Spring Revolution and Beyond: The Resilience of Ethnic Women’s Voices in Myanmar
Shalini Perumal is a creative international development professional who has worked previously in Mae Sot, Thailand at Mae Tao Clinic, a charity that serves Karen and other Burmese migrants and refugees living in Thailand. She is currently a Communications Officer at ActionAid India in New Delhi. The views expressed in the article are her own and do not reflect those of the organisation.
“In the Spring Revolution, ethnic women have assumed diverse roles, demonstrating their commitment to defending freedom.”
Three years have elapsed since the Myanmar military orchestrated an illegal coup on February 1, 2021, stealing the people's rightful election. In the immediate aftermath of this betrayal, the populace swiftly organized and took to the streets in organized protests against the junta. Thousands of demonstrators rallied, fervently demanding the restoration of power to the people. Notably, 60 percent of these protestors were women, boldly asserting their role in the imminent revolution.
Ethnic women have historically played a pivotal role in driving progressive change, a trend that persists in Myanmar. Their ability to swiftly and courageously act is grounded in the relationships and trust cultivated within their communities. Despite facing discriminatory and often misogynistic barriers hindering their participation in public and political spheres in Myanmar, ethnic women continue to make strides through their involvement in protests and opposition movements.
Myanmar’s Spring Revolution has emerged as a powerful symbol of the strength of collective voices, with ethnic women playing an important role in shaping the pro-democracy movement. The Women’s League of Burma, established in 1999 as an umbrella organization comprising 13 women’s organizations committed to advancing women's status towards a peaceful and just society, highlights the explicit targeting of women human rights defenders by the military junta. These defenders encounter a plethora of human rights violations simply for advocating that their fundamental human rights be acknowledged and respected, mirroring the broader struggles faced by all human rights defenders in Burma.
In a report by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, it states that in the Spring Revolution, the indomitable spirit and resolute leadership of Burmese women, representing diverse classes and ethnicities, have profoundly shaken the foundations of the oppressive military junta. For example, during the revolution, a historic moment unfolded as, for the first time in Burma's history, women proudly unfurled their Hta-Mein (female skirt/sarong) as flags, declaring, "Our Hta-Mein! Our Flag! Our Victory!" This powerful rallying cry echoed across the nation and resonated globally, acknowledging the courage and determination of Burmese women. Women have been at the forefront of the resistance from the beginning, facing imprisonment and horrifying torture by the military junta. Despite these brutal acts, Burmese women stand firm in their commitment to end military dictatorship, liberate the masses, and establish full democracy in the country. They continue to risk their lives and futures on the frontline, fueled by an unwavering determination.
In the Spring Revolution, ethnic women have assumed diverse roles, demonstrating their commitment to defending freedom. Some have taken up arms, courageously standing on the frontlines of battles, while others contribute to various opposition movements by providing essential support in the form of food, funds, and resources. Women revolutionaries employ a range of mediums, including poetry and art, to eloquently articulate truths to those in power.
As Myanmar's pro-democracy movement persists, the contributions of ethnic women remain vital. Their collective strength has transcended ethnic boundaries, fostering a shared vision for a democratic and inclusive Myanmar challenging gender and age barriers and highlighting their leadership roles in times of crisis. The ongoing resistance exemplifies the enduring power of women's voices in shaping a nation's destiny. The resilience of women-led civil society organizations in the face of extremely challenging circumstances exemplifies their bravery. Despite significant risks, these groups and their leaders persist in providing essential humanitarian aid and relief to displaced populations. These organizations extend support to the urgent needs of internally displaced people, particularly focusing on vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and children. Additionally, women's groups actively engage in advocacy on the ground, amplifying the voices that demand an end to the brutal assaults faced by their communities.
The collaborative activities of women-led civil society ethnic organizations have had a profound impact on the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar. Their voices, intertwined with the broader chorus of dissent, have elevated the discourse, bringing attention to the diverse challenges faced by different ethnic communities. Their resilience challenges the military junta's attempts to suppress dissent and reaffirms the democratic aspirations of Myanmar's people. Amidst the turmoil sparked by the military coup in February 2021, women-led ethnic, civil society organisations have sparked hope, fostering unity, resilience, and demanding justice, such as through the remarkable contributions of organisations like Karen Women’s Organization, Shan Women's Action Network, Rohingya Women Development Network, women-led healthcare pioneers like Mae Tao Clinic, Mon Women's Organisation, and Kachin Women's Association Thailand.
Women's organizations have been instrumental in fostering unity among diverse communities. The Karen Women’s Organization (KWO), for instance, has been actively promoting peace, justice, and gender equality for decades. The KWO has been at the forefront of the struggle for ethnic and gender rights. As a part of the Karen National Union (KNU), KWO has actively participated in peace processes and advocated for the rights of Karen women. Their resilience is particularly evident in the documentation of human rights abuses, standing as a powerful example of the strength of women in the face of adversity.
Despite facing immense challenges, ethnic women have fearlessly confronted the military junta. The Shan Women's Action Network has been a vocal advocate against gender-based violence and militarization in ethnic regions. Their resilience and determination have become a source of inspiration for countless others, challenging traditional gender roles and norms. As Shan women face the dual challenges of military oppression and patriarchal norms, SWAN has become a platform for them to voice their concerns. The organization's commitment to documenting sexual violence in conflict zones has brought international attention to the plight of ethnic women.
Beyond activism, ethnic women have been at the forefront of providing essential services to communities affected by the coup. Mae Tao Clinic, founded by Dr. Cynthia Maung, a Karen refugee, stands as a refuge of healthcare for those in need. Founded on the Thai-Burma border, this healthcare institution provides essential services to refugees and migrants. Amid the ongoing unrest, the clinic has become a vital lifeline, offering not just medical support but also embodying the spirit of ethnic women's resilience in the face of adversity.
Ethnic women's organizations have played a crucial role in ensuring that the struggles of all communities, especially those facing systemic oppression, are recognized on the international stage. The Rohingya Women Development Network has been a powerful advocate for the rights of Rohingya women, highlighting the atrocities faced by this marginalized community. The Mon Women's Organisation and Kachin Women's Association Thailand have engaged in impactful political advocacy, pushing for ethnic representation and the inclusion of women in the broader political dialogue. Their efforts challenge the military junta's attempt to stifle diverse voices and perspectives.
As the Spring Revolution and pro-democracy movement continues to this day, ethnic women's voices continue to resonate, shaping the narrative of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. Their unwavering commitment, resilience, and collaborative spirit offer a glimpse of hope for a future where diversity is celebrated, and the rights of all citizens are upheld. The world watches in solidarity as these resilient women continue to stand on the front lines, defying oppression and working towards a brighter, democratic Myanmar.