Hey guys! This is your first current events assignment, due next Monday (A Day) and Tuesday (B Day), October 18-19. For the directions, scroll down to the bottom of the blog.
We are at the moment talking about the relationship between the United States, Cuba, and Spain at the end of the 19th century. During this time, people such as Jose Marti can be viewed as heroes by some and villians by others. Therefore, this news story about a Chinese activist for human rights and democracy brings into question whether he should have gotten the Nobel Peace Prize or not. Please read the article and comment whether you think he should or should not have gotten the prize. Explain your answer in detail and make at least two response (non-consecutive) on the blog by the deadline.
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/10/08/nobel.peace.prize.win/
Enjoy!
I had heard about this recently in Spanish class when talking about dictatorships, and this article gave me a better understanding of the issue. I think it is absolutely crazy that Liu Xiaobo cannot accept his Nobel Peace Prize because he is serving a prison sentence for the exact thing he is being honored. The irony of the situation is undeniable. I can understand how being a dictatorship, the Chinese government would be angered by the announcement of Liu Xiaobo winning the award. They had locked him up for fighting for human rights and freedom of the Chinese people, so it is understandable the government would be against him winning because in their mind as a government run as a dictatorship, what he stood for was against all that was right. Though I understand their point, I disagree with it completely. I feel China should be honored one of their people has been ordered with the award and they should free him from prison so he can personally accept it instead of having his wife accept the prize and make a speech for him. I am proud of all the people who support Liu Xiaobo being nominated and chosen such as President Barack Obama, the Dalai Lama, and American writer Kwame Anthony Appiah (who nominated him for the prize). These high level officials throughout the world who show support help to influence the much needed change in China, which is what Liu Xiaobo is imprisoned for. It just goes to show that fighting for what is right will be honored and is the right thing to do, even if it is not viewed by everyone initially (such as the Chinese government in Liu Xiaobo's situation). Overall, I think it is a wonderful thing that he won and I could not be happier for him and if I could I would wish him all the best in his life to come and wish him a short remainder of his prison sentence.
ReplyDeleteDeanna Carlucci. A 1/2
(So I typed this really amazing post that of course didn’t go threw on Blogspot -__-. I doubt this one will be as great.)
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion the fact that Chinese, human rights activist, Liu Xiaobo is being awarded the Nobel Peace prize is really an amazing thing. It is a shame though that he will not be able to go to the ceremony to receive it, since he is being so unjustly imprisoned for his efforts at peace. I believe it is wrong that the Chinese government has him imprisoned for going against what is “right”, because in my point of view they are the ones who are wrong and unjust. Most countries governments would be ecstatic if one of their one won such an honorable prize, but not China they are enraged and even say that Liu doesn’t deserve it. Though this Prize may bring more problems for Liu, I think that it will bring good as well especially if his support system continues to grow. This could be what frees him and helps his cause at the same time. There aren’t many people like Liu Xiaobo who are brave, daring, and caring enough to fight for the rights of a group of people, and I think this is what sets him apart from others and shows that he does deserve this prize, freedom from prison, and a solution to his cause.
(Sukii)
Suraija Agosto A1/2
I agree with Sukii. It really is uncommon for someone to be as brave and caring as Liu Xiaobo. That kind of devotion to human rights and peace should indeed be honored by the people he has been fighting for and is imprisoned for. This, however; cannot happen because China's government is so corrupt in its dictator ways to allow pride in this honor for Xiaobo. I think it is crazy to think how the people in China cannot even do just what we are doing now (comment on the event on the internet) due to the fact that the government is intercepting and deleting these comments made. This just goes to show how wrong and unfree life is for the people in China and makes me even more proud and in support of what Liu Xiaobo did because he is making a difference in the world. He is obviously having a strong influence on China's government since he got attenntion enough to be locked in prison and the government is going through such strong efforts to stop talk of Xiaobo's recent award. His influence has caused worldwide opinions and efforts to seek change in the way China is run. I feel through this controversy over the Nobel Peace Prize, awareness of what is going on will continue to grow and maybe Liu Xiaobo will finally get his wish granted and China will reform its ways. I truly hope this will happen and there will be a happy ending for Liu Xiabob and China.
