Lwin was a month away from receiving a degree in history. Now both women cling to many of their customs as a way to stay connected to Burma. For example, Burmese women do not change their names when they marry. And though weather can be frigid here, both women wear traditional dress during Burmese holidays. Both women want to return home.
Free time is spent working on ways to help pro-democracy efforts in Burma.
He and several other Burmese recently formed the Action Forum of Burmese Pro-Democracy Activists. Like other Burmese, Soe is polite and quick to show appreciation for his Fort Wayne hosts. Burmese are so lucky to be here. In their spare time, many take trips to New York City and other places to demonstrate against Burmese military rule, or to lobby U.S. elected officials for more sanctions against Burma. Several U.S. cities have passed resolutions calling for tougher sanctions against Burma.