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Athletes should think twice about participating in Beijing: Stojko

The Canadian Press

Latest comment posted at 5:31 PM EDT 17/05/08

Olympic medallist tells rally in Toronto he would consider boycott if he were still in competition ...Read the full article

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  1. s from canada from Canada writes: I have to agree with Stojko, some things are more important than Olympic medals.
  2. matthew parsons from Canada writes: Elvis who?
  3. ted baxter from Canada writes: i wouldn't count on too many athletes boycotting Beijing. They're too focused on themselves and their careers to care about anything else.
  4. Craig Cooper from Toronto, writes: Easy to do when you are no longer in competition.
  5. Craig Cooper from Toronto, writes: Why is this an issue now?

    Why was this not an issue when Beijing was awarded the Olympics?

    After all, China has been crapping on Nepal forever. China has had abysmal human rights forever.

    Do you know why it is an issue now?

    Because it is fashionable to be anti-Beijing Olympics right now.

    It has nothing to do with human rights.
  6. doug burt from writes: yes actually, his career is over what about others who have yet to live their dream...plus what would a boycott accomplish it won't result in a ceasation of China's Human Rights issues or their issue with Tibet...to not boycott has much more relevance as it puts the spotlight on China for a couple weeks....time in which the world will be watching....
  7. Johnny Canuck from Canada writes: It's takes a lot of gall for Elvis to say 'Athletes should think twice about heading to Beijing' now that he's a been and has no chance oif ever competing again. I just lost a lot of respect for this athlete.
  8. The Iconoclast from Canada writes: Headline News?? GM just loves to seize on any opportunity to broadcast its biased agenda. Editors: when are you going to have the guts to open up discussions on anything Israel?
  9. Dani Ho from Canada writes: Elvis ... mind your own business. Easy for you to tell others to 'not go' when you yourself had no problems going to places going to China in 1994 to win a world title ... I don't think the so-called oppression in Tibet didn't start after you won a title.

    Hypocrite.

    Or how about speaking out against your own country and how they've oppressed the aboriginals? Against France (re: Albertville Olympics) and their treatment of Algerians? Etc, etc, etc ... world has lots of people oppressing others. You decide to pick the topic du jour and have others make a statement but not yourself since you were too concerned with winning a title.
  10. Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Indeed, make a stand for human rights: go and demonstrate in Iraq and in Palestine instead of going to Beijing! Those demonstrations are long overdue.
  11. a a from Canada writes: Elvis : make sure you are in and than make your decision, you were not that good to 'still a competing athlete'

    welcome to Beijing if you were still a competing athlete.

    Nobody cares who you are.
  12. Prairie Boy from Canada writes: Elvis has left the building. Oh.. the other Elvis has left the building.
  13. B Lam from Canada writes: Elvis Stojko should have said that eight years ago when the Games were awarded to China. Now, all the athletes worked their guts out to get a chance to participate in the Games and Elvis asked them to boycott? What a stupid jerk?
  14. a a from Canada writes: Elvis Stojko should think twice about heading to Beijing: Can he?
  15. Bobby Culture from Canada writes: Elvis, you have a lot to learn in life. Do it fast if I were you!!! What an embarrassment.
  16. Tim Cares from Canada writes: How does a figure skater boycott the Summer Olympics?
  17. R. M. from Regina, Canada writes: Mr. Stojko makes a fundamental error in logic. If athlete's are in the Games representing their country then they must reflect their country's views, not their own views and if they have a problem then simply stay silent...silence often speaks louder anyway. If they are there representing themselves, then of course they can express their own views.
  18. Denis Love from Victoria BC, Canada writes: I'm sure Elvis isn'tthe only guy thinking that way because the Olypic drug senior boy Dick Pound told the atheletes if you go shut up about what's going on.

    Elvis redefined men's figure skating and was famous for his quad jumps. A thrill to watch and a solid performer. So he has a social conciense and I sure am happy he does. Kids work for years for a shot at the big time at the Olympics even after doing the worlds.

    But how in God's name a country with e human rights record as China got the nod in the first place. Ooops almost forgot. It's the money, not for the atheletes but the sponsors. And the same massive costs will be here in Bc in two years. Time to go away for a few weeks. Way to go Elvis and we all missed you when you left the building
  19. Tim Cares from Canada writes: Is he John Ferguson Junior's brother?
  20. a a from Canada writes: Elvis Stojko: to go or not, is your choice if you were in.
  21. varun xm from Toronto, Canada writes: What a tool.
  22. B Lam from Canada writes: Denis Love from Victoria BC, Canada writes:

    But how in God's name a country with e human rights record as China got the nod in the first place. Ooops almost forgot. It's the money, not for the atheletes but the sponsors. And the same massive costs will be here in Bc in two years. Time to go away for a few weeks. Way to go Elvis and we all missed you when you left the building
    ________________________________________

    At least 1.3 billion people on earth want China to host the Games. Is that not a good enough reason.

    Elvis is one of the few Canadians holding a world championship title. One less chance for Canadians to participate in the Games, one less chance for Canadians to share the fame of being a Canadian with world champion. I think that is Elvis' prime reason of encouraging the boycott of the Beijing Olympics. Human rights? He couldn't care less.
  23. Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Elvis is absolutely right...if we value human rights we will not send any figure skaters to the summer Olympics...
  24. Frank Castor from Babylon, Canada writes: Instead of WW3 we could just have it out on the field hockey field.
  25. les wall from Vancouver, Canada writes: Well said, Elvis!
  26. ryan rankin from Canada writes: Aren't you a retired figureskater?
  27. My 2 Cents from Canada writes: Easiest cop out in the world....to say you would do something, when in fact, you aren't even faced with the decision.