ReplyDeleteDeanna Carlucci. A 1/2
It is inevitable that Liu Xiabo does not deserve the eleven term jail sentence in prison. He earned the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize and quite frankly deserves it. It is truly unfortunate that he got punished for calling for principles that China needs, such as democratization and most importantly human rights. I believe it is great for him; he is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in. In this case, he believes in humanitarianism.
ReplyDeleteCheyenne Chmara
I think every citizen in China cares about their human rights because they don't have them! (this is not including those who extremely brainwashed by China's horrible government) I just think these meager citizens are obviously too scared to to stand up for themselves. Liu Xiaobo was just extremely brave and I seriously commend him for that, not that he needs my commendation, but more because people definitely don't have a voice in China.
ReplyDeleteWhat I love most about this article (and what probably most people were not so moved by) is the fact that he says, "Entering the prison you must face these things peacefully, not complain [about] others. I even don't complain [about those] ... who arrested me, because this is their inevitable action." Not many people are at peace the way he is and this is the best part of the whole article for me honestly lol. It goes to show that he really believes in what he stood up for and I'm with him on that one. In China, there is no such thing as human rights and if you would hear about the things they have to do because of how corrupt their government has become and how far they have strayed from morals, you would be so surprised!
Emily Fernandez A 1/2
I agree Chey!That was short sweet and to the point, he does deserve his prize and to be released from prison. I think most of the class will have the same opinion.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Lui Xiabob's imprisonment in China is unjust and completely unfair. He was imprisoned for promoting human rights, which is to better the lives of others. His work was not meant to cause violence, and hopefully it won't. The Nobel Peace Prize is probably one of the most prestigious awards given in the entire world. For Lui Xiabob not to be able to accept his award is a terrible injustice. The Chinese government needs to accept that this is a true honor, for Lui Xiabob and China as a whole. The government needs to take a step forward and realize that change is needed. I hope that Lui Xiabob is released in time to attend the ceremony in December.
ReplyDeleteLoren.Sass
The premis of this controversy is based on opinion. My OPINION is that he deserves the prize because he fights for peace peacefully (without violence or rebellion), regardless of him being incarcerated. However, it gets stickier because some of China's OPINION is, how can a man win the peace prize if he rebels against the government and breaks the law? Because of all these opinions, i tried to find some FACTS. I went online to the Nobel Prize website and found, and quote, "The right to submit proposals for the Nobel Peace Prize shall, by statute, be enjoyed by:
ReplyDelete1. Members of national assemblies and governments of states;
2. Members of international courts;
3. University rectors; professors of social sciences, history, philosophy, law and theology; directors of peace research institutes and foreign policy institutes;
4. Persons who have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize;
5. Board members of organizations who have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize;
6. Active and former members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee; (proposals by members of the Committee to be submitted no later than at the first meeting of the Committee after February 1) and
7. Former advisers appointed by the Norwegian Nobel Institute."
No where does it say he must be approved by ALL government officials of country of origin, so he has every right to win this prize.
Sam Furst
I believe that it is unjust for the Chinese Government to imprison Liu Xiaobo. He is only fighting for human rights and justice for his people. The communist government obviously put him in prision because he is a threat to the socitey that they have created. The government is just plain old scared of people like Xiaobo. The government wants people to only have opinions when it shines a good light on them. The Chinese should be proud of the work Xiaobo was doing for them. All he was trying to do was open there eyes so they could see what the people of China were going through. He is a man the does not deserve jail time but deserves to be walking the streets of China as a FREEMAN with his wife and family.
