Despite the so-called "liberalization" announced by the Belarusan officials, there are still people suffering persecution by the authorities for their political views and activism.  

About 40 Belarusans (mostly young people) participated in the rally, taking part in the development of democratic principles in Belarus. Among the participants was the well-known politician Zyanon Paznyak. He commenced his speech by thanking everyone for coming and noted that each rally of this kind is a step towards a new Belarus. Mr.Paznyak underlined that moral support by the Belarusans abroad is very necessary for those who struggle back home. Some activists of the BYMA and the parish officer of the Cathedral of St.Cyril of Turau Anatol Kolbun also addressed the meeting.   

It was said at the rally that Yury Lyavonau was released from jail. Unfortunately, his colleagues Mikalai Autukhovich and Uladzimir Asiepenka, who were arrested at the same time as Y.Lyavonau, are still in pre-trial prison. It was mentioned that not long ago young activist Artsyom Dubskie was convicted, while other participants of the so-called "the case of 14s" were still persecuted by the authorities. The speakers at the rally spoke about the victims of political recruitment -- a new form of persecution in Belarus -- Ivan Shyla, Zmitser Khvedaruk and Franak Vyachorka. These young activists were enlisted in the armed forces with an outraged violation of the procedure required by law.  

As the organizers of the rally emphasized, the most important goal of the meeting was to support those courageous people of Belarus and to inform Belarusans in America about the political situation in their native country.  

New-yorkers and visitors also took part in the rally in a certain way. Car- and taxi-drivers were supporting Belarusans with their car-honks, in a  reaction to the numerous white-red-white banners and posters. Passers-by and bicycle-riders were stopping to ask questions, showing sincere interest in the events that took place in recently unknown to them Belarus.  

The rally was ended with the new tradition --- singing Belarusan anthems.  

The BYMA thanks all the people who have taken part in the rally and invites everyone to join them with new ideas and suggestions. Together we are stronger!  

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