The Very first Karens’ New Year Day Broadcasting Speech

 

This is An Historic Day. It is our first officially recognized National Day. It is a day of opportunity. We are emerging from isolation into the stream of national affairs. Our conviction is that our two million Karens have a significant part to play in Burma’s destiny.

 

We owe our existence as a people not to organization or any political arrangements, but to certain distinctive qualities that have been given us. Our traits include simplicity, a love of music, honesty, steadiness and a sense of God. We believe that we can best keep and develop these characteristics in free association with other people.

 

We are at a crisis. For us the choice lies between seeking protection through isolation or adventure active participation in the life of Burma. United ourselves, we could help to make, Burma a Nation. We are recognized that as leaders we must be full committed to our country free from fear, personal ambition racial and religious prejudice.

 

Today we recall our heritage, our ancient poet and prophets and our tradition of Ywa (God). We believe every individual, every home, every village has a place in the new advance. Progressive in thinking, constructive in planning and courageous in living, we can share responsibility with other communities for the making of Burma a united people.

 

Are we ready to this Karens’ New Year Day to put the best traditions of our people at the service of this whole country?

 

 

San C. Po, Shwe Ba, Hla Pe,

                                                                                                Sd/-

                                                                                       Pe Tha, Sydney Loo Nee.

 

 

 

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