ReplyDeleteIt's clear that everyone so far clearly feels for Lui Xiabob and his unfair treatment enforced by Chinese Government. Like we've all said, the fact that a man is being imprisoned for standing up and attempting to reform an undeniably corrupt government is unfair and unjust- but what baffled me the most was the fact that this prize might actually cause him to be imprisoned for a longer time. It's most definitely ironic that this prize which usually helps levy a person up in their cause will actually dig Xiabob in a deeper hole. Articles like this make me feel so grateful to live in the country that we do, as well as stupid for taking for granted the little freedoms I have. This man clearly is a well-rounded and strong individual we can all learn something from.-Chelsea Hernandez
ReplyDeletePeriod 3-4 A
Oh wow, that's awesome Sam. Ha! I wish China's officials would read your post.
ReplyDeleteI didn't actually state my opinion on whether or not I think he should have received the Nobel Peace Prize in the first place and of course, everyone can guess what my opinion on the matter is... of course he deserves to win it. It's people like him who deserve a prize like this because, like I said before, no citizens in China really have a voice and the fact that he does is extremely commendable. But of course, we need to remind ourselves that these Chinese officials/heads of authority are blinded by their own maliciousness and desire to rule over people, while they live in luxury of course and have all the rights in the world. They are brainwashed and just see Xiaobo as a threat, like Camila said. I definitely noticed this too. The fact that he has won this prize puts the higher ups in a really tight spot.
I primarily agree with Chelsea, it is very ironic that this event dug Xiaobo into a deeper trench. However, he certainly deserved to win the Nobel Peace Prize out of any other opponent to recieve the prestigious honour and award.
ReplyDeleteI hope the best for Xiaobo and his wife. They deserve to celebrate the honor the are clearly entitled to-not feel remorse over the burder the Chinese government has blown up the situation into.
Cheyenne Chmara
I agree with Sam Furst. The Chinese government had absolutely no right to imprison Xiaobab, and they have no right to restrict him from accepting this award. The irony is completely undeniable, as Chelsea said, and it honestly makes no sense whatsoever.
ReplyDeleteLoren Sass
I think that is unfair to imprison Liu Xiabob for fighting for human rights in a peaceful way. He is not harming anyone or causing a violent rebellion. I do understand though why the chinese government would sentence him to jail longer though and it is very unfortunate. They see him as a threat to their government where they control what the public can and cannot view, trying to make them think the way they want them to and make them unaware of how life could be different of them. Hopefully with Liu Xiabob getting the prize, more people will get the strength to stand up for their rights as well and force the government to change their ways
ReplyDelete-Julia Hodczak, Period#1-2 A
I think that it is great that Liu Xiaobo was chosen to be honored with the Nobel Peace Prize this year. He acted for his country and for the better good and this demonstrates his reward. Although it is unfortunate that his own country, China, doesn't feel the same way about his actions. It really interests me that one country, such as China, can see his doings and punish him for it while America and other nations see it as an act of kindness and for the greater good of human rights and want to acknowledge it. Therefore, I strongly believe that China should let him free and allow him to accept his earned prize.
ReplyDeleteI also see the connection between this situation and the Spanish-American War regarding Cuba. How can the Spanish take so much control over the Cuban people when they are striving for their own independence? Just like China is keeping Liu Xiabob from his independence. LET HIM GO!!!
Ahhh! that was me! (Samantha Krupa!)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteAs Sam stated, i to agree that Liu Xiabob should obtain his prize. The Nobel Peace prize is something to award the achievements of people in literature, medicine or physiology, chemistry, physics, and peace. Even though he is going against the strict laws of the China Democracy, he is coming about it in a peaceful way and should not be penilized for that.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing i read in the New York Times article "Nobel Peace Prize to Activist Poses a Challenge to China's Rejection of Democracy", it mentioned that some of the leaders may have been acting this way towards Xiaobo because the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to him by a Norwegian panel. This made the Chinese officials, and their supporters, think it was a way of imposing western values into the Chinese culture. Personally, I think that is ridiculous. All Xiaobo is doing is fighting for human rights and freedom of the chinese people in a peacefully manner. With all certianty, i belive Liu Xiaobo is being unfairly punished, for something that is right.