    It reminds me of someone telling the world they would gladly donate a chunk of their liver to save a life.....and then when the actual time comes to make that decision....not quite so bold now are we?

    When Elvis made that statement, I wonder where his shirt, shoes, laces, soles, pants, zipper, buttons and hair gel were made....I'd bet China.

    A lot of China bashing going on these days.

    Canada the little mouse, may awaken the sleeping giant.
  28. W_UP 2008 from Canada from Canada writes: Michael Sharp: Don't be a hypocrite, your no beauty...................... Elvis is right, right right. His using his common sense, which is lacking in a few people.
  29. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes: Elvis. The ugliest man in sports. Next to Tim Hunter.

    Oh, THAT makes a difference! What in the name of hell was that idiotic comment innate of?
  30. Kurtis Smith from Canada writes: We have two choices;

    Welcome China into the world, celebrate their amazing achievements together with them, and try to work together to make the world and China better places,

    or

    Reject them, make them lose face, and drive them away from the west forever.

    I chose to welcome the Chinese. They are just people confronted with massive change, trying to come to grips with it. Offer assistance, friendship and most of all give them time.
  31. Likeable Loser? Vote Liberal! from Canada writes:

    Two silver medals ?

    Always a bridesmaid , never a bride.
  32. Dead-Eye Dick from Fiji writes:

    Canadians have th greatest zeal to sermonize from the top of Mount Pious. Linda McQuag for example, is fixated about the Great Satan and has expressed her fixation in a profitable way by writing books, such as Holding the Bullies Coat. And now we have China, complete with human rights abuses, which by the way mean nothing to many people from other parts of the world. But China has something else which flies higher than the peak of Mount Pious: much needed markets for the west. Translation, we as always will place our interests ahead of our values.
  33. John R. S. from st. catharines, Canada writes: Elvis u suck, I used to like u but u have no respect for any of the other athletes that have trained for years and years and then watch their hopes go up in smoke because of a boycot.
    Get lost and get back into obscurity.
    Politics and athletics shouldnt mix.
    Remember how Jesse Owens stuck it to Hitler??
  34. J Law from Canada writes: Craig Cooper from Toronto, writes: Why is this an issue now?

    Why was this not an issue when Beijing was awarded the Olympics?

    After all, China has been crapping on Nepal forever. China has had abysmal human rights forever.

    Do you know why it is an issue now?

    Because it is fashionable to be anti-Beijing Olympics right now.

    It has nothing to do with human rights.

    I tend to agree with this statement. I think they have been crapping on Tibet forever also.
  35. Mike McFae from Canada writes: Sure , Elvis , you would boycott the Olympics and give up any opportunity of those future endorsemenst and cereal commercials. It's like a person saying they would give their money to charity if they won the lotto...so easy to say when you are not - and in this case never will be - in a position to have to do what you say. How crass. The little ballerina should be ashamed of himself.
  36. lotusland maritimer from Sault Ste Marie, Canada writes: There were other Canadian swimmers divers and skaters who outed themselves about being gay and this is somewhat more important going public about the annihilation of a culture ethnic cleansing of a civilization and extermination of a whole people, the Tibetans by the Chinese. I am tremendously impressed by Elvis Stoyko, it takes a lot of courage and integrity to stand up and be counted whatever stage of his carreer he is in. Boycotting is not necessarily the best policy, the Hungarian waterpolo team massacred the Russkies in the pool in Melbourne in 1956 before the blood dried on the streets of Budapest. Were they right or should they have boycotted it? No they proved to the world and themselves as if their compatriots didnt already do it that Hungarians will not be cowed by Russians. With bare hands we defeated their terror tanks just as the Tibetans did and will the Chinese.
    Venceremos, we shall overcome in the fields in the streets in the towns, we shall never surrender.
    Tyrants tremble. Tibet forever.
  37. Liu Yunshan from China writes: After a long string of embarrassments, the pressure is on the CCP to deliver a fault-free Olympics. So far, they have demonstrated that selling tickets and running a torch relay are beyond their grip.
  38. John Williams from Ajax, Canada writes: OH PLEASE...what a joke.

    Every single piece of technology you buy now...MADE IN CHINA.
    All your clothes, all your Dollarama stuff...MADE IN CHINA, usually by teens.

    Its all China.

    If you want to boycott, boycott the opening ceremonies, and sign petitions, etc. But just do your sport.

    China ain't gonna listen to you whiners.
    They will violate 'human rights' no matter what you do. If the Chinese gov't released power, China would become a bloodbath.
  39. Kan Tankerous from Tronna, Canada writes: Wow! Michael Sharp defending China and opining on male beauty. I figured I'd see a Wal-Mart in Bamfield before that.

    Of course, Michael takes his marching orders from Steve, so if Steve said whooping cranes were a menace then Michael would be passing around a recipe for Crane Cacciatore.
  40. Peter Copland from Victoria, Canada writes: Shame on you, Elvis.
    Your comments are totally inappropriate......'if you were still competing'. Well, you're not still competing. Don't try to ruin the dreams of our athletes who unlike you at the time, are not professional with big money behind them. They are struggling to make ends meet as they near the final stages before Beijing.
    What are you personally doing to improve the situation in China?
    Don't pass the buck!
  41. Baad Daddy from Northwest Ontario, Canada writes: Give your medals back, Elvis, before asking people to boycott that which they have trained for over many years. Without doing so, comments like yours have left the building. Thank you, thank you very much...
  42. Mahatma Gandhi from Calgary, Canada writes: Methinks many of these posters do protest too much.

