Don’t Expect Any Activism from Justine Henin
Justine, you can do more than play tennis. I am somewhat disappointed of Justin Henin’s comments about “not mixing politics and sports.” She is just lucky to be from Belgium, a prosperous democratic country, with a great human rights record, which shares borders with other developed countries. Why should she even “be bothered” about the other inhabitants of the planet Earth. Too self-centered. Here is a good bed-time reading material for you Justine. Oh, and here is another one. You don’t have to boycott the Olympic Games, but you can at least voice your concern about China’s human rights record.
… Henin yesterday warned Olympic athletes not to buy into debate on China’s human rights record while at the Beijing Games.
“Politics and sport must remain separate,” Henin said.
“We must be focused on our job, which is sport, which is our passion. We all hope to bring joy to the people watching the Games and that is what is important.
“We must bring this passion of sport, if it is to be a success.
“I am, of course, concerned about the politics surrounding the Games, but I am going there to play tennis not play politics.” (Src)
After Atalanta and Women Who Serve are also unhappy about Justin’s comments.
Belgium has asked their athletes to avoid making any statements about the politics surrounding the Olympic games.
Obviously, Justine has not taken advantage of her chances to speak out about women’s rights, especially when it comes to Dubai or Doha, but this might help explain why she’s attempting to keep sport and politics separate regarding Beijing.
Thanks Aaress for the comment. My impression from her comments was that she actually supports her country’s decision.
hi Nina,
I read your comment on Diane’s blog and came over to join in…..I am so much in agreement! Being in the UK I find it dreadful that our athletes have been gagged - and wish one of them would have the courage to speak out about the human and animal rights…..they might lose a medal, but who knows what they might gain; certainly respect, but I’m afraid that doesn’t seem to count for a lot…..
just ‘valuable’ can an Olympic medal be if gained while keeping your mouth shut over such matters?
regards
Claire in Scotland
Thank you for the comment Claire. What especially disappointed me, is that not only Henin is avoiding to speak out about the existing issues, but she actually discourages the others to talk about it.
totally agree with you, Nina;I really do feel that it’s time one of the ‘big names’ made a stand…..have said a wee bit over on my blog at
whoops……posted too soon!
http://craftyweemidden.blogspot.com/
hope to see you there - love your blog and have blogrolled you. Keep up the good work!
Thank you Claire!
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i won’t read your blog anymore.