Tibetan Antelopes

Re “Heroes of China’s Wasteland,” Aug. 29: It is not surprising that China’s human rights issues extend to animal life as well. In Tibet, once a peaceful country whose political, spiritual and cultural foundation rested upon respect for all Earth’s creatures, Tibetans now must risk their lives to protect the endangered Tibetan antelope from torture. The antelopes are slaughtered to satisfy the fashion whims of the West while illegally padding the pockets of poachers.

The West can help protect the Tibetan antelope and support the Yemaoniu Dui by not purchasing shahtoosh scarves and shawls imported from China.

DEE ANNA S. BEHLE

Placentia

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On Page A11 on Aug. 29, I found a short article describing how Chinese Christians had been jailed and their U.S.-citizen counterparts deported. In the same issue the plight of the antelopes in Tibet was detailed in a long article, complete with pictures and maps.

While I sympathize with the dilemma faced by the antelopes and the concern shown by the Chinese government, it’s unfortunate that a news story about animals is deemed more worthy than the arrest of more than 50 Christians who are merely practicing their faith.

As we confer most-favored-nation status on China, the U.S. should take seriously the human rights abuses that continue to be perpetuated by the Chinese government, and The Times should consider spending more time and investigative energy on the problems faced by the Chinese people and less on Chinese animals.

CLARYCE AULL

Ontario