The stories you tell in this book are important stories to share. In this book, you document the ongoing oppression of the people of Shan State at the hands of the military junta in Burma. Many of you have had family members killed by the regime, or watched family members die because of the lack of decent medical services. Many of you have also known what it is like to have your village burned and family and friends tortured. Most of you also know what hunger feels like because of the extreme poverty and deprivation your communities endure. Your stories document the injustice and inequality experienced by the people of Shan State and, in fact, so many other communities within Burma. However, equally important, you document hope. - Jody Williams
Nobel Peace Laureate
December, 2008