Burmese anniversary commemorated in Perth.

On Sunday 8 August 2010, members of the Burmese community in Perth held a commemoration of the democratic uprising that took place in Burma exactly 22 years before.

On the 8/8/88, the entire country rose up against the corrupt and brutal regime of General Ne Win, in power since a military coup in 1962. The uprising all but liberated Burma until September 18 when the military was able to restore control through a bloody crackdown on dissent.

Speakers at the commemoration called for a restoration of democracy in Burma, including liberation for pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, and for stronger action from the Australian government.

A solidarity dinner was also held the night on August 7.

[Photo by Alex Bainbridge.]