Published by: World Tibet Network News Monday, December 1, 1997

This story appeared as the main editorial in the Calgary Sun for November 30, 1997

There are many reasons why China must be constantly reminded the free world abhors its abuse of human rights.

But the poignant words in a neatly-typed letter to the editor by Sun reader Nima Dorjee said it best of all: "Last night, after participating in the demonstrations, I slept soundly, knowing that no policemen would come to haul me away in the middle of the night for my beliefs."

Dorjee is from Tibet and was raised in a refugee camp. His experience with Chinese oppression led him to organize the protest against Jiang Zemin Wednesday.

If any good comes of the Chinese leader's visit, it will be that he was able to witness firsthand how effectively a prosperous democracy functions without trampling the rights of its citizens.

Jiang's biggest eyeopener must have come from the noisy protests that dogged his footsteps.

He must have scratched his head in amazement that ordinary Canadians are allowed to express their opinions on such an important matter as a state visit designed to stimulate the flow of billions of dollars. Even though, in our opinion, security officials did everything they could to ensure protesters were neither seen nor heard by Jiang.

The protesters should have been given more of an opportunity to make their message loud and clear. Our leaders certainly hadn't the slightest intention of broaching the issue.

From their obsequious kowtowing, to dismissive comments about the protesters and China's human rights record, it was obvious our city, provincial and federal leaders were blinded during Jiang's visit by a glowing dollar sign.

Improving trade between the two countries will undoubtedly bring knowledge and prosperity to China that might help pave the road out of the shadow of tyranny for the 1.2 billion people in that country.

But that is no reason to offer a hero's welcome to the leader of a country where protesters are executed or languish in prison.

China's policies on abortion, human rights, religious freedom, arms sales, Tibet and Taiwan are enough to turn the stomach of decent people everywhere.

Our politicians' glib attitudes can't erase our memories of human bloodshed, grief and suffering.

In fact, we fear their smiles and silence will lead Jiang and his henchmen to believe our country doesn't care about China's breaches of human rights.

Democracy is a fragile thing that requires constant diligence, lest it be allowed to slip away.

Our leaders seem to believe if they ignore the issue and deny it is a problem, it will just go away.

Sorry gentlemen. That might work in China, but it doesn't go over very well here in the true north strong and free.