THE ROHINGYA GENOCIDE, A PANEL DISCUSSION
May 21, 2019
On Tuesday, May 21, a diverse crowd including many from the Buddhist and Muslim communities as well as Numerous Human Rights Organizations gathered at the at Union Theological Seminary to gain a deeper understanding of the current plight of the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar (Burma) and delve into the history of the atrocities being committed there. The event was created by The Buddhist Action Coalition and co-sponsored by The Buddhist Council of New York and Union Theological’s Thích Nhất Hạnh Program for Engaged Buddhism. The Buddhist magazine Lion’s Roar wrote up an article on the topic that included a bit about the event:
Organized and moderated by Buddhist Action Coalition members Eric Manigian and Chad DeChant, “The Rohingya Genocide: A Panel Discussion” featured distinguished speakers including Dr. Azeem Ibrahim, scholar and author of The Rohingyas: Inside Myanmar's Hidden Genocide, Ms. Khin Mai Aung, Cilvil Right Attorney and U.S. Coordinator of the Free Rohingya Coalition, Brother Adem Carroll, NY/UN Program Director of Burma Task Force, Ms. Ashley Aya Aye Dun, writer and activist, and Mr. Mohiuddin Mohamad-Yusof, President of the World Rohingya Organization and a survivor of the violence. Attendees gained an in depth knowledge of the history and development of the Genocide, the resulting mass exodus and current crisis conditions in the refugee camps. In recognition of Ramadan, an Iftar meal was shared at sunset.
The Buddhist Action Coalition would like to thank all those who came out that evening to deepen their understanding of this important issue. Please stay tuned for further updates and helpful links as we follow through with the Panel to find out what our community can do to help ease the suffering of the Rohingya people.
Some organizations to support:
Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Boarders)
Free Rohingya Coalition
Burma Task Force
World Rohingya Organization
Restless Beings
IRAP International Refugee Assistance Project
BRAC Humanitarian Crisis Management
Photo credits: Amy Elizabeth Photography
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