Naw K'Neh Mei

Ko Per

Our traditional scarf is called Ko Per. In the winter we wear it around our necks to stay warm and in the summer we wear it on our heads to stay cool.

Migration

I came here to say goodbye to my friend. He is waiting at the International Organization of Migration (IOM) office for a medical check. Afterwards he will resettle in America.

Carrying Sand

These children are carrying sand to help their families build latrines.

The walls of our houses are built with bamboo. When the bamboo is green we cut and dry it. If there are a lot of bugs we soak the bamboo for a few days until it has a strong smell. Then we weave it into a wall.

Water Tank

This is where some of our water is stored.

Flower

These beautiful flowers grow around our school.

Wedding

She was so excited on her special day.

Food on Head

This woman is selling fried chicken, meatballs and other snacks.

Survival

We depend on aid organizations like the Thailand Burma Border Consortium for food. Yesterday they brought rice, yellow beans and fish paste. Unfortunately rice prices have gone up dramatically and now there is less food to go around.

Traditional Dress

I want the world to see traditional Karen clothes. I want people to know that we have our own culture.

Child

Her face is beautifully decorated with powdered tree bark. It also protects her from the sun.

My Story

I am a refugee from Burma. Before I fled to Thailand, I lived with my mother and sister in a small village nestled in the hills of Karen State. Karen State is located in Southeast Burma and is the homeland of our ethnic Karen people. I lived there peacefully throughout my childhood. When I was 14 my father died from diseased water. His stomach grew very big while the rest of his body became small. The government hospital was too far away and too expensive. In Burma, only the rich have access to health care.

I’ve lived in Thailand since 2000. I am happy here because there is electricity, clean water, latrines, and health care. Here I do not have to worry about forced labor. However I also miss home. I miss fresh natural vegetables. I miss the shade of our beautiful trees and the cool springs of Karen State. Most of all I miss my mother and sister.

I have only been able to return to visit my family once. It’s a dangerous journey and I could not stay for long. They work hard growing food in the communal fields and selling it in the markets. There is no school, so my sister has no opportunity for an education. Still, it was wonderful to see them. Wonderful to hear them say my name Naw K’Neh Mei, which mean “Wild Bee”.