    Elvis Stoyko is a decent man. I'm sure he means what he says.

    Here's something we can all do: Boycott the corporate sponsors of the Beijing games. They're on the official website. Google 'corporate sponsors beijing games'.
  43. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: If you don't want to go then don't go.

    This guy is a loser, only a silver medalist ... second best is the worst. LOL
  44. Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada writes: Hypocrite? Crass? Ulterior motive? Little Ballerina?

    Elvis is a national role model for many and have achieved greatness for our country.

    While I and some posters may disagree with his method of boycotting, other posters that denigrate Elvis should re-think about what they have posted.
  45. Mr. Achinghead from Canada writes: Elvis is right on! What makes sport so special that somehow it becomes more important the individual human rights? The religion of sport has become quite an obsession in our current age of hypocrisy and a lot of people remain blind to its effects. To say that 'politics' shouldn't interfere with the Olympics or with its atheletes is hogwash. This isn't about politics, its about human freedom and doing the right thing as opposed to nothing.

    Ultimately history will be the judge. Here we stand in a time when we issue apologies for past wrongs...and for those times when we did nothing and people suffered. It will be a burden our children and grandchildren will have to bear I suppose.
  46. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: 'Elvis is a national role model for many and have achieved greatness for our country.'

    That explains why Canada is falling behind in the global competition because our country's youth chose the wrong role model.

    This guy has no clue to what he is doing and saying, I'm sure somebody paid him to say this crap.

    I heard a lot of Canadian athletes are living in very poor condition after their retirement.
  47. doug burt from writes: for people that are for a boycot, and to the Olympic organizing committee....last time i looked China is still a communist country, a country that learned from the former U.S.S.R. going bankrupt, literally....and are now using our western dollars to build a world power...do you think they actually care about a boycott, about economic sanctions, everything we get comes from them sorry its to late for a boycott or anything..ladies and gentlemen I give you the world's next superpower thanks to shareholders who want a profit on their investment...sorry to late....China is it...
  48. James Legallyblunt from Canada writes: winter game athlete...retired... boycott... summer Olympics...

    what a piece of strong message on the front page...
  49. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: I have a better suggestion to this guy ... he is ONLY twice SECOND best in the winter Olympics, right?

    BOYCOTT THE WINTER OLYMPICS, the one in 2010, in Vancouver. LOL

    He is only trying to catch some eyeballs when nobody remembers nor knows about him.

    LOSER!

    Being an athlete, if you want to prove yourself, go for the gold in Beijing!
  50. Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada writes: Rick Cheung from Canada writes: ....That explains why Canada is falling behind in the global competition because our country's youth chose the wrong role model....This guy has no clue to what he is doing and saying, I'm sure somebody paid him to say this crap,,,,

    ------------------------

    And you are the right role model for posters for this board.

    And your last sentence above describes who, yourself?

    And the funny thing, is I actually disagree with Elvis' call for boycott. After reading some of the rants, I may now change my mind.
  51. Censorship Fodder from YES, RACHEL - WELCOME TO THE REAL CHINA, Canada writes:

    Yes, Rachel - welcome to the REAL China.
  52. R L from Canada writes: What a complete fool. Elvis would have our athletes' upcoming achievements/medals diminished by his 'has been' comments? So our Canadian amateur athletes are somehow 'bad' for representing our country at the Olympics in a sport they trained in for years?

    What does Elvis even think he will achieve by making these stupid comments, other than insult our athletes?

    Canadians across the country (and the world) will be cheering on our athletes and hoping for some medals for Canada!
  53. Ed Lewis from Sanityville, Canada writes: Right on Elvis!

    Boycott the Olympics!!!!!
  54. Censorship Fodder from IF CCP SHILLS ARE THIS MEAN-SPIRTED ON THESE THREADS, IMAGINE WHAT THINGS ARE LIKE IN CHINA, Canada writes:

    'Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada':

    If CCP shills are this mean-spirited on this thread, imagine what things are like in China.

    All the more reason for a boycott of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
  55. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: 'And your last sentence above describes who, yourself?'

    My last sentence? read again. :)

    'Being an athlete, if you want to prove yourself, go for the gold in Beijing!'
  56. wayne powers from Saskatoon, writes: Isn't it strange how the people who have gone to the Olympics are always in favour of a boycott. Diana Jones Konahowski screamed how unfair it was when Canada boycotted the Moscow games, but after they have got their Olympic experience the way things have been done should be changed.
    These kids put in hours of training and usually only get 1 shot,they deserve their chance.
  57. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: Censorship Fodder is a CHINESE LOSER.

    Don't be fooled by this guy, he has multiple identities on this board and is being paid to stir up the storm in a teapot full time.
  58. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: 'Johnny Canuck from Canada writes: It's takes a lot of gall for Elvis to say 'Athletes should think twice about heading to Beijing' now that he's a been and has no chance oif ever competing again. I just lost a lot of respect for this athlete.'
    __________

    as compared to johnny canuck, who is a 'never was.' at least elvis stojko was once an olympian, he's entitled to state his opinion on the olympics.
  59. Jim Shepherd from Lima, Peru writes: I agree with boycotting Olympic men's figure skating competitions.

    Too bad that Beijing does not have any... Best Regards.
  60. Peter Walker from Canada writes: I guess that he's not trying to become part of the Olympic Movement, helping looking after the Canadian Athletes while they are in competition.

    BUT

    He could still be a shoe in for a Liberal Nomination for an MP !!!

