Everyone seems concerned about what will happen at the Summer Olympics this year in Beijing. Many want President Bush, and other leaders, to do a mini-boycott of the games by not showing up for the Opening Ceremonies. Of course in the long run, such a boycott would do absolutely nothing. Others are decrying the games because of human rights issues in China. Still others are upset with the oppression of Christian’s in China. It is no secret that athletes have been told they are not allowed to take Bibles with them to the games.
I guess with all that in mind, I do have a few questions — Did no one think of this earlier? Does this come as a surprise? - and last but certainly not least - Who thought it was a good idea to host the games in Beijing, China in the first place?
Now, on top of the above concerns, lets toss in a fear of terrorist attacks, and smog issues!
That’s right, I said smog issues. Of course once again, it’s no secret that smog has long been a problem in Beijing. Since that’s the case - Why is this concern just coming to the surface now? Did no one think this would be issue earlier? Just who sits on the Olympic Board picking the locations for future games. Apparently even the leaders in China recognize this problem and as a result they’ve launched a program to clear the air, by clearing the streets. Will it be enough though? Victor Cha, professor of Asian studies at Georgetown University says the stakes are high;
“You can have beautiful new stadiums but if they’re all completely clouded in carbon dust and coal, that is going to ruin the picture that they’re trying to present to the world.”
Really? No kidding? You mean carbon dust and coal is an issue? Does Al Gore know about this? Instead of picking on the United States, the country that actually elected the man as a Vice President, maybe the former Vice President should realize he has it pretty good here. Instead of calling Americans stupid and irresponsible, maybe Gore should look overseas at countries that have major air quality issues. But then again, I guess that would be too easy. It would also mean traveling away from all the comforts he enjoys here.
These Summer Games are really turning into a joke. They’re supposed to showcase the best of each country represented at the Games. Instead, the Summer Games in Beijing could turn into a cough-fest with sickness and disease as athletes not only compete against one another, but also compete in pollution. Will we see the real China during the Summer Games? Probably not. We will end up with a so-called sanitized Beijing which will white-wash pollution problems for a short time. But, like a bad weed, when all is said and done, those same pollution and human rights problems will sprout back up through the white-wash.
Just my two cents,
Dr. Rus
