Chinese Students Protest in Beijing
The article by Jim Mann on the reluctance of the Bush Administration to support the Chinese students’ movement in Beijing (“Bush Plans to Deal With Crisis in China Gingerly and at Arm’s Length,” Part I, May 21) I think clearly demonstrates the lack of world leadership provided by his Administration.
The Chinese people are strongly, yet respectfully, calling for sweeping changes in Beijing--a model demonstration for change bringing worldwide support from other democracies. Yet the model of democracy, the United States, stands silent as our leaders, like timid gamblers, want to wait to see who wins before they place their bets.
This wait-and-see policy is typical of our prudent President, but it may take the steam out of the Chinese people, who may not need arms, but rather strong idealistic support from the United States to successfully carry out their brave endeavor.
Congress has taken the reins in this vital, historic occasion with a Senate committee quickly passing a resolution endorsing the Chinese demonstrators’ call for democracy. Meanwhile, Bush Administration officials are looking for just the right saddle for yet another horse that has already left the gates without them.
JEREMY BOWMAN
Irvine
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