    To hell with Elvis S. !!!
  61. Censorship Fodder from MORE AD HOMINEM ATTACKS FROM PRC SHILLS, Canada writes:

    More ad hominem attacks from PRC shills like 'John D from T-dot, Canada'
  62. Chris Smith from Toronto, Canada writes: Shame on you! Mr. Stojko! BTW, who are you? ohhh, only a two-time SILVER Olympic medallist.
    You think Canadian athletes should “make a stand&8221; for human rights. Okay! Let's FREE QUEBEC!!!! BOYCOTT THE 2010 VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS!!!!!
    How's that? !!!!!!
    Loser!
  63. Censorship Fodder from DON'T ALL THE PERSONAL ATTACKS FROM PRC SHILLS IN THIS THREAD MAKE YOU WANT TO VISIT CHINA?, Canada writes:

    Don't all the personal attacks from PRC shills on this thread make you want to visit China?
  64. Censorship Fodder from NOW ALL THE PRC SHILLS ARE MAKING UP NEW MONIKERS LIKE 'CHRIS SMITH', Canada writes:

    Now all the PRC shills are making up new monikers like 'Chris Smith'
  65. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: 'Rick Cheung from Canada writes: 'Elvis is a national role model for many and have achieved greatness for our country.'

    That explains why Canada is falling behind in the global competition because our country's youth chose the wrong role model. This guy has no clue to what he is doing and saying, I'm sure somebody paid him to say this crap. I heard a lot of Canadian athletes are living in very poor condition after their retirement.'
    _________

    you dont know much about stojko. besides being a world champion figure skater, he's also a black belt in karate. and he's hardly living in poverty, if you knew what he does with his life now, you'd realize how ridiculous your post is. on your last comment though, you're partially right, athletes in many countries are living in poor conditions after their 'retirement.' and chinese athletes are no exception to that rule.
  66. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: You know what, we shall stay away from every G &M discussion where 'Censorship Fodder' shows up.

    I'm starting to think that he is hired by the G & M to stir up the debate and boost traffic of the site.

    Have fun, folks.

    If you are an athlete and choose to boycott, it's your own loss. :)
  67. sophia li from Cornwall, Canada writes: I believe that China is getting better and stronger, Chinese are working hard to make better things to supply whole world.

    If Chinese in China do not cry for their human rights, why left of the world cry for Chinese humam rights?

    Who are these Chinese? How they lost their human right?
  68. Done and Done from Canada writes: How does criticizing the silver medal reflect the 'Olympic values' everyone is so proud of?
  69. Bart Farquart from Vanillaland, Canada writes:
    ------------------------------------------------
    'Tim Cares from Canada writes: How does a figure skater boycott the Summer Olympics?'
    --------------------------------------------

    I know your question is rhetorical but it highlights the lip service habit that permeates our shallow little culture: We can feel good about giving the Chinese government a slap and have the cost of giving that slap completely borne by someone else (i.e. a group of atheletes). And it can all be scheduled in between 'Survivor' and the next playoff game.

    See also 'Earth Hour' and 'Darfur'.
  70. John Williams from Ajax, Canada writes: China has 4x the US population.

    Does China start 4x as many WARS as the USA?
    Does China execute 4x the people as the USA?

    What's the difference?
    Who is more fascist, China or the USA, or Canada under the RCMP and Harper?

    BOYCOTT VANCOUVER.

    If you want to hurt China, boycott WALMART. It all comes from China.
  71. Duane Freemantle from writes: It is strange about Elvis Stojko timing. He is allow to his opinion. However, China needs to change from the inside, and the Olympics is not the venue to influence these changes. The only people who lose out are those that have always had a dream of getting an Olympic gold metal. The Olympics is all about the games. Canadian Athletes have a greater influence by going. Being in China in person is the only way talk to the Chinese school children, and not by sitting at home. Not going does not accomplish anything. The important thing that Elvis Stojko should know is China is not Canada, culturally, in customs, politics or many other aspects that you can think of.
  72. Li Cha Dah from la la land, Canada writes: So don't go Elvis... Oops! You're not slated to go anyway! Sour Grapes? Elvis says don't go to the Olympics and you get front page/website (who really cares except a few athletes?) but say don't go to Afghhanistan (where Canadians are dying) and youu are a trouble maker! Go figure.
  73. Dani Ho from Canada writes: Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada writes: Hypocrite? Crass? Ulterior motive? Little Ballerina?

    Elvis is a national role model for many and have achieved greatness for our country.

    -------
    Elvis MAY have been a national role model many years ago ... but the shell of a man he once was. Certainly we should not encourage our youth to be like him now. I, for one, think he's using a topic to gain notoriety for himself. When was the last time any one said anything good about Elvis? He's really not marketed himself well at all.

    And do you think boycotting an Olympics makes one a better person? As hard as our athletes work for such an event ... you want them to give up? Elvis SHOULD have quit trying to win a world title / Olympic gold many years after he failed ... the 'honourable' thing was to let a younger athlete develop to become a champion by giving up his spot at an international competition (ie he was a has-been in the latter part of his career) yet he selfishly kept himself in competition to win a gold.

    And now he wants our athletes NOT to go to Beijing? What did the Americans achieve when they boycotted the '80 Olympics in Moscow? What did the Soviets achieve when they boycotted the '84 Olympics in LA? NOTHING -- political rhetoric doesn't do squat. Conversely, as someone already stated -- what statement did Jesse Owens achieve in Berlin?

