5 of 22

Write now Article Tools

Why should the West care about Asians running around in robes? Why should the West care about repression in Tibet? Should Western countries boycott Beijing because Tibetans are being beaten, jailed or murdered? These questions and others are on the minds of human rights activists protesting the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

During the last month, 18 Tibetan civilians in Nepal were killed by Chinese soldiers. For three decades, the communist government occupied its Buddhist neighbor. Thousands of Tibetans died under the iron rule of occupation. Citizens are denied their inalienable rights. They are forced to live destitute and depend on basic resources. China proceeded to implement their Asian brand of the "iron curtain". They confessed to this tactic as protecting their country from military invasion. In the past, terrorists used discord to plan international incidents. In 1972, September Fatah militants kidnapped and murdered 11 Israeli athletes in Munich, Germany to forment their ongoing war with the "Zionist nation". In 1988, some nations protested sending their athletes due to the Abu Nidal terror network's waves of hijackings and the bloody airport massacres in Rome and Athens.

In 2000 and 2004, basketball superstars Tracy McGrady and Ray Allen refused to sign up for USA basketball because of security concerns over their families. Other stars, like Kobe Bryant and Jason Kidd expressed similar sentiments. Those reasons might've led to America fielding a second-tier team in Barcelona.

The Olympic games are worth tens of millions of dollars to China. They are worth much more to Western nations in bragging rights. Capitalist nations are venturing to Red China to win gold medals. The lure has global appeal. Nevertheless, Tibet is still enslaved. Are human rights being bought for the sake of amateur competition? When are world leaders going to say "Enough is enough, China! Get out of Tibet!" Civilians are being killed as we speak. Protestors are being arrested for demonstrations. The Tibetan population suffered military repression.

Our celebrities are speaking out. Rap legends, The Beastie Boys, stood against China's violations in Tibet since 1990. Two years ago, they and other musicians gathered to perform a Free Tibet benefit concert. Rock star and social activist, Bono spoke out on behalf for Tibetan citizens. Madonna did so as well.

A runner delivered the once, celebrated Olympic torch. Before, crowds cheered at witnessing history. This time, it was a mixed response. I'm sure he felt lonely holding a dimly-lit torch among a half-hearted crowd.

With innocent blood on their hands, Communist China received their precious host city bid. Protests, marches and outcries fell on deaf ears. The West has done like Buddist monks of the past. They've also taken vows of silence.

Learn more about this author, Marcus Brooks.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about 2008 Olympics: The impact of international politics on the Beijing Olympics?
We want to hear your view. Write now!