China, The Olympics, & Darfur

The Olympics being held in Beijing has caused many to protest China’s involvement in the genocide in Darfur. Some feel this is the perfect opportunity to pressure China into ceasing its support of the Sudanese government and army. Some question if the Olympics is the right form to stage political protest.

The Olympics is about sportsmanship, and world competition. Joey Cheek a US Olympic Medal Winner delivered a petition with 40,000 signatures to the Chinese Embassy. On the eve of hosting the biggest international festival in the world, China must be conscious of its image. The world is coming to China and so are the critical eyes who wonder why China has not done more for the victims in Darfur.

“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of man, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity.” (The Olympic Charter)


Joey Cheek’s organization is wherewillwebe.org