Sedona News – Kim Aris, son of the Burmese democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi, will speak on his mother’s plight and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar (Burma) on April 10 from 4 p.m. till 5:30 in the Community Library Sedona, 3250 White Bear Road.
Born in 1977 in the United Kingdom, Aris is the son of Daw Suu (Auntie or Madam Suu) and her late husband, the British historian Dr. Michael Aris. Due to his mother’s involvement in the struggle for democracy in Myanmar, Kim and his brother Alexander spent much of their lives apart from her.
When Daw Suu was awarded the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in Burma, 18 year old Alexander and 14 year old Kim accepted the prize on her behalf, as she was under house arrest and unable to leave the country. Through repeated arrests and controversies, she remains the leading champion of democracy in Burma. After the latest military coup, she was again imprisoned and is being held incommunicado and reportedly is in ill health. While largely ignored by the outside world, political repression and civil unrest are spreading in Myanmar with severe economic and humanitarian consequences.
Though he has largely maintained a private life, Kim now actively speaks out in support of his mother and the Burmese people, particularly following the 2021 military coup. He is also involved in humanitarian efforts, including initiatives to provide clean water for displaced communities in Myanmar.
He will address these issues in a community gathering sponsored by Sedona Great Decisions Group. Established in 1985, Sedona Great Decisions is the local chapter of the Foreign Policy Association. Its nonpartisan educational programs deal with U.S. foreign policy and related domestic issues of current concern to the American people.
This program is free to the public, but registration is required. To reserve a seat, please contact Group Leader Charles Blum at chblum45@yahoo.com or 301-717-4210.