    That's why Elvis is, and will always will be, a hypocrite in my eyes with the shortsighted, self-serving comment he recently made public.
  74. tulip7 R from woodbridge, Canada writes: Censorship Fodder from Toronto: How much you earn by each post or you just complete lose your mind.
  75. John Williams from Ajax, Canada writes: by the way, you can tell the Falun Gong cultists here,as they refer to China as CCP, and post crude overblown Chinese style propaganda. And they will post 100 comments from one person. That is Falun Gong.

    But of course the Chinese Communists are killers. They slaughtered thousands.

    But its not up to athletes. Its up to our government.

    But they DON'T DO ANYTHING. They just make deals for CHEAP STUFF.
    Hypocrites.
  76. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: Ignore 'Censorship Fodder'.

    He is a Chinese jobless idiot paid to stir up the debate and boost this site's traffic.
  77. sophia li from Cornwall, Canada writes: To Censorship Fodder from Toronto, Canada

    I only can say that I see good things in China, I was happy and success in China.

    I see good things, nice people in Canada, I am happy and success in Canada.
  78. W_UP 2008 from Canada from Canada writes: Rick Cheung from Canada writes: Censorship really sounds like a broken record, you mean Canadians don't kill, eat or torture animals?......................... Mr. Cheung. No, we certainly don't eat cats and dogs. China's human rights issues are far more serious than Canada's issues. Sure we have a lot to work on but two wrongs don't make a right. I agree with Elvis, he is brave to take a stand. Good for him.
  79. White Jade from Ireland writes: Ladies and Gentlemen, pardon me while I take out the Trash.

    White Jade takes out the Trash....{Censorship Fudder aka StopChina/Boycott China from Toronto, Canada}
  80. tulip7 R from woodbridge, Canada writes: varun xm from Toronto, Canada writes: What a tool. ----Agree and a loser.
  81. Joe Little from Calgary, Canada writes: Right on Elvis, if you can BOYCOTT. Who do you think you're anyway?
  82. Mac- GLG from Canada writes: Proud Canadian from Canada writes: Elvis is absolutely right...if we value human rights we will not send any figure skaters to the summer Olympics...
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Hey PC - You're on a roll here!! Good one.
    See you in the fall!!!
  83. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: China is OK. I kind of like my cheap but high quality stuff from China. If we can't compete then maybe we should lower our prices. This applies to Canadian Olympic athletes as well.
  84. Springfire From ShenZheng from China writes: If you don't want to go, you don't have to go. Nobody is forcing you. If you have concerns about human rights in China, we welcome that, as long as your intention is good....
  85. Li Cha Dah from la la land, Canada writes: Cruelty to animals? Are you self-rightous prigs for real? Just returned from London UK and the tube/underground is full of European Union/UK anti-Canada/boycott Canada for creulty to animals/seal hunt posters/ads! I guess if you call it part of your culture it is ok... Boycott yourselves you fools.
  86. Ken Simcoe from Toronto, Canada writes: I feel so sorry for Elvis Stojko. You only know China through western media's one-sided anti-China propaganda. Ignorance hurts. Would you boycott Vancouver's winter Olympics, knowing that great human rights violation to our Aboriginals? Watch out for hypocrisy and double-standard practice.
  87. H B from Toronto, Canada writes: I have to agree with Elvis. There will be other opportunities for athletes to fulfill their medal dreams but this may be the only chance the world has to put China in its place. We must take it. It is an ethical decision we ALL need to make.
  88. Garnet Noseworthy from Anguilla writes: Elvis has cause for concert. Mulletcare in China is notoriously poor.
  89. Simon Sh from MTL, Canada writes: Elvis Stojko, who is this guy? Where does this guy hear of all of these 'problems' -- human rights, Tibet protest? If he does know the real situation, then he even does not have the right to judge all of these. Or it might be that he assumes he knows all of the things from the medias and government, but does not he learn from school that all the medias actually are serving the current government at some point? Although not, but do all the medias report the truth of everything? I do not think so. Look at all the faked news they have created and all the stupid mistakes they have made. The mean while, does Elvis a follower of Harper? Isn't he trying to flatter Harper?
    There is one thing we have to keep in mind, the Olympic Games suppose to be the event without politics and is the big 'party' of all the ppl who are willing to see a peaceful world. That is the place, the event, the time all of us should forget prejudice, races, and all united.

    If Elvis himself as a 'famous' athlete (never heard him), he should know what is the meaning of Olympic Games. I feel ashamed about what he said, and the childish behavior of Harper. If he thinks that his absent of the opening ceremonies would be matter or chinese would notice he would concern about that, he is totally wrong, because most of chinese believe most the Canadians like peace, and would understand the true meaning of the big event, and would not as shallow as a politician as Harper.

    I believe chinese are willing to let the ppl around world come to china to know the real china, not the china has been described by government and western medias.

    'One world, one dream'--2008 Beijing.
  90. Commander Groovechild from Canada writes: I didn't realize these athletic events were so heavily politicized. Whenever I watched the Olympics on television in the past, I honestly thought I was seeing young people trying to be the best they can be in a competitive environment. But hearing comments like this from athletes, I don't see the point of watching. Cut public funding to Olympic athletes completely. It's perfectly fine for athletes to express themselves. But if that is the reason why they are competing, I'm not sure why Canada should subsidize them. I didn't realize my tax dollars are being used to influence China's domestic affairs. Political critics are a dime a dozen.
  91. Vote NDP in the next federal/ provincial election from Toronto, Canada writes: Mr Stokjo should of been active when Toronto was bidding for the Olympics in 2001 for the 2008 summer olympics. But then we have biased olympic judges that should be in jail right now for choosing Beijing.
  92. James S. from Toronto, Canada writes: First, to 'John Williams' -- How someone in the West can copy the Chinese Communist Government's line and slander Falun Gong by labeling it a cult is shameful. This cleverly crafted lie has turned off the majority of Chinese people from protecting Falun Gong from human rights abuses, and has prevented people in other countries from wanting to support them. A simple look into their teachings totally debunks this lie.

