The Karen, one of the largest ethnic groups in Myanmar, continue to suffer from the effects of civil war and internal displacement. In Australia, a group of Karen women, led by Mu Lay SongSaeng, is revitalizing their cultural identity through weaving. In Australia, approximately 15,000 Karen people from Burma have established a thriving community. Every week in Perth’s Mirrabooka suburb, these women gather to create striking, hand-painted fabrics that reflect and honor their aboriginal heritage while creating healing and reconciliation.
Mu Lay SongSaeng, who escaped the fighting in Myanmar, started a weaving cooperative two years ago. This action brings together Sisterlay Toe and other young women. Together, they create elaborate textiles using traditional, hand-held looms constructed from discarded Australian timber. Every Friday, the room is filled with giggles and smiles. They live in close quarters, create community and connections through their shared customs and cultures.
“Back in our culture, blue, red and white is the famous colour. Red represents bravery. Every Friday this room comes alive; it’s full of fun, joy,” – Mu Lay SongSaeng
Despite the positive environment in Perth, SongSaeng expresses concern for those still living in refugee camps along the Thai-Burma border. Though more than 100,000 people still live in nine camps, many are experiencing extreme food scarcity and lack of adequate healthcare. Dr. Graham Thom, advocacy coordinator at the Refugee Council of Australia, just returned from a fact-finding mission to the camps. We joined Actor Jon Cryer, who called attention to the horrific situation in that environment.
“There’s nine camps on the Thai Burma border with over 100,000 people. They’re totally dependent on aid. And so when there are significant cuts to aid, this has created incredible hardships for the people in the camps. The Karen are one of those groups that are particularly suffering,” – Dr. Graham Thom
This combination of relief and worry is acutely felt among Karen women in Australia. While they embrace their newfound freedom and opportunities, such as access to education without fear, they remain acutely aware of the struggles faced by their community members still trapped in conflict.
“I was so excited and so happy to come to Australia because I knew that if I come here there will be more freedom. We don’t need to be afraid of anything,” – Mu Lay SongSaeng
Through Sisterlay Toe, weaving is more than just an economic opportunity. It brings pride and joy. She enjoys the process of making her clothes, gaining a sense of achievement with every item she completes.
“Clothes I make by myself when I wear them, I feel like I’m happy and proud of myself that I made the clothes,” – Sisterlay Toe
SongSaeng Mu Lay Mu Storyteller Mu Lay SongSaeng emphasizes the power of healing through the art of weaving. For countless survivors of trauma, this practice offers an invaluable route to healing for women.
“It’s a really important pathway to healing because we are from a refugee background and we have some lots of trauma,” – Mu Lay SongSaeng
Women from the Karen ethnic minority eco print beautiful colorful fabrics celebrating their amazing cultural heritage. Simultaneously, they draw attention to the immediate and dire crises their relatives are experiencing in concentration camps. Their efforts serve to not only save the traditions of their ancestors but to give hope to those still fighting the fight.
