it was not because of external influences.

As long as there is no freedom, no democracy, no justice in Burma, this kind of uprising against the military junta will continue to happen for sure and Burmeses will stand up by themselves on their own free-will. As long as suppression and unfairness exist, the uprising will happen again and again by itself. (No need to wait for any encouragement from the international community)

Ko Si Thu:

What should we do and how do we fight in the Future to get Freedom in Burma?

Ko Thiri Nyunt:

I don't want to say anything about what we should do on this interview because the enemy (junta) will get time to prepare to counteract against these actions. I don't want to tell what we have to do, the activists already know what to do.

But my OWN personal view and my own belief, in 1988 we were suppressed and the junta drove (forced) us on this road of armed struggle. I myself participated in armed struggle against the junta for 5 years along the border and our comrades still continue with the armed struggle there.

A weapon without ammunition is not even as useful as the stick. Armed struggling without support will be difficult to succeed. Armed struggling need weapons, ammunition, medicines, supply etc. . Last time those leftist revolutions were successful it was because they got full support from Russia and China.

Since we (pro-democrats) don't have this kind of support from anywhere at this moment, we are not able to move forward yet. But I don't mean we will never win, we just can't be able to move forward at this very moment.

I believe, one day, if we get this kind of support, we will win. I am one of the persons who really hate war, there are only bad and evil things on the battlefield.

But since the junta government don't want to walk the Peace Road and don't want to settle in a peaceful way, we have no other option, we have to fight, to get the Freedom in Burma, this is my own personal belief.

Ko Si Thu:

What do you want to say to the People in Burma?

Ko Thiri Nyunt:

I want to tell to the people who are not only inside Burma, I want to tell to the Burmese people who are outside Burma, I want to tell to every Burmese person that it is the responsibility of everyone. Everyone is responsible and accountable. I am also responsible and you (Ko Si Thu) are also responsible, that is, if we love our country.

If there are lots of people who just want to look for themselves or they are just only interested in looking after their families' well-being, happy to sit down, do nothing and just watch what other people are doing then, our country will never change.

But if there are a lot of people who understand their responsibilities and are accountable for the good cause of our country then, we will win one day and our country will develop and become a better place to live.

I don't want to say it is the responsibility of the people from inside or the people from outside. It is the responsibility of everyone who love Burma and all of us are responsible for changing all the bad things into good things. That's all I want to say. Thank you.

Disclaimer

I translated the interview as best as possible to the original conversation with my best intention. Ko Si Thu, Thank you very much to allow me to post my translation of your interview with Ko Thiri Nyunt. Bay Dah)

Interview with Ma Dolly

2007-12-06T07:51:00.000-08:00

This is interview with Ma Dolly, Atlanta, GA.

Atlanta, GA - 5th Dec'07

2007-12-06T07:13:00.000-08:00

I left Chapel Hill at night time and driving to Hight Point, NC to U Nanda Wantha Monastery.
I slept there for the night.

U Nanda and I

In the morning some people from Hight Point came to see me and provide their support.
Thanks for U Nanda and all the friends from ABSDF old commarate.
We discussed and talked about what we should do in the future.
Later I left to Atlanta, GA around 9:30 am.
from the left: Ye Lin Htun, me, Ko Lwin Soe, Than Kyaw Hty and Aung Htun

I arrived Atlanta around 4:30 pm. The highway was full with traffic. I drove around the downtown area because there was no place to park. Around 7:00 pm, I parked my car in front of the CNN building. At the same time the hockey game was finishing and I got a lots of onlookers ' attention. Then, Ma Dolly from Atlanta and Ma Myat family invited me to their house.

Thank you all from Atlanta.
Thank you for your hospitality.

CNN center, Atlanta, GA

Atlanta -Georgia 5th Dec'07

2007-12-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

I will be positing interview with Dr. Tun Kyaw Nyein (Chapel Hill), NC.
I am in Atlanta, Georgia now.
It takes too long to upload the video files and I need to find a good connection.
I will be interviewing people on the road and will post it soon.

Chapel Hill - North Carolina, 5th Dec'07

2007-12-04T16:50:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank friends in Chapel Hill area for their hospitality.

I met a lot of former ABSDF members. They helped me with accommodation and great home cooking.

I also met Dr. Tun Kyaw Nyein from Concern Burmese Physicians and Professionals. I will be interviewing people I meet on my trip and will post it on the blog as soon the videos are available.

I will leave for Atlanta (Georgia) tomorrow.

Photo: Ko Soe Naing (right), me and Ko Min Khaing (left)

My Trip

2007-12-03T16:15:00.001-08:00

My plan is flexible. If you live close to my route and want to organize a rally or any other activities please let me know in advance.
I will try to accomodate.

Washington DC (Day #2)

2007-12-03T16:03:00.000-08:00

Today, I met Dr. Sein Win, Prime Minister of the National Coalition Government Union of Burma (NCGUB). He gave me support and encouragement for my trip. Sayama Si Si Thwe, wife of Dr. Sein Win offered us tea leaf salad "Lapphat" and green tea.

I thank Burmese activists in DC area. They provide me nice Burmese food and a place to stay. I am more determined than ever. We must and will win this fight.

Free Burma!