Like Deanna, I first heard about this issue when talking about dictatorships in Spanish class. I found it completely ridiculous that a man can win a Nobel Peace Prize, but also go to jail for the same thing. The Nobel Peace Prize is worldwide. Seeing this Nobel Peace Prize, the Chinese government should take a hint that what Liu Xiabob is arguing for is what most of the world believes is right.
ReplyDeleteI strongly believe that Liu Xiabob completely deserves this Nobel Peace Prize. Not only is he standing up for the rights of an entire country, but he found a way to do it peacefully. In our world today you don't see many arguments end without bloodshed. Liu Xiabob is standing up for what he believes in in the most civil way possible, and he should be rewarded for that.
I believe that Liu Xiaobo was rightuflly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to promote human rights. It does not matter that he is in jail because his arrest has nothing to do with the fact he promotes nonviolent ways to get better human rights. Also, if many former Nobel Peace Prize winners like the renounded Desmond Tutu or the Dalai Lama believe that he desereved the prize and deserves to be taken out of prison, he should be respected and let go and rightfully accept the prize.
ReplyDeleteMadison Riley
In my opinion, I believe that Liu Xiaobo deserved the right to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. No matter what others thought, he stood up for what he believed was right. China does not let their people have freedom at all and Liu is letting everyone know that it is not right. As one person begins a bold statement, it can spread like wildfire, especially if others agree. Even though Norway knew that China would disagree to their award, they did not let it stop them from doing what is right either. Liu deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for this bravery and unselfishness. I agree, what Liu has done is a very unique situation that deserves recognition. Winning the Nobel Peace Prize actually helps Liu spread his word so that people are more aware of what is going on in China. If one man has the bravery to stand up for his rights in his own country, why should anyone else be afraid to support him? Although it might anger those in China which could possibly extend Liu's sentence in jail, it might actually open up their eyes. People in other countries are disagreeing with them (China), so they should soon see that they are out-numbered and it will hopefully start a new chain reaction of change.
ReplyDeleteLeah Estillero
I agree with Leah. Liu winning the Nobel Peace Prize will make people more aware of what is going on in China. If more people stand up for what they believe in, they will have no choice but to do something about it. Sitting there silent does not do anything for the cause. More people need to start saying something and show that what China's government is doing by censoring what the public sees is not okay. Everyone deserves human rights and to have their say in government and over choices in general.
ReplyDeleteLiu Xiaobo's fight for human rights is a perfect role model for the phrase, "Stand up for what is right even if that means you are standing alone." Xiaobo is strongly against the way of rule in China and with out a doubt supports his belief with tangible evidence. Clearly, Xiaobo is fighting to make an improvement for China (who in my opinion should really open their eyes to what Liu is saying.) He is doing it peacefully, with out violence and the fact that he is now in jail for eleven years is absolutely absurd to me. Him winning the Nobel Peace Prize is well deserved. Though understandable as to why the Chinese Government is not pleased by it, it personally blows my mind as to the consequences he is dealing with for trying to make his belief more than just a belief. Hopefully Xiaobo's winning will raise awareness to the unfair dictatorship in China and inspire individuals to be as bold as Xiaobo is!
ReplyDeleteI think we should change the "Free Weezy" shirts to "Free Xiaobo" ;)
-Coley Shuron
In my opinion, i believe that Liu Xiaobo deserves to get the Nobel Piece Prize. It's sad that China is treating this man wrongly for him going with what's right. So many people can't stand to hear the truth, and this article is a perfect example. Liu is fighting for human rights and is standing for what is true. Him being inprisioned for standing for what's right is out-right wrong and unacceptable. To be honest, there needs to be more people who aren't afraid to stand up for what's right. It's sad that Liu can't even be released to accept his award. China should really be ashamed.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with Bria and Coley. The fact that Liu Xiaobo can't even accept his award is heartbreaking. He is standing up for what is right and speaking out for what he believes in. Liu is trying to raise awareness about an issue that needs to be resolved. The Chinese government is oppressing its people. Liu Xiaobo is trying to bring light to this prominent subject that needs to be addressed. Eleven years in jail is a bit much for someone who is working to better the lives of many people. He fully deserves this Nobel Peace Prize. The Chinese government seriously needs to rethink how their country functions.
ReplyDeleteAs much as I agree with all my classmates, there is one thing i am taking into consideration. I think putting Liu Xiaobo in jail might be contradicting it's purpose. It was supposed to punish him for speaking out against the government, and attracting attention. HOWEVER, by putting him in jail, it is dragging much more attention than if he was a free man. For example, i doubt mr mazur would have us write about this current event if he was just a plain man winning a nobel peace prize ( a little irony but whatever). I think that by letting him go, it will detract unwanted attention from the government and let the deserving man win his award the proper way!
ReplyDeletesam furst
p.d 3-4 A
I totally understand what you're saying Sam. Lui Xiaobo was jailed for speaking out against the government while other nations found it inspiring and obviously Nobel Peace Prize worthy. This prize is world wide and all countries should abide by it respectfully. China is definitely not a free country, which resulted in Lui's jail sentence. And it surely creates controversy that he won the peace prize because it might make his sentence even longer.
ReplyDeleteI must say, I admire Lui's dedication and loyalty to his beliefs. He is a real trooper and I believe the Chinese people should recognize this and follow his example and to speak up!
But as a final note.. China should release him and let him claim his prize!
Samantha Krupa
welll guys, according to the Germanic Heroic Code..... jk!
ReplyDeleteBut I did research a little more on Xiaobo and found an article (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6967856.ece) that says how Xiaobo remained silent in court regardless of the fact he had a speech prepared due to the fact that the time alloted for him to speak was no where close to long enough. The officials have also restricted communication between him and his wife allowing him to only speak to her ten minutes after the trial and wouldn't even allow her entry to the courtroom during the trial, only during the reading of the verdict.
Not only has China silenced Xiaobo's political views but also have violated his rights as a person. Its disgusting to me that this is allowed and am so completly for Liu Xiaobo winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
So i think its safe to say i agree with... everyone! haaa:)
-Coley
I always love people like Xiabo. Standing against your goverment is not always a bad thing. I love how he has such strong beliefs and had the courage to stand up for them. The chinese government should really ease up (but that's just me). He deserves with out a doubt the nobel peace prize for being such a courageous and strong person.
ReplyDelete-Tiffany Medina
wow, i can't believe that someone who won the nobel peace prize is being sent to jail! i do, however, still thinks he deserves the prize, though. No one can be 100% perfect, and I know that whatever he did to win the prize had to be extradordinary and everyone is entitled to a slip up, it just is unfortunate that his landed him in jail.
ReplyDelete-Tamara I
I definitely agree with Coley, Bria, and everyone who believes that Liu's eleven year sentence is outrageous. However, looking at it from a "China" point of view, it's understandable why they acted in the way they did. I'm not saying that it was necessarily "right" in the eyes of the majority of the population, but look at it this way - If you had a government that was run in a specific way for a billion years and it was working for you, then suddenly one man is causing commotion that is effecting the ideas of others (which they don't want), what other choice does one have than to lock him away making him silent and hope the whole thing blows over. China is protecting themselves from everyone breaking out into chaos. Although their actions did the total opposite and caused a whole bunch of people to speak out on their opinions, they did what they believed was right as well. I personally do not agree with China's government and how they are oppressing their own people. However, I don't think that if people come together to bash China and try to take them down, it's not gonna go anywhere. You cannot fight fire with fire. Although Liu's situation is unfortunate, he accomplished what he wanted. He got his voice heard by millions in a non-violent fashion, which affected many who will try to help Liu. I'm glad he got the Nobel Peace Prize, if only he could've been there to accept it; that would've been nice. :)
ReplyDeleteLeah Estillero
ReplyDelete(I forgot to post this is the post right before this - just because there are two Leahs.)
His Jail sentence is outrages! He is however wonderful. To go about standing up for the rights he should have in the first place peacefully. You don't see that to often anymore. If he's not released early, or released at all, it's bad publicity for the Chinese government.
ReplyDelete-Tiffany Medina
Yea, I'm surprised they didn't temporarily release him from jail so he could recieve his prize. Hopefully as the peace prize winner he can try to make a change in government!
ReplyDelete-Tamara I.
I think that it was a very good decision to make the chinese activist the Nobel winner.if someone deserves to win they should win regardless of the opinion their respective country has about them. For someone to nonviolently call for reform in China is a big achievement and should be treated as such. I'm also impressed that the Nobel committee didn't shy away from giving the prize to him. They undoubtably got all kinds of diplomatic backlash from China yet held strong in their decision. That's probably what's so impressive about the whole story.
ReplyDeleteWil apicella
I'm completely shocked at what Coley found out about Liu Xiaobo. The fact that his wife couldn't even be with him during the trial is absoulutely ridiculous. After all that he went through and is still going through, I believe even stronger that he derseved this award. So, basically I agree with everyone :)
ReplyDeleteMadison Riley
I agree with Leah (Estillero). In reading the article, I did not look from China's point of view, but what Leah said is completely true! (WOW that rhymed! :D haha ) If a country has been run a certain way for soooooo many years and it's been working out completely fine, why would you want to make any changes? As Americans we see things differently than other countries, but it so happened that someone from another country sees things the way we do. Therefore, this led him to stand for what he believed was right. Inprisonment is what China saw fit to keep him away and to prevent from any controversies occuring. I believe that if the Chinese government wasn't so strict, they would have taken Liu's thoughts and ideas into consideration thus not needing to inprison him.
ReplyDelete-Bria S.
I pretty much agree what everyone else has said, in regards to that he did deserve that prize and should not be jailed for something as incredible as what he does/did. But, there are always two sides to every story (can I please sound more corny) and from China's point of view, from their beliefs and laws, it was not right and, while I totally agree that Liu's jail sentence is unnecessary and he should be let out, is completely reasonable. China is its own country and its own rules/laws, and they do not need to listen to anyone outside of their borders, no matter what prize is awarded to any of their citizens, jailed or not.
ReplyDeleteDespite what China thinks, I think Liu is incredible and his jail sentence, in my opinion, needs to be cut short. In no way does he deserve being in jail for speaking out what he believes in. But to each his own.
~Athena Chiu
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both sides of the argument. I agree that Mr. Liu Xiaobo sentence of eleven years in jail is unfathomable. After reading this article I research the constitution of China. In the Chinese constitution it states in Article 35: Freedom of speech, press, assembly,
ReplyDelete"Citizens of the People's Republic of China enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession and of demonstration." By sentencing Xiabo to jail The Chinese government not only took outrageous actions in us, as Americans point of view, but also unconstitutional. By
Co-writing chapter 08 he was not performing any illegal actions, Xiabo was simply exercising his freedom of speech. However Leah, and Bria made a good point the country has been operating the same way for many years, and it has been successful thus far, so why change it? Regarding whether or not Xiabo deserves a noble peace prize, I do not agree with most people, while I do believe that what Xiabo did was an amazing act that will have an impact of China, I do not feel he deserves to be awarded this prize. The purpose of the prize is to be awarded to a person who worked for "preservation of peace". What Xiabo wrote was a step that could possibly in the future lead to peace but at the moment it has only sparked negative feelings towards the Chinese government. Though in the future this action could lead to peace at the moment I feel the action has not achieve peace yet, and is not yet worthy of a Noble Peace Prize.
