Due to the fact that freedom, democracy and basic human rights in Burma remain non-existent, the Democratic Forces in the United States have launched a Long Freedom March and Hunger Strike campaign in an effort to encourage the United Nations and leaders from around the world to take effective action on Burma’s issues. 

The Long Freedom March began at the Peace Pagoda in Grafton, Albany on 1^st September 2004, and will conclude at the United Nations in New York City.  The opening ceremony was conducted by Japanese-born peace activist Venerable Jun Yasuda and attended by a number of Buddhist monks and activists from Burma.  The ceremony commenced at 8:08 AM to remember innocent freedom and democracy supporters who died on the streets of Burma on 8 August 1988. 

To mark the successful completion of the Freedom Long March and the beginning of the Hunger Strike campaign, a ceremony is scheduled to take place on 21^st  September 2004, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, in front of the United Nations (at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza on the corner of 47^th Street and 1^st Avenue).

The Hunger Strike activists welcome the support of all of the people of the world in the effort to bring democracy, freedom, and human rights to Burma.  To support and show solidarity with the Hunger Strike activists, supporters are encouraged to hold similar events in front of United Nations offices in their respective countries.