One dream one nightmare: Combined Tibetan, Burmese, Zimbabwean Protest against China

From The Zimbabwe Vigil

Dear Supporters,

08/08/08 is the start of the Olympic Garmes in Beijing. Amnesty International has expressed alarm at the abuse of human rights in China. The Zimbabwe Vigil has been in contact with Tibetan and Burmese human rights groups and we plan to hold a combined protest opposite the Chinese Embassy in London on Friday 8th August. Our common link is that all three countries are victims of China’s use of its veto in the UN Security Council to protect human rights abusers. We are also in contact with a Sudanese group and are hoping they will join us. Below is information about our plans so far. With 3 or 4 oppressed nations working together, we have the potential to put across a really strong message.

PLEASE COME AND SUPPORT US – THE COMBINED PROTEST SHOULD ATTRACT LOTS OF MEDIA ATTENTION.

Victims of Chinese Human Rights Abuses Speak Out

Tibetan, Burmese and Zimbabwean exiles are to protest outside the Chinese Embassy in London on Friday 8th August when the Olympic Games begin. The three countries are victims of China’s use of its veto in the UN Security Council to protect human rights abusers.

Programme – from 11.30

· Welcome from Tibetan, Burmese and Zimbabwean representatives

· People representing the 216 Tibetans killed through demonstrating since March will front the demonstration opposite the Embassy.

· They will be supported by representatives from Burmese groups who mark the 20th anniversary of the Burmese military junta coming to power after gunning down more than 3,000 demonstrators in the 8/8/88 uprising.

· Exiled Zimbabweans will be represented in protest at China’s support for the Mugabe regime.

· One minute silence followed by prayers by Tibetan Buddhist monk, Burmese Buddhist monk, Christian minister

· 12.08 Formal raising of the Tibetan flag accompanied by the Tibetan national anthem and drum beat. This will coincide with the opening of the Olympic Games.

· Singing of Tibet freedom song, Burmese and Zimbabwean national anthems.

Photo Opportunities

· Tibetans representing demonstrators murdered by the Chinese.

· Black coffin on display

· Wreaths / flowers to be laid outside Chinese Embassy.

· People impersonating Senior General Than Shwe of Burma and Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe will be seen kneeling before someone representing China.

· 12.08 Formal raising of the Tibetan flag

We will start assembling at 10 am and the programme for the media will be from 11.30 – 12.30.

Special request

· Please wear black in mourning for the heroes who lost their lives in the freedom struggle

· Please bring flowers

Venue: Outside RIBA, 66 Portland Place, London W1B 6AD (opposite Chinese Embassy)

Map link: http://www.architecture.com/Files/RIBAHoldings/Premises/66PortlandPlaceMap.pdf

Underground: Regents Park, Great Portland Street.

Contacts: Philippa Carrick, Tibet Society 020 7272 1414

Myo Thein, Burma Democratic Concern, 020 8493 9137, 07877 882 386