( From left to right: Dr. Aye Min (CBPP), Dr. Sein Win (Prime Minister) and me)

In Washinton D.C.

2007-12-02T18:06:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone

Today, we went out to the front of the Myanmar Embassy in Washington D.C. After parking the car and taking some photos we went to Capital Hill and Washington Monument.

All my friends from D.C. are providing me with all the support that they can offer. Thank you everybody in Washinton D.C because of You, I am more confident with my campaign and I believe that my campaign will be a success and Burma is free soon.

Also, I was invited to the Myanmar restaurant. Foods are really great. I really like 'A Thot and Tea' from that restaurant.

Now my trip has changed. I will leave from D.C. Dec 4 to North Carolina. Next day Dec 5 to the Atlanta, Georgia. I will coming back up to Washinton D.C on Dec 7 and we will leave with people from D.C to New York to join the movement on Dec 8.

I would like to invite all the people to join us at this New York Cars' Campaign. I will be there.
Please let me know if you would like to participate.

Here is my contact email address.
drivingforburma@gmail.com

I will post the whole trip plan soon.

Here is the first day story

2007-12-02T04:33:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone.

Greetings from Washington D.C.

It was a really nice day yesterday. I can say that the weather was on my side. Before I reached to Queens Park, Ko Aung Nwe Oo and some friends were already there and waiting for me.

Thank You Everybody, your support is really helping me out for my trip.

At Queens Park on 1 Dec'07

I left Queens Park at noon and drove across the border at Lewiston Bridge, NY.

As soon as I drove my car into the booth. The officer was not look at me. He was just staring at my car without a word for 3 mins. He did not move, even though I handed over my citizenship card and Driver's License. A few mins later, he took my citizenship card and he asked me for the password. It took me about 15 mins and he let me go into USA. Thank you.

Pennsylvania state is really nice to drive. All the up and down hills, it looks like you are driving on the Rockey mountain, BC. Freezing rain came down before 180 miles to destination, at the top of the mountain. I was really scared because my windows froze even I had cleaned with the wipers. I had to slow down and stop at the rest area. When I arrived to D.C. it was 1:00 am.

Oh... also one side of front kidney grill in my car is gone. So, I took out another one too. If is really ugly.

Well, so far, I saw people very interested in my car. They were behind my car for a while then they overtook me and stayed at the side of my car for a while. They showed support but of course not everybody agreed.

I would be leaving D.C. on Tuesday. My next stop will be Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Get my car back and ready to start my trip

2007-11-30T14:53:00.000-08:00

Today, I go pick up my car. It looks really nice. When I came back a lot of people were watching my car. I hope I will get lots of attraction from all over North America and the campaign will be a success.

Once I get home I want to try to post the picture of the car but blogspot block my blog because they said it was spam. Anyway, I wrote and reported to them and they unlock it for me right away.

Thank you Blogger Team.

I would like to thank you Brian L. Spiteri and his family from Speedpro Imaging (where I put all the pictures in my car). Also he is helping to contact to all the media for me. He is amazing.

Again, Thank you Brian, I really appreciate it. Also I would like to thanks Nick who designed the images of my car.

Well here is my plan for tomorrow.

I will be at Queens Park, Toronto around 11:00 am. I will start my trip around noon to Washington D.C. I am welcome everybody to come and join before I leave.

Thank you and wish me luck.

Si Thu

Two days to Road Trip and counting.......

2007-11-29T14:21:00.001-08:00

I am excited about the trip. I am so worry that I can't sleep well. I don’t know what do I need for the trip. I think everything is ready. I get the citizenship card, passport, all the cloths packed, got the blanket and sleeping bag (In case). This is all I can think of now. I hope weather is stay on my side. I heard that one of my friend got accident yesterday. Her car went in to the ditch because of snow.

I am sorry that I cannot participate in New York on December 8. I cannot wait because I have only one month to do the trip. Next time, maybe.

Thank you for all the suggestion and comments. I do really need support. Also, thanks for the people who invite me to their city. I am try to visit to you guys. I can not say which way to take to the west right now. I have to discuss with my friends when I get Washington D.C.

I am going to pick up my car tomorrow. I will post the actual picture of my car tomorrow.

Again, thank you everyone.

Si Thu

Thank you for visiting to my blog.

2007-11-26T15:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Everybody

First of all, thank you for visiting my blog.

I would like to tell you about this blog and why I am doing this.
One day, I was driving to work and I saw next to me a whole bus covered in advertising pictures. I saw these buses, trucks and cars many times before, but this time, I saw people were watching and admiring the pictures. Then I got the idea that I could promote my country this way. That I could let other people be aware of what is going on in the motherland.

So, I have decided to start.

Here is sample of my decorated car project. I do not have pictures of my car yet. I just sent my car to the sticker company to label it with the pictures. As soon as my car is back, I will post a picture of what it looks like. It is going to look exactly the same as the picture above.

I will be driving this car across north America for Free Burma Campaign, which I would like to call North America Campaign for Free Burma Road Trip. I will be leaving Toronto, Canada where I live on the 1st of December 2007. My first stop will be Washington D.C. From D.C, I will go across America to Arizona. I still can't decide which way to take to Arizona. I only have one month to do the trip.

I would like to ask for your support, suggestions and comments.

Please do come back and visit everyday for the update.

Again, Thank you.