I received this email from Amnesty International this morning, which should inspire all of us who take a free press for granted to take action. It doesn't need any further explanation:
Burma is preparing for its first elections in two decades. By heavily censoring the media, the ruling military junta attempts to isolate the population from independent opinions. But you can help us beat the blackout.
We know some inspiring people determined to break through the wall of censorship. They are making sure the Burmese people receive more than state propaganda. And you can help them – with just £12.50.Organisations like the Democratic Voice of Burma, an independent radio station based in Oslo and staffed by exiled Burmese dissidents, broadcast directly into Burma. Radios are not banned and they are one of the most effective ways to reach the Burmese people.
But many of Burma's 50 million people live in remote areas and don’t currently have access to a radio. We want to change that – and we need you to help us do it. Buy a radio now
Radio can act as a powerful tool in bringing about social change. Through access to independent media, people who live in the most remote areas of the country can learn about the election and their rights.
We've been working with local organisations on the ground and together we've planned a distribution for the middle of July. To reach far enough to make a difference, we need to buy 4,000 radios by the end of this month.
This Saturday is Aung San Suu Kyi's 65th birthday. Please honour it by giving a radio to Burma. A single radio could help a whole community learn about their rights and show them the international support and solidarity that the regime works so hard to silence. Please donate just £12.50 to buy and distribute a radio today. Buy a radio now
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