Aung San Suu Kyi receives Trumpet of Conscience Award

http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200901191231.htm

Washington (PTI): Burmese democratic icon Aung San Suu Kyi has been presented with the prestigious Trumpet of Conscience Award for leading the people of her country in the fight against the military junta.

The annual award is given by Realizing the Dream, a non-profit organization set up by Martin Luther King III in honour of his father great Martin Luther King Jr. The award is given on the occasion of birth anniversary of the great American leader. Monday happens to be his 80th birthday.

At a glittering function held last evening, a few blocks away from the US capitol, the award was presented by Queen Noor of Jordan to Aung Ding, executive director of US Campaign for Burma, on behalf of Aung San Suu Kyi.

"Daw Aung San Suu Kyi epitomizes the ideals of this award," Queen Noor said in her speech. "She is a freedom fighter and passionate advocate for the use of non-violent action against repression and military force," she said.

"A dedicated practicnor of Buddhism, a dedicated student of Gandhian principles and a follower of King's teachings, Aung San Suu Kyi has led her followers in Burma to engage the repressor with calm, passion and collective conviction," Queen Noor said.

In his speech, Aung Din hoped that President-elect Barack Obama will uphold existing economic sanctions and lead a strong diplomatic effort to organize international community to put collective pressure on Myanmar's military regime.

Among other awardees at the yesterday function were Rev Claude William Black Jr (Testament of Hope), Rep. John Lewis (Drum Major) and Senator Edward M Kennedy (Realizing the Dream). Last year, former US President Bill Clinton had received Realizing the Dream Award.