Myanmar has been a recurring scene of repression and resistance, but the current struggle against the military coup might be even more organized and courageous than ever before, given the deadly wave of repression activists in the streets have faced.
In the spirit of solidarity and support with those risking their lives for democracy, the Metta Center for Nonviolence offers this free download of Michael Nagler’s “Steps of Nonviolence” — translated into Burmese a decade ago.
The manual is the predecessor to Michael Nagler’s 2014 book “The Nonviolence Handbook” and contains basics about nonviolence, which Gandhi rightly called “the most powerful force” we have been endowed with. We sincerely hope activists in Myanmar — or anywhere — can use it.
We provide educational resources on the safe and effective use of nonviolence, with the recognition that it’s not about putting the right person in power but awakening the right kind of power in people. We advance a higher image of humankind while empowering people to explore the question: How does nonviolence work, and how can I actively contribute to a happier, more peaceful society?
Waging Nonviolence partners with other organizations and publishes their work.
Dear Good Folks,
We have a dear friend in Burma who lived with us for two years while he attended Berkshire Community College in Pittsfied, MA. He went on to receive a Doctorate and was active in the banking system in Burma after that. He was imprisoned in early February and we have yet to hear from him. We only heard that fact from his wife when he was first imprisoned and get no more e-mails from her. I can send you a Washington Post article about him if you like.
We have an American friend with Burmese contacts and she would be glad to send your non-violent translations to other folks in Burma. Can you please forward to me the information to make that possible. ( I speak no Burmese.)
Note: I did use an earlier book by Michael Nagler in my Alternatives to Violence classes at Berkshire Community College and am well aware of the excellence of his work.
Thanks for your cooperation.
Peace,
Don Lathrop