Next Wednesday, the Olympic Torch touches down in San Francisco for a quick sojourn around the Bay area.
But, crowds lining the streets may be less than welcoming.
Thousands of activists critical of the Olympic host are expected to protest in the wake of the recent outbreak of violence in Tibet, for instance.
The Chinese Government has shrugged off the implications, asserting that the demonstrations are merely the actions of a few who are trying to hijack a historical event, to meet their own agendas.
Mayor Gavin Newsom was initially inclined to conceal the route the Eternal Torch would traverse to thwart the protesters' efforts - and ultimately - avoid embarrassment to San Francisco residents.
But, amid an outcry, he finally relented.
The second-term Mayor has called the opportunity to host the relay an extraordinary honor, adding with emphasis that,
"The flame is about sports, not politics."
However, Mr. Newsom is missing the point.
If China hankers to participate in the Global Community, she must observe the rules of polite society.
Until the Human Rights Violations stop in Tibet, protesters should rise up and take every available opportunity to throw a spotlight on the atrocities, until they cease.
Desiderius Erasmus once opined,
"He who allows oppression shares the crime."
