A Little Burma in Fort Wayne

Nevertheless, she also recognizes the frustrations suffered by resettled refugees, noting that cases of drunkenness and driving under the influence of alcohol are o­n the increase within the Burmese community. “But this is something which we cannot say is a new development for an immigrant community,” she adds.

Though the majority of these immigrants have to work hard to make ends meet and have little time for leisure activities, they try their best to retain the cultural values of their homeland. May Myat Mon, for instance, always makes sure to take her children to the Buddhist monastery, where she goes regularly to donate food.

“I bring my son and daughter here so that they know what our culture is and are aware of our religious rituals,” she says.

Yet her son, Kyaw Myat Lin, a second grade student, has adopted the Western name John, much to his mother’s disappointment. “I try my best, but these are side affects of living in this country,” she says.  

The Burmese monks of Fort Wayne do their best to help the Burmese community preserve their cultural identity and perform religious functions. They also conduct a weekly Burmese language class for the children.

Sadly, they report that the second generation of Burmese in Fort Wayne do not seem very interested in their Burmese heritage, a fairly common phenomenon within immigrant communities. Most of them do not speak Burmese and prefer—like Kyaw Myat Lin—to be called by American names.

Yet, there is o­ne aspect of Burma that none of these new Americans can escape: Burmese politics. Though their voices are rarely heard outside Fort Wayne, hardly a month goes by without a protest demonstration against the Burmese military junta, demanding the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and calling for the restoration of democracy.

The location where demonstrations are regularly held has even acquired a name and a place o­n the city map—“Burmese Point.”

Fear of the military junta still lingers within this community, even though its members are so far from Burma and safely ensconced in their new home. Outsiders who try to mingle with them are at first regarded suspiciously. Penetration of the community by spies and agents of the Burmese regime is a constant fear.

“You never know,” said o­ne prominent Burmese resident of Fort Wayne. “They are very strong. This is why they have survived so long.” Then he added a request for anonymity—even in the US caution is second nature to a Burmese critic of his government.