Ma Thida: Myanmar's Struggle for Democracy

Renowned Burmese human rights activist, writer, surgeon and former prisoner of conscience Ma Thida shares her courageous personal journey of resistance.

In 1993, Ma Thida was sentenced to 20 years in prison for her support of Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy and for 'endangering public peace, having contact with illegal organisations, and distributing unlawful literature'.

Released from prison in 1999, Thida's advocacy for freedom of expression continues unabated as Chair of PEN International's Writers in Prison Committee and as a current fellow in the Writers-in-Exile Programme of PEN Germany.

In June, Ma Thida appears at The Wheeler Centre in conversation with writer, essayist and academic Michelle Aung Thin. Together, they'll discuss the current political situation in Myanmar, Thida's activism and survival of the harsh conditions of Insein Prison, and her ongoing dedication to freedom of expression.

Supported by RMIT Culture. Presented in partnership with PEN Melbourne. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to PEN International Myanmar.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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