518 International Solidarity

The May 18 Memorial Foundation celebrates the news on the release of Ms. Irom Sharmila from police custody. Ms. Sharmila is a co-winner to the 2007 Gwangju Prize for Human Rights.
The Gwangju Prize for Human Rights Committee awarded Ms. Chanu as recognition and honor for her indefatigable efforts to improve human rights in India and the noble cause of social justice. Her example is an inspiration to the many people throughout the world who are striving to attain human rights, democracy and peace.

Ms. Irom Chanu Sharmila has been fasting since November 2000 demanding for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958. This act, for the last 50 years gives sweeping powers to the military that includes shooting or killing innocent civilians on mere suspicion with complete impunity. To date, not a single armed forces personnel has been indicted under the civilian law despite proven cases of human rights violations and abuse of their powers. And in 2004, no less than the Chief Minister of Manipur had admitted that over 20,000 people had been killed since 1972.

The May 18 Memorial Foundation supports the call of Ms. Irom Chanu Sharmila to have this draconian law repealed. The foundation established by the citizens of Gwangju in order to commemorate and preserve the spirit of the May 18 Gwangju Democratic Uprising, believes in the right of the people to have their human rights respected, for the rule of law and ideals of democracy to prevail and an end to all authoritarian and militaristic rule so that peace may reign.

The May 18 Memorial Foundation a non-profit organization established on August 30, 1994. The Foundation aims to commemorate and continue the spirit of struggle and solidarity of the May 18 Uprising, contribute to the peaceful reunification of Korea, and work towards peace and human rights throughout the world. Since its establishment, the Foundation has carried out numerous projects in varying fields, including organizing memorial events, establishing scholarships, fostering research, disseminating public information, publishing relevant materials, dispensing charity and welfare benefits, building international solidarity, and awarding the Gwangju Prize for Human Rights.

Long Live Ms. Irom Sharmila!