UK Christian charity invites you to March for Myanmar

#marchformyanmar

The peace-building charity, Cord, is launching 3 weeks of action to support the people of Myanmar. For the rest of March, people are invited to pray, post photos on social media, write to their MP and donate to a fundraising appeal.

Cord’s Patron, The Right Reverend Dr Christopher Cocksworth, Bishop of Coventry said:

“Myanmar and its people have been on my heart for many years and especially now as they stand on the precipice of disaster. I pray for peace, for restraint, that the situation won’t spiral into violence and chaos. I invite you to join me in praying for Myanmar and its people. Taking part in March for Myanmar is one way we can add our voices to those calling for a lasting solution.”

The Military Coup on February 1 saw Myanmar’s democratically elected government arrested and detained. Millions have taken to the streets to peacefully protest only to be met with flash bang grenades, smoke bombs, water cannons, rubber bullets and live ammunition. To date over 80 innocent people have been killed and over 1,500 arrested. But the people won’t be silenced. Many have said that they would sooner die than return to the dark days of military rule.

Nick Thorley, Cord’s Fundraising Manager said:

“We’re encouraging people to take some really simple actions that will send a powerful message to our sisters and brothers in Myanmar. We want them to know that we are thinking and praying for them, that we stand with them and that we don’t accept what has happened.”

People are encouraged to post photos of themselves on social media wearing red or red ribbons – the colour worn by protesters in Myanmar. They can tag Cord and use the hashtag #marchformyanmar.

It is hoped that constituents will write to their MPs to express their concern. Cord says that the UK Government can play their part by introducing an arms embargo, targeted sanctions and banning trade with military-linked businesses.

Donations can also be made to Cord’s Myanmar appeal which will raise vital funds for their ongoing peace-building work.

Cord’s Chief Executive Andy Pask said:

“We’ve been working in Myanmar for a decade and in that period there have

been huge steps forward. This is a time to redouble our efforts on behalf of the people of Myanmar, not a time to step backwards.”

People wishing to participate in March for Myanmar can find all the information by visiting cord.org.uk/marchformyanmar, following Cord on Facebook and using the hashtag #marchformyanmar.

Andy Pask, Cord’s CEO, is available for interview.

Nick Thorley, Cord’s Fundraising Manager is available for interview.

To arrange interviews or for more information contact Nick Thorley: [email protected] or 07482 236 792

Cord works to make peace a reality in places where people don’t have the freedom to exercise their rights. We currently operate in Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Burundi.

Cord is working to make peace a reality in communities through the power of peaceful relationships. Peaceful relationships are key for communities and societies to flourish. That is why Cord nurtures their development when tackling the issues that lead to violence such as poverty, denial of rights or cultural division. By drawing together different groups it is possible to find common ground and build lasting bonds.

Cord Global is a Registered Charity in England and Wales (Number 1070684) and a Company Limited by Guarantee in England and Wales (Number 03566119)