    We should support them, as with the millions of Chinese people who are being persecuted in China today.

    It's amazing to hear the overall negative sentiment on this conversation board. Did any of you attend the Human Rights Torch Rally? I did. Mr. Stojko's speech was impressive, and he has obviously done his research into the massive human rights abuses by the Chinese Communist government.

    The Chinese government has no regard for human life. They have killed millions of their own to maintain power. They are supporting the military regimes of Sudan, Burma, Vietnam and others, they are supressing Tibetans, Christians, other religious groups and activists, and we don't even know the half of it because the conditions there are so poor and media regulations are so tight. And you're criticizing Elvis Stojko for speaking out about it? Goodness gracious.

    Criticize the killers, not the victims and those who stand up for them.
  93. Montgomery C. Burns from Springfield, Canada writes: Go one step further and boycott the Olympic Games. I haven't watched any Olympic events since 1984 because there are so many cases of athletes who cheat. There is no honour to compete any more.
  94. Ed Long from white Rock, Canada writes: Old athletes who assume their past glories qualify them to affect policy on global issues blow me away.

    Stojko is not a recognized spokesperson on any Olympic committee nor a representative on any athletes' advocacy or social action group. His main accomplishments since retiring from competitive skating are two episodes of the Simpsons.

    I remember Wayne Gretzky being asked about some profound global thing by a wonky interviewer ... ah, that's out of my area. I just know hockey.

    200 people at a rally with an ex-figure skater as a speaker. That is an episode of the Simpsons.
  95. W_UP 2008 from Canada from Canada writes: Li Cha Dah from la la land, Canada writes: Seals are not domesticated. We are more concerned with the human rights violations. Besides: two wrongs don't make a right. And if you must be rude please take it some place else. In order to keep the discussions going on this forum we need to be respectful, to some extent, of one another.
  96. Alex MacLean from Toronto, Canada writes: It is kind of ridiculous to be debating about whether a few athletes should boycott the Olympics, and then step into your car to Canadian Tire or Wal-Mart to stock up on cheap, Made in China crud. If we want to make an impact, we need to do it at the point of consumption. As in - not! It is easy to outsource our guilt to a few athletes. It is a little more difficult to change our own behaviours.
  97. I.E Marlow from London, United Kingdom writes: Maybe Elvis should skate over to the earthquake zone, instead of kicking a nation of 1.3 billion human beings while they're trying to stand back up again.
  98. Darryl Youzefowich from Izmir, Turkey, writes: Most of the comments on this G and M Olympic/Tibet issue has drawn more heat than light, with no real understanding of each others point of view going on by most posters. I would like to point out to my Chinese Canadian and mainland Chinese friends that, IMO, most commentators defending the Chinese government positions should not bother trying to defend the indefensable - the moral standing of the Chinese government is not exactly their strong point. The reputation of their attitudes, positions, ideas and behaviours has built up from past mistakes (to put it extremely charitably) and it will take time to repair the damage. To argue that that government is not culpable on many issues, such as Darfur, human rights and so on, is a non starter for informed opinion makers, leaders, researchers and readers outside of China, and any commentator that suggests differently to a great extent will not be believed. I guess you could compare it to the challenge of convincing some people that black really is white. It is not an impossible task as Orwell outlines in 1984, but it obviously is a huge waste of everyone's time. While you might try to downplay the seriousness or extent of whatever thing the government is being accused of, and that is legit, but the overall pattern has been established and so it up to the government to change people's beliefs with right action. Continued denial is useless in the long run and just makes you look like a fool. China, and the people who care for that nation, would better be served by admitting in a humble way that they have gotten some things wrong (like everyone else in human history) and concentrate on getting things better in the present. Concentrating on the present, rather than waste time on fighting the uncontrollable (like past history), would alliviate a lot of suffering and wasted energy. I think I am not only talking to you, but mainly myself as well! I admit that I am not perfect, neither is Canada or any other nation.
  99. L M87 from Calgary, Canada writes: Ouch, these young people have been training all their life for this. Putting career and life on hold to fulfill a dream, many just barely making ends meet during the process. Now, just few months away from fulfilling that dream, we're telling these people to 'take the high road' and not go.
  100. Charles Mitz from Canada writes: Shouldn't the boycott advocates be pushing for us to boycott Vancouver? After all, we've invaded Afghanistan and there is a historical precedent involved
  101. Michael K from Toronto, Canada writes: I was at the Human Rights Torch relay event this afternoon and jogged along the 6 km course. I also saw Mr. Stojko speak. He was calm and spoke with compassion, clarity and dignity. He also looked great and is obviously still in top shape.

    There are a lot of childish, nasty, simple minded comments posted here. Perhaps Mr. Stojko is more intelligent and aware than some here think. After all, China's human rights are front and centre in the news again, as they should be until the Chinese regime stops harming huge numbers of Chinese people.

    I find it very disturbing that many who comment on G&M articles having to do with human rights in China are Chinese who harshly attack anyone who criticizes the Chinese regime. Those who criticize the abuses are not criticizing China the nation or Chinese people. The people speaking out against these abuses are doing so to stand up for your fellow Chinese who are being harshly persecuted. Is this not a good thing? Do you not care about your fellow Chinese who are suffering brutal persecution? Why tell those who are trying to help to basically shut up?

