2008 Woodie Awards
Protest the issues, not the Olympics
Issue date: 5/1/08
Current rules prohibit athletes participating in the Olympics from taking part in any political, religious or racial demonstrations before or after the competition. The stipulation was instigated to prevent the integrity of the Games from being influenced by external political agendas.
Some have suggested that a boycott of the Games entirely would send a powerful message saying that human rights violations will not be tolerated by the international community. But such an approach to injustice does not attack the issue at its roots. As Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said in February this year, "I certainly think it's reasonable to use this window to encourage China to act as a responsible global citizen. [But] I think the boundary between government and sport is one that politicians should cross very carefully."
Why attack the Games when they themselves are not what you oppose? If you're a politician or an athlete, the best way to voice your disapproval is not tacit nonattendance. You should demonstrate your censure by showing up and upholding the ideal that the Olympic Games symbolize: the showcasing of human potential through peaceful cooperation and competition.
Some have suggested that a boycott of the Games entirely would send a powerful message saying that human rights violations will not be tolerated by the international community. But such an approach to injustice does not attack the issue at its roots. As Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell said in February this year, "I certainly think it's reasonable to use this window to encourage China to act as a responsible global citizen. [But] I think the boundary between government and sport is one that politicians should cross very carefully."
Why attack the Games when they themselves are not what you oppose? If you're a politician or an athlete, the best way to voice your disapproval is not tacit nonattendance. You should demonstrate your censure by showing up and upholding the ideal that the Olympic Games symbolize: the showcasing of human potential through peaceful cooperation and competition.
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Jason
posted 6/02/08 @ 12:44 PM EST
I am surprised. I fully expected to rain down on your position with all the tempest I could muster in disagreement. Instead, while I do not see eye to eye with you throughout, your presentation nevertheless has lead me to consider more in regards to the calls to boycott the games in China. (Continued…)
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