Protesting Is Not Bad Manners, It's A Statement Of Free Speech

Sydney Morning Herald

Saturday August 9, 2008

Rod Lander (Letters, August 8) thinks it is bad form to launch a political protest in Beijing during the Olympics. I beg to differ. With his attitude, serious problems such as our treatment of Aborigines, or China's suppression of dissent, would be swept under the carpet.

On a recent trip to China I was surprised how friendly ordinary Chinese are, despite being stuck with a vile government. The Beijing Olympics is a chance for the world to register its abhorrence of China's policies. I have nothing but admiration for any high-profile athlete who is prepared to stick his neck out for such a worthy cause.

Mike Phillips Wollstonecraft

Interest in the America's Cup yacht race waned after the historic Australian win, largely because it ceased to be a contest between sailors and became a competition between lawyers. The Olympics are going the same way. It is increasingly becoming a contest between the chemists and drug manufacturers of the competing nations.

Richard Keyes EnfieldIf I'm any judge, Beijing's javelin judges will be eliminated before the second round.

Kevin Gartrell Cooranbong

I can't see why Tourism Beijing didn't follow Tourism Australia's "So where the bloody hell are you?" campaign.

Hendry Wan Matraville

What is all this fuss about Beijing's air quality and fear for the health of "our" athletes? That's good Aussie coal that they are breathing.

Darren Whitaker Surry Hills

Are the Chinese really accountable for the state of their environment? It could be argued that Australian consumer habits have contributed to China's problem. If you have a plasma TV or mobile phone, there's a good chance it was made in China.

The Australian consumer has enjoyed cheap imports from a workforce being paid a pittance, with no health and safety protocols and where there have been no environmental impact studies. Governments have been happy to do business without asking questions and corporations have been keen to turn our natural resources into dollars.

China's economy is going gangbusters and our economy has defied recession by being dragged in its wake. So, as our athletes wheeze over the finish line, we should not forget our own contribution.

Christopher Woodley Vaucluse

I have not heard of Doug Deep being selected for the Australian Olympic team. This must be the first time he has missed selection in years.

Terence Bright Penrith

© 2008 Sydney Morning Herald

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