    On the other hand some who criticize here are also sometimes a bit nasty, which helps nothing.

    Mr. Stojko raised a couple of thoughts. The consideration of a boycott and also the athletes speaking out. Of course speaking out means the athletes would have to compete to get that chance. The issues Mr. Stojko raised succeeded in drawing attention to the abuses and also encourage the athletes to speak out. I think it would be best if athletes went but made sure to speak out, definitely speak out against the abuses. This would be a very positive and honourable message from Canada.
  102. L M87 from Calgary, Canada writes: In my opinion, the spirit of sport and competition transcends politics. Let these kids go and have the time of their lives. They deserve it. The political crap will still be there afterward. The increased exposure China receives from the Games does not have to translate into new international business and status. That is what they are aiming for after the games. Maybe we can deal with it then.
  103. Jeff Kelly from Kitchener, Canada writes: Congratulations to Mr. Stojko for taking a stand against the barbarism of the Chinese government. From oppressing their own people and trampling on human rights, to invading neighbouring countries and occupying them (Tibet), to supporting brutal dictatorial regimes (Burma, Sudan), it is a global shame that the Olympics are being held in China. This backwards and primitive regime should be boycotted and good on Elvis Stojko for articulating this for athletes.
  104. Babbleon ! from Sarnia, Canada writes: Why is this goof making the news?
  105. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: The fact is Elvis Stojko,is not a contender for these Olympics.
    If he were,I doubt as an Athlete,his stance would be the same,after years of hard work,striving for a chance at a meda,and world renowned historical standing..
    These games are about athletic ability,not politics.
    And Stojko is now particicipating in political views,as he knows his days of competion have ended.
    Cheap shots,to others with great capabilities,hopes and dreams,like he once had.
    It stinks.
    Be quiet Elvis,you may have had your day,but others are still working and dreaming for theirs.
    No matter what Country happens to be the host.
  106. Alastair james Berry from Nanaimo BC CANADA, Canada writes:
    SOUR GRAPES I reckon!

    Where's his sporting instinct??

    Gives Canada a bad rap..............
  107. Just a Guy from Canada writes: Who cares what Elvis has to say? Plus, he says people should know what's going on....when was the last time he lived in China?
  108. Charles MacDonald from Toronto, Canada writes: Olympic champion joins Ontario's Champion of freedon, justice and democracy Randy Hillier MPP.
    I wonder how Minister Michael Chan will spin his fabricated web of lies on Elvis.
  109. Kevin Zhang from Waterloo, Canada writes: I laugh at you Canadians who think you're doing the right thing by 'Standing up to the barbarian rule of the Chinese Government', to help those who are 'brutally persecuted by the Chinese Government'. Do you people ever listen to yourselves when you talk? Or ever tried to look at the situation without the influence of the Western Media? Here's a very simple way of putting it that even your puny brains can understand:

    If the Chinese aren't complaining, why are you?

    People who posted here defending the Chinese are living in Canada, so don't pull that 'it's because of the oppressive communist regime' crap on me.

    It disgusts me that people like Elvis Stojko is destroying the Spirit of Olympics by using it as a tool of political influence. Competitive Sports is one thing, Politics is another thing, don't mix the two together.
  110. skenderbeg begger from Albania writes: Jeff Kelly from Kitchener, Canada writes: Congratulations to Mr. Stojko for taking a stand against the barbarism of the Chinese government. From oppressing their own people and trampling on human rights, to invading neighbouring countries and occupying them (Tibet),......
    well, beeing from slovenian origin which are known as pro nazi supporters of austrian regime in their past,his comment is not surprising....
  111. Jeff Kelly from Kitchener, Canada writes: Kevin Zhang, you are upset at the abuses you ascribe to Falun Gong. Are you equally upset by the massive human rights abuses of the Chinese government? When it murders its citizens, or locks them up indefinitely, do you get that angry? Or is it more of a selective, nationalistic ferver?
  112. Li Cha Dah from la la lannd, Canada writes: W_UP 2008 from Canada from Canada writes: Li Cha Dah from la la land, Canada writes: Seals are not domesticated. ?????? so if I step on a wild dog/puppy or wild cat/kitten its ok with you but 'don't touch my domesticated animals'???? I think you are right: focus on the human rights issue.
  113. Rick Cheung from Canada writes: As I have mentioned above, most people have forgotten and don't know Elvis Who this guy is, people do stupid things without thinking twice just to catch some eyeballs for whatever damn reason.

    Elvis Who don't care what he is talking about, but he will be happy because we are now all talking about him and he is under the spotlight again.

    And all these negative posts against China and Chinese people are from the same couple of full time paid posters on the forum. They use multiple fake identities. Simple as it ... ignore these garbage and stupid idiots.

    Boycotting the Olympics will only be loss of Canada and Canadian athletes.
  114. skenderbeg begger from Albania writes: How racism has invaded Canada

    What is the term 'brown-skinned' doing on the front page of a major Canadian daily?

    By Robert Fisk - 10 June 2006

    http://news.independent.co.uk/world/fisk/article754394.ece

    http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article13575.htm
  115. Pelotas Piquen from Dildo NF., Canada writes: My 2 Cents says 'Easiest cop out in the world....to say you would do something, when in fact, you aren't even faced with the decision.' Exactly! And it would be the same for any politician to say the same thing.

    If any private citizen (ie. those posting comments) feels strongly about boycotting China... don't buy any products made there or shop at any stores that sell products made there.

