Yokohama Living

Protests that have been following the Olympic Torch all around the world against China’s treatment of Tibet have continued in Japan. I can understand the protests against China but I don’t really understand why they have to disrupt the torch relay. I think a lot of people feel honored to carry the torch for their country. It is a source of pride. But these demonstrations are almost turning it into something to be ashamed of. The Olympic Games are being held in China, but they are not China. I think the protesters should find another way to give their message.

The torch relay has become something of a farce because of this issue. We read about the routes being changed suddenly, running through warehouses, traveling through secret locations and other such nonsense. I said nonsense, but necessary nonsense it seems. Below is a quote from the Mainichi Daily.

Police guards in track suits surrounded the torch bearers and another 100 uniformed riot police ran alongside six patrol cars and two motorcycles. They were backed up by thousands of other police.