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January 11, 2004
Dear Mr. Ambassador,
I am very concerned about the well being of your country. As you are well aware, appalling reports of oppresssion and brutality routinely emerge from within the borders of Myanmar. I do realize that reliable information is hard to come by, and I have taken the time to look over the embassy website and the responses given to such allegations. But the mere fact that information is so difficult to obtain does not reflect well on the integrity of the government. Myanmar has long been isolated from the rest of the world. If even a small percentage of the reports of brutality, rape, bloodshed, imprisonment, and forced labor are true, there is reason for the government to take responsibility and make amends. I am also very concerned about Aung San Suu Kyi. I do not see how isolating and silencing her will be of any benefit to your country.
I was, however, encouraged to hear about the roadmap to democracy, also mentioned on the embassy website. But this talk of democracy is not new. This process has supposedly been going on for years, but there is no progress to show for it. I can only hope that those in control of Myanmar will finally put into action the many changes that have been mere rhetoric in the past.
Recently, I had the privilege to visit your homeland. I chose to travel to Myanmar after carefully reading about the recent history and current situation of your country. During my short visit, I was pleased to find that the people of Myanmar are very kind and warm-hearted. But it was sad to see how over 40 years of poor governance and oppression have left the country in shambles. In Yangon, poverty is rampant, and the infrastructure continues to deteriorate. Signs filled with harsh words for anyone who opposes the government are posted around the city. I can find no reason for these signs except to maintain fear in the hearts of the people.
Furthermore, while I was in Myanmar, I mailed 10 postcards to friends back in the United States. Apparently these postcards were confiscated and never arrived at their intended destination. I do not understand why the government of Myanmar was so concerned about my mail. If my postcards are still being held, I ask that they be delivered promptly.
I realize that this simple letter may never make it off of your desk. But I beg you to consider the future of your country, and to relay my concerns to the leadership of Myanmar. In paragraph 77 of the "Memorandum on the situation of human rights in Myanmar" (posted on the embassy website), it states that "the Union of Myanmar is firmly determined to proceed with its political transition with the support and understanding of all who genuinely cherish democracy and who sincerely desire to promote human rights for all living within the borders of the Union." I am one such person ... a concerned individual, not affiliated with any organization. If there is any way in which I can help your country and people, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Respectfully,
David Wenzel
8310 Cottage Street
Vienna, VA 22180