burma
I'm trying hard to wrap my mind around the thought of protesting one second and being shot the next.
This story tells of a photo-journalist who continued to take pictures after he was gunned down. He died. Years ago, we never would have known of the violence, suffering and cruelties perpetrated against a peaceful populace. Because of brave (or foolhardy) photojournalists and even braver protestors, we know.
"Please use your liberty to promote ours" - Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
Even if you feel it foolish or useless, ignore those feelings and sign a petition, download a flyer, or write a letter to the editor of your local paper about this issue. We're all human and we're all member (willing or otherwise) of this planet Earth. Every time we speak up for our distant neighbors, we stand up for what is good and wonderful about humans. Every time we stay silent, we send a message too about humans.
What's been going on in Burma is one of many travesties, many injustices humans inflict upon other humans. It may never end, but I've always felt it better to try than to let cruelty walk on by unchecked.
Burma's just an example, of course. There are things you can do at the local level. I just bring this up because the photos moved me to do so.
U.S. Campaign for Burma