    If any MP feels we should boycott the Olympics, please stand up in the house of commons and call for a full economic boycott : cut off all trade!

    If all you can say is 'let's boycott the Olympics' it's time for you grow a pair!
  116. Michael K from Toronto, Canada writes: Kevin Zhang, your comments are not in the least accurate.

    They are however completely echoing the Chinese regime's propaganda against Falun Gong, which if you grew up in China, you saw on the state controlled media constantly.

    The Chinese regime always demonizes groups that it targets. It calls the Dalai Lama a 'devil' and 'wolf' and other ridiculous things. It reported that the 'armed' students had opened fire on 'unarmed' soldiers in Tiananmen Square during the 1989 massacre of students. Lies, lies, lies.

    Falun Gong has been practised all over the world for well over a decade. Why have none of the absurd things you've listed not happened anywhere else? Why do these outrageous things you claim only happen in China as reported by China's state media?

    There are large numbers of Falun Gong practitioners with advanced educational degrees outside China (masters, PhDs), both Chinese who cannot return to China and Westerners. They have jobs and families and contribute positively to the community in many ways. What you are spouting is propaganda against a group of people that is currently being brutally persecuted while you additionally attack them in a country that allows freedom of speech.
  117. M. U. from Canada writes: I am so sick of the pathetic posturing by some dim-witted celebrities trying to be smart asses in scoring political point. It is pathetic because they are only smart enough to do what they are good at, either in sport or in acting, but they pretend to be knowledgeable about things that they have absolutely idea what they are talking about.

    Stojko just made a fool of himself.
  118. James McCormick from Canada writes: Jeff Kelly: Kevin Zhang, you are upset at the abuses you ascribe to Falun Gong. Are you equally upset by the massive human rights abuses of the Chinese government? When it murders its citizens, or locks them up indefinitely, do you get that angry? Or is it more of a selective, nationalistic ferver?

    Where's your source Jeff? The media? Go do some research, the whole anti-Chinese biases have been overblown.

    With this issue as with many other, it's better to be ignorant than misinformed. It's the lesser of two evil.

    Unfortunately most posters here has chosen the latter.
  119. James McCormick from Canada writes: Michael K, are you not echoing the propaganda by the Western media? Such a hypocrite.

    Why don't you crawl back behind the rock and stay ignorant? Misinformation is clearly making you look like an idiot.
  120. Go Figure from Mississauga, Canada writes: LMAO, he just doesn't want any Canadian athlete to get medals in Olympic, so he could always brag he got two 24k SILVER medals.
  121. Stewart Mawdsley from Canada writes: Um, Dani Ho, Elvis won his first world title in JAPAN. Not China, the world championships have never been held there.

    regardless, I don't think this should be a top story. And it is easy for Stojko to say something like this when he has already had his chance to compete, I doubt he'd be singing the same tune 14 years ago.
  122. Frank Lee from Calgary, Canada writes: When Chinese government is working around clock in organizing rescue efforts, arranging accommodation, food and water supplies to millions homeless, preventing aftershock disasters, planning rebuilding the area, this guy just sitting back, shouting human rights, and pointing his fingers. Does he really care of Chinese wellbeing, or just a self-serving to pretend to be moral superior?
  123. Emilio Garazgos from Kanata, Canada writes: No reason for anyone to get their knickers in a knot.
    Elvis is free to say whatever he wants.

    But seriously, who is going to give any weight to the opinions of a has-been figure skater ?

    What has Elvis done since his 'retirement' from Olympic competition that would give his opinions on global affairs any sort of credulity ?

    And really, how much of an impact would there be if Canadian athletes didn't show up in Beijing?

    Would anyone other than Canadians and Chinese consular officials in Canada notice ?

    The fact is, China is emerging as the major global power of the future.

    Canada is a minor entity that has been and will remain a hewer of wood and hauler of water (ie a resource provider) who vies to be on China's dance card.

    The only thing that Canada would accomplish by snubbing China and her 2008 coming out party, is a strike-off from the Good Friends List on which it currently enjoys a very enviable status.

    China's 'human rights abuses' that so offend Western sensibilities need to be viewed from the context of having to break a few eggs to make an omelette -- a necessary evil given the circumstances.

    Any sort of understanding of China's history in the 20th C. prior to 1948 would make this fact obvious.
  124. M. U. from Canada writes: Michael K from Toronto, Canada writes: .... I find it very disturbing that many who comment on G&M articles having to do with human rights in China are Chinese who harshly attack anyone who criticizes the Chinese regime. Those who criticize the abuses are not criticizing China the nation or Chinese people. The people speaking out against these abuses are doing so to stand up for your fellow Chinese who are being harshly persecuted. Is this not a good thing? Do you not care about your fellow Chinese who are suffering brutal persecution? Why tell those who are trying to help to basically shut up?
    *************
    Please allow me to enlighten you, Michael K, so that you wouldn't be unnecessarily disturbed any more. The Chinese Canadians are not attacking people like you, they are merely presenting facts about China that they know well. They are simply trying to point out that the allegation, such as yours, that China is as a bad human right abuser, is nothing but propaganda and simply not true. China is not a perfect country, but it has achieved some extraordinary changes within the past 30 years that hasn't been seen through its extended 5000 years history. And it is only getting better and better. The Chinese Canadians do know better. They know about their home country, and they also know about the West. It is people like Stojko and yourself, who are in the dark. You should really learn something about this new rising China, so one day you won't be unnecessarily either too surprised and too disturbed again.

    By the way, I don't think your condescending mentality and misinformed attitude are helpful to anybody at all. Thank you very much.