Empower Human Rights in Burma: Help bring our film to light!
THE FILM
Myanmar (Burma) is one of the deadliest conflict areas in the world, yet there is little international attention paid to the ongoing brutal oppression there, and to the courageous resistance to it.
Thabyay: Creative Resistance in Myanmar follows four democracy revolutionaries who are finding creative means to fight against the military junta.
Some take up arms while struggling to stay true to their commitment to non-violence, while others engage in “artivism,” using music, poetry and art to bring about a peaceful, free, democratic and truly inclusive future for all people in Myanmar.
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THE CHARACTERS
THE ARTIST -- Susanna Hla Hla Soe
An elected minister in the shadow government, Susanna Hla Hla Soe is an artist and advocate for women and children affected by conflict.
THE POET -- Maung Saungkha
Beloved poet and renowned free speech activist, Maung Saungkha now leads the first ever Bamar ethnic army from the jungles of Myanmar.
THE MUSICIAN -- Phoe San
A renowned musician and composer, Phoe San harnesses the expressive power of music to support the revolution and heal trauma for those impacted by war.
THE ORGANIZER -- Thet Swe Win
Human rights activist Thet Swe Win organizes events for painters, poets and musicians to share the soft power of creativity in the revolution.
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WHY WE'RE ASKING
Following three years of largely self-funded production in Thailand and Burma, we secured two rounds of funding for post-production. When new opportunities arose for additional cross-border filming trips, we took the chance and were rewarded with powerful new footage.
As a result, we're short on funds.
After receiving a third grant, we have now completed the editing stage and now need to do final polishing (color, sound, captions...) and pay some outstanding bills. We're on track to premiere the film in Bangkok at the end of September (2025).
With your generous support, we'll be able to push the project over the finish line.
No amount is too small!
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WHO WE ARE
Jeanne Hallacy (director) is an activist filmmaker with decades of experience in the struggle for human rights in Burma.
Gregg Butensky (producer) is a human rights investigator and long time activist on Burma issues.
KIRANA PRODUCTIONS empowers human rights advocacy and support through documentary filmmaking and workshops. We collaborate with local NGOs to spotlight human rights issues with a focus on Burma.
Co-organizers2
Gregg Butensky
Organizer
San Francisco, CA
Jeanne Marie Hallacy
Co-organizer