Olympic Torch

[ImFeklhr]

Ok folks, I need some input. The Olympic torch, heading for China, is making its only stop in the U.S. right here in San Francisco. This takes place in a couple weeks.

I am very torn on this issue. I am very troubled by human rights abuses in China. The list is huge, from Tibet, the death penalty, political prisoners, Darfur, etc etc.

However, I understand that the Olympics is not supposed to be politicized.

I am not someone who takes to the streets to protest with great regularity, but it is something I am strongly considering doing.

Anybody have any thoughts on the Chinese Olympics in general, or with any advice?

 

[smurphy]

Sounds like you are attempting to get in touch with your inner moonbat. I say keep your head down and go to Wal-Mart. Nobody likes a trouble maker.:nono:

 

[IntenseOperator]

There's nothing like a woman with a quality foot binding

 

[Mr. Mel]

I.F.-

I love you, I will come protect you, if that is a worry. Would anyone bother the 2 of us in drag?

 

[ImFeklhr]

Sounds like you are attempting to get in touch with your inner moonbat. I say keep your head down and go to Wal-Mart. Nobody likes a trouble maker.:nono:

Man, everyone is in bed with China... EVERYONE.

Our mayor and police department (you know the one that supports gay marriages, and pretty much everything else under the sun), is setting up "free speech zones" for protestors.

Naturally they will be tucked away from cameras that are beaming everything back to China.

I really DO understand security, and the fact that a parade or procession needs clear paths, but aside from that, this whole COUNTRY is a free speech zone. A police official went as far to say "an area will be set up to deal with First Amendment issues"

... as if he wish that pesky thing would just go away.

:nono:

 

[smurphy]

A police official went as far to say "an area will be set up to deal with First Amendment issues"

... as if he wish that pesky thing would just go away.

:nono:

And this is SF for cryin out loud. Man if you can't throw a good protest there, then we got problems.:shrug:

 

[ImFeklhr]

My original posting was made before the protests in Greece,London,Paris etc., but it definitely seems like there is worldwide sentiment against the Chinese.

The San Francisco leg of the torch run is taking place Wednesday, and there are several protests planned.

I am still a bit torn. I want to protest what I feel are serious human rights abuses by China. I mean they manage to make the United States look docile and benevolent. Political prisoners/crushing dissent is probably my 'pet' issue I have a problem with. But, you combine that with their complicit behavior in Darfur, their actions in Tibet, their support of the Burmese regime, and you are left with an even more bitter taste in your mouth.

However, I don't really like associating with "career" protesters who engage in bad behavior almost regardless of the cause. Plus it would require, ya know, not working for a day.

Anyway, I know most of you guys are only interested in presidential politics or Iraq, but I want to submit the question:

Should China have been given the Olympics? Is protesting what is supposed to be about sports and unity appropriate?

 

[Chadman]

Interesting topic, glad it was brought to us by someone so thoughtful and objective. I personally see nothing wrong with engaging in a non-violent protest in some way - and understand not wanting to be linked with the everyday-everytheme protestors. I admire you for doing it, if you do. As for the Olympics in general, that's a tough one. I'm not sure how I feel about the Opening Ceremonies and the events. I don't think we should boycott the events, but the Opening Ceremonies - that might be important and impactful.

I think there are good reasons why China should not have been awarded the games - not the least of which is the horrible air quality and environment, which will affect performance, and is already keeping some top athletes away. I'm not really versed in all of the social issues there, and really don't feel qualified to comment on that - other than my interpretation of their regime is quite negative. There are also some good reasons for them to host the games - population, athletic prowess, and in some ways bringing the issues to light with the award is a good thing.

Would be interested to hear Wayne's take on it, and his wife's take on it - maybe more importantly. (Other than a comment about your Code-Pink protesting friends, that is... )

Keep us posted. I think it's a noble action on your part, as long as you don't "torch" anybody...

 

[smurphy]

Wayne goes mysteriously silent when the darker topics of his precious China come up. He actually thinks we should be more like them.

I say go to the protest. You will probably regret not attending - it's a unique opportunity to make a statement for what you believe.

 

[smurphy]

I'm thinking maybe we should Rickroll the opening ceremonies.

 

[THE KOD]

Honestly I would go and protest.

The Summer Olympics are going to be ruined this year in China and many people do not see it coming.

It is the protesters and tibet people and all that want to be heard on a world stage. China is going to be embarressed like never before.

They will not be able to beat people and gas them and arrest them in the citys where the events are taking place. There will be TV crews all over looking for it.

It will be a public relations disaster for China. And there will not be much they can do to qwell the uprisings, riots etc. It also may not be a safe place to be for Americans.

And to think all they were worried about was clearing the smog out of Bejing before the Olympic games.