yea i completely agree. I could understand why China would be sort of disrespected because they are going against what he did. But as a WHOL, it wasn't just an effect on China. This is a worldly thing. He spoke out on something that was sooooooooo critical and sooo intense because freedom and rights are something a lot of people don't have. for me, it wasn't JUST for the freedom of Chinese people, it was for everyone else who DOESNT have that sense of freedom. so although he was imprisoned, i feel that it still touched a lot of people. think about it: Mart Lunther King faced time for speaking out against something he felt was morally wrong. Malcolm X, same thing. Rosa Parks, same thing. The list goes on and on...so yes, it isn't fair that he is in jail for doing something right, but look at the effect that it may have on a lot of different people. not just the chinese people. but he definitely deserved to win the award!
ReplyDeleteI totally agree the similarities between Liu Xiaobo and all of those who were advocates for freedom are indisputable. Xiaobo did go to jail fighting for what he thought was right. However I still stand by what I said regarding whether or not he is deserving of this award, I do not believe that him co-writing this one document alone really makes him deserving of the award. Also, the Chinese government has every right to be angry about it and take action, whether I agree with the actions they took is not relevant they are protecting their country in the best way they feel they can. Though I do not think sending Xiaobo to jail was the right move.
ReplyDeleteJamaiicanph0enix (sorry I don't know who that quite is) has hit a huge point. The fact that he was imprisoned is speaking much louder than words. Though he was undeserving for the imprisonment, this selfless act alone is such a brave way to stand for something one believes in. Like jamaiicanph0enix said, he probably touched many people. This man acted on behalf of a group of people who don't and aren't allowed to have a voice. Any person who does something like that is well deserving of an award.
ReplyDelete-Chelsea Hernandez
After reading this article on Mr. Liu Xiaobo's nomination as well as winning of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize, it touched me quite a bit to know that he, of all possible nominatees was awarded this most prestigious award. In all honesty, Liu is the most qualified, active, and visionary example of a true nobel prize winner. In addition, I would like to include that his nominators took the right action in electing Liu for this massive achievement; obviously, he was the best choice for the prize. It makes me ecstatic knowing that Mr. Liu attained such a feat due to all of his activism and passion towards his movement for humans rights and democracy, especially, because he had been fighting for said items in China, which is a country who strictly upholds and enforces very radically contrasting ideals and beliefs. Furthermore, as many of the individuals circling around this article, one desperately hopes that our new Nobel prize winner be released from his vile prison entrapment within China. He was sentenced at first for broadcasting his humanitarian and democratic views openly within the Chinese boundaries, where it is more than common for someone to be penalized and/or arrested for expressing such views inside the country. This proves to be a true testament to Liu's passionate fight. In fact, as explained in the article, he knew himself that if he ever made such a commotion, he would be instantaneously thrown into jail. Mr. Liu was the best choice for this award and one can say that he has provided a very sufficient example of what it means to be a "martyr," or one who dies (or suffers extreme consequences) for his own faith, beliefs, and/or views.
ReplyDelete~~~ Monsieur Ryan Kiel ~~~
$$$ Period 1-2 B $$$
All those who think that Liu Xiaobo didn't deserve to win the Nobel Peace Prize most likely think that he is a villan who is being wrongly awarded. However, others may think that Xiaobo is a dedicated activist who was unjustifiably jailed and deserves to win the prize. Xiaoba not only deserves the Nobel Peace Prize, but he should also be released from the prison that he shouldn't have been in in the first place. Xiaoba was imprisioned for speaking his mind and trying to make positive changes to his country, China. Most people in China lack the deserved human rights that we have here in America, and Xiaoba was just trying to give those rights to his people. Xiaoba should not be made to serve the rest of his 11 year sentence, but instead be immeadetly freed. He deserves that and much more from the goverment that wrongly incarcerated him.
