Creative Resistance: Storytelling & Solidarity in Burma

Creative Resistance is a multimedia presentation and discussion exploring how artists, musicians, storytellers and communities in Burma have used creativity as a form of resistance, resilience and solidarity since the 2021 military coup. Since 2021, creative expression has become deeply intertwined with Burma’s political struggle. Art, music, humour, storytelling and community initiatives have provided ways to document experiences of military rule, challenge authoritarian narratives, preserve memory, sustain connections and imagine different futures. Through a multimedia presentation, Joah McGee will draw on material and experiences from his work with the Insight Myanmar Podcast to explore different forms of creative resistance that have emerged during this period. The presentation will consider not only what is being created, but how stories about Burma are documented, communicated and received across communities in Burma, the diaspora and international audiences. The presentation will be followed by an audience discussion on creativity, resistance and the ethics of storytelling and representation, including the possibilities and limitations of storytelling as a form of political and community action. Joah McGee is the founder and host of the Insight Myanmar Podcast, which began in 2019 and broadened its focus following the 2021 coup to encompass Burma’s contemporary political, social and cultural landscape. He is also the founder of Better Burma. This event is for members of the Myanmar community, students, researchers, artists, advocates, media and anyone interested in Burma, creative practice, political resistance and the role of storytelling under authoritarian rule. Burmese light refreshments will be served.