Imprisoned Monk Honored

U Gambira, a 29-year-old Theravada monk from Myanmar (Burma), was a leader of the All-Burma Monks’ Alliance that spearheaded nationwide protests in Myanmar last September. Now the influential website Burma Digest has named U Gambria Burma's 2007 Person of the Year.

U Gambira became involved in pro-democracy protests after troops attacked monks and civilians in a peaceful rally in Pakokku. He and his fellow monks brought the world's attention to the oppressive situation in Myanmar. Today, U Gambira is imprisoned by the government of Myanmar. It is expected he will be charged with treason and given a life sentence.

Although the Saffron Revolution has faded from the news, the All-Burmese Monks' Alliance is still active. To keep track of new developments, see The Buddhist Channel, the U.S. Campaign for Burma, and the website Don't Forget Burma.