The Yangon People’s Strike has urged people across Myanmar and the world to take part in a global umbrella strike movement to mark the 37th anniversary of the “8888” pro-democracy uprising on 8 August.
The 8888 Uprising, which erupted on 8 August 1988, saw thousands of people rise up against the
military-backed one-party dictatorship of General Ne Win. It remains one of the most significant movements in Myanmar’s long struggle against military rule.
In honour of all generations who have fought back against military dictatorship - from the 1988 uprising to the 2021 anti-coup resistance - the Yangon People’s Strike is encouraging widespread participation in the commemorative strike, symbolized by umbrellas printed with the number “8”.
Since 26 July, “8888” umbrellas have been made available internationally through Strike Market platforms in various countries.
“The main goal is to ensure that on the 37th anniversary of 8888, anti-dictatorship movements resound globally. The ‘8’ symbol is like our vanguard flag. Under this unified symbol, we want to see worldwide protests, marches, and powerful participation,” said a Yangon People’s Strike representative.
Those inside Myanmar are also encouraged to join the movement by drawing the number “8” on umbrellas or clothing and engaging in any activity linked to the 8888 symbol.
“The will and participation of the people are the main force behind revolutionary success. I urge everyone to join this global 8888 movement. Are our people united?” said the representative.
Planned activities include carrying 8888 umbrellas, staging symbolic protests, marching to significant locations, and chanting slogans such as “Revolutionary Generation, Resist and Break Free” and “The Unfinished 8888, Let’s Struggle Together for People’s Liberation.”
The global 8888 umbrella strike movement was first organized by the Yangon People’s Strike on 8 August 2022, marking the 34th anniversary. At the time, protests were held at four crowded locations in Yangon. A photographer and a young participant were arrested and sentenced to three years in prison, though both have since been released.