ReplyDelete- Na'im Shaw
I am so upset to hear how a great man is doing a great thing but cannot get out of jail! First of all Lui Xaiobo is sentenced for an 11 year jail term for speaking his beliefs in what china can become in the future. People in China need human rights so they may protect themselves and express their minds without the thought of being persecuted. What is even more sad is that this great man is rewarded the Noble peace prize and his wife has to celebrate alone at home while her almost victorious husband is sitting in a jail cell. His lawyer Shang Baojun was not sure if he should have been excited or sad about Liu winning the prize. He says "I hope that he'd be released earlier because of the prize, but in reality, that will not happen." This reminds me of Martin Luther King's struggle for freedom all we can do now is hope, wait, and pray that Liu Xiaobo gets justice! Reading this article makes me grateful to live in a blessed country like America.
ReplyDelete- Aaron McCombs-
B 3.4
i agree with aaron, it is most certainly unjust in every way shape and form. it is a sad reality that people are punished for doing something that so many wish they had the guts to do. the first thing i though of when i read this was the event with Martin Luther King. it really shows you how unfair life can be. but it's all done for the greater good in the end. and who knows? it may spark the fire in someone else to stand up and speak out and pretty soon everyone will have a voice without having to fear the consequences.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Ryan Liu is the most qualified for the nomination. He is serving time for believing in what is right for China to become a more successful Nation. I also agree with Jasmine, this will definitely start a chain reaction for others in China like Liu to stand for what is right no matter the cost. Even though you may be persecuted the whole nation understands you are not at fault for having a right mindset
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that Liu Xiaobo deserves to win the Noble Peace Prize! People all throughout history have stood up for what they believed in and have been thought of as heroes in their specific time period. Just because Liu is in prison does not mean that he shouldn't accept the honor. He is a peaceful fighter, honorable human and a strong believer. People across the world think Xiaobo to be the ultimate winner. He stands up for human rights and believes that the government and our society as a whole should reform for the better! I understand that China thinks it an outrage that a "criminal" won the prize. It goes against everything that the Peace Prize symbolizes. Yet, he is only considered a "criminal" in their eyes. In the article, it says that Liu was imprisoned for "subversion of state power." Subversion, by definition on Google, is the "overthrow" of "structures of authority." I cannot believe that he was "overthrowing" the government of China, only trying with all his might to make it better. In addition, it is complete nonsense that the Chinese government censored Twitter and blacked out certain news stations. Prohibiting individuals from expressing their views is exactly one of the causes that Xiaobo was fighting against! Why shouldn't every person be able to tell the world how they feel about a subject? Human rights are a must in society and limiting will only make people rebel more. For instance, in Cuba, before the Spanish-American War, the Spanish limited the rights of the native Cubans. Not only did that oppression lead to a Cuban uprising but the United States got involved and cost Spain everything they thought valuable. By pushing humans down, you are only forcing them to rise up.
ReplyDeleteHeather Ullery
I agree with Leah that even though it might increase his jail sentence, it is still a good thing that Xiaoba won the Nobel Peace Prize. Also, I too hope that Xiaoba's beliefs "spread like wild fire" and others discover a need to reform human rights in China and other places. Hopefully, Xiaoba winning the Nobel Peace Prize is just the first step to people helping out each other.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Loren. The government in China needs to change and it is extremely unjust and unfair that Liu has to serve an 11 year sentence because of honorable causes. It is also understandable, coming from the China side, that he must serve the sentence, though. According to the Chinese government, promoting different values and rights goes against authority and is punishable. Similar laws are in America, although they are not as strict. To us, the sentence is intolerable and crazy but to the leaders of China, it is another prisoner who disobeyed the laws (however unjust). I agree that the government needs to reform, but until fighters just as brave as Liu step forward, nothing will happen.
ReplyDeleteHeather Ullery
I was extremely intimidated when i first looked at the article. I didn't understand the names or really what they were trying to get across. So, I read it again but took notes this time so that I could look back and be able to piece it together; just a little heads up for anyone in the future. This article makes me think honestly, of where America was a hundred or so years ago, when the people that spoke out for what they believed in were the ones who were punished. Upon hearing this, it made me