China's Conscientious Citizenry

Never in the past ten centuries have policies brought more peace and prosperity to China's citizens than in the last two decades. Recent graduates of China's educational system are the most forward looking bunch since expectations of a lifestyle with their own homes, cars and gadgets, fueled by double digit economic growth throughout most of their student lives, are within reach. Young professionals have not experienced repression, Tienanmen is a distant, if not unknown event, and their concerns have been allowed to dwell in the realm of personal and economic development and growth; largely through the efforts of its government.

This, coupled with an overhauled educational system that inculcates the vivid oppression suffered under foreign invaders in the 19th century, while glossing over the Cultural Revolution and suggesting that Chairman Mao's dictatorship was a 30% arithmetical mistake, period; is the foundation of the fierce loyalty and intense patriotism of China's educated youth. They are the biggest beneficiaries of the country's rise as an economic giant and an emerging military power.The absence of exposure outside the academe that would provide a wider perspective other than the government's viewpoint is a limiting experience. Studying is the major, if not sole, focus.

China has successfully developed a citizen's defense line of educated and computer savvy young professionals who are adept at defending and countering global animosities toward their beloved country. Their rightful pride in their country's accomplishments find unquestioning support for the government, and drives them to close ranks and take action against those who malign their government's policies, especially those that pertain to Tibet. They cannot comprehend why Tibetans would refuse improved incomes and a better financial future, opting for a return to a feudal society instead.

In recent weeks, they have been able to organize counter rallies in other countries versus the Olympic torch protests, used photos of Chinese supporting Tibet and plastered these on websites with their complete identities, background, and relatives in China for harassment and vilification. Calls for boycott of French products flood Chinese websites; and some Chinese have taken their reactions offline, targeting specific individuals using information on what is referred to as "Human Flesh Search Engines". CNN was a target for service interruption in some parts of Asia yesterday, believed to be a result of attacks by China's bloggers. Chinese authorities have cautioned its citizens to curb their patriotic zeal and warned against endangering open policies for foreign investment.

China's citizens have anchored their dignity on the Olympics and are extremely proud of being hosts for the Games. They expect more open and informed communication as a result of first hand-inside knowledge of the country, and hope to establish better relations with nations of the world. They view western media's portrayal of China as biased and are inclined to think that envy of their progress and a desire for their failure propels this initiative. Majority believe that the issue of Tibet and human rights be tackled after the Games, as losing face will affect the nation's momentum. Protesters are in danger of making enemies of everyone in China if they persist.

Some argue that Tibetans were treated better by China than the New World settlers treated the Native Americans and the African Americans. Also, that Tibetans are better off than their Iraqi or Afghanistan counterparts from the way they were invaded by US and British forces; while human rights at Guantanamo and rendition by the US have been going on for some time. From the Chinese citizens' perspective, based on their studies of history and internet access, the west has often used a double standard in passing judgment on other countries' actions while covering it's own transgressions with hype, denials, falsehoods, skewed opinions, half truths and blatant lies. The current theme being used by the west that China will host the Games to parade itself is seen as a narrow point of view perpetuated by a condescending attitude, disguised as concern for justice and human rights. It is meant to downplay the admiration for the efforts of the country and its citizens. These are the reasons why China's citizens believe the issues are being drummed up.

From this perspective, they have a valid point.

Haaaarrwwwwk...Twooooooph...Ting!

Credits : Ricky Dungca, US Correspondent

Caged in a Chinaman's Chance

The Tibetan struggle for independence is facing a Chinaman's chance of success. This does not mean that the actions of Tibetans will be equated with China's current success. On the contrary, it means it has no chance to succeed.

The term "Chinaman's Chance" evolved into an insult or slur against the Chinese, caused by the devolution of the term's usage from its original intent. The historical context began during the California gold rush where Chinese laborers working for the railroad were sought for demanding jobs using explosives, but were paid half the salary of the Irish railroad worker. Yet they had to pay higher taxes, were barred from testifying in court for violent acts against them, were denied citizenship, and could be evicted from profitable property. These restrictions and injustices gave the Chinese a very slim chance, if at all, to succeed in America.

Ironically, the Chinese did make it in their own country, and are now arguably richer than the United States. The Tibetans, who are not Chinese, are at the receiving end of this centuries old phrase that once described their present invaders. Its derisive use against Tibetans is due to the fact that China sees Tibet as their own territory, where the Tibetan nomad tribes have settled without their assent. They are also determined to populate the territory with Han Chinese and wipe out the Tibetan culture, religion, tradition and practice by banning these in schools, and all other public fora. All development and opportunities are given to the Han Chinese and the Tibetans are regarded as the "coolie population" like the Chinese were in America. Even if the territory is theirs historically, they are powerless against China's military might and economic domination.

What country in the world today would dare go against China? What sovereign nation does not owe China substantial sums and where investments and economic growth are hinged on China's friendship and patronage? Might the world be witnessing the showcasing of China's dominance in the coming Olympics? Will controversial decisions and victories rear its ugly head in the summer games? Will referees and officiating favor the host? Will bribes and other dirty tactics covertly undertaken be the norm of the world's foremost sports event? Will the meaning of sportsmanship be changed to accepting the decision of judges even if these were called blindly or obviously flawed? Who would dare challenge China, France? That's hilarious. President Sarkozy is a joke even to the French.

The Tibetans are caged in this futile struggle to use the Olympics to wage their war of independence. Support will be weak and will consist of token diplomatic effort. It is of no significant economic, military, or political importance to the western powers to interfere in this sorry development. These are the critical realities that first world nations consider the most important. Humanity and the right to life, liberty, freedom, justice, equality, and the pursuit of happiness are mere rhetorics used to demonstrate that they have a conscience. They will state their sorrow but do little else.

Haaarrrwwwwwk...Twoooooph...Ting!