Campus Groups Unite for a Night of Solidarity with Myanmar’s LGBTQ+ Youth
Last night, the campus was alive with a unique blend of emotions: a combination of anger, hope, and deep compassion emanated from the student center courtyard. Under a canopy of rainbow lights and a bold “We See You, Myanmar” banner, various campus organizations gathered for a solidarity event in support of LGBTQ+ youth in Myanmar. These young individuals face the harsh realities of living under military rule, displacement, and the constant threat of violence.
This evening was far from a typical charitable event. A diverse array of student groups, including LGBTQ+ alliances, human rights organizations, Southeast Asian cultural clubs, and faith-based justice groups, collaborated to highlight the many challenges faced by queer and transgender youth in Myanmar. From criminalization and police brutality to conflict and forced migration, these young people lack genuine safe spaces. Activists shared stories of gatherings in Myanmar being perceived as political threats. Young people risk surveillance and raids simply for organizing or celebrating Pride, mirroring the experiences documented by on-the-ground community groups, such as those in this reflection on building safe spaces in Myanmar.
Voices, Candlelight, and Calls to Action
The night commenced with a poignant candle-lighting ceremony. Students took turns reading excerpts from Myanmar LGBTQ+ activists: a drag performer spoke of losing work during the pandemic and political turmoil, a youth organizer discussed how visibility is both dangerous and vital, and a trans leader called for global support. These stories echoed those in Asia Society Philippines’ Pride series, which features regional queer voices, including Myanmar’s own drag activist Minn “Walkie Talkie” Khant Zin, highlighted in this call for LGBTQIA+ solidarity.
However, the night extended beyond listening. It was a call to action. Following the vigil, there were open mic performances, dances, and a live DJ set playing Southeast Asian queer anthems. In the intervals, organizers explained how to actively support Myanmar’s LGBTQ+ youth: by donating to trustworthy grassroots organizations, amplifying Burmese queer campaigns on social media, and urging universities to strengthen policies for refugee and international students affected by the crisis.
Student leaders also drew connections between the struggles in Myanmar and local battles, such as SOGIE equality bills and the push for gender-neutral facilities on campus. Their message was clear: though borders may separate us, our liberation is interconnected. As one speaker expressed, “If our siblings in Myanmar can organize under constant surveillance and blackouts, the least we can do here, with our Wi-Fi, platforms, and relative safety, is to show up, speak out, and maintain the pressure.”
For those who couldn’t attend Solidarity Night, don’t fret, this is merely the beginning. Campus groups are organizing teach-ins, film screenings, and a zine project focused on Southeast Asian queer resistance. Stay tuned, invite your friends, and when you attend the next event, remember to tag us, let’s ensure that Myanmar’s LGBTQ+ youth know they are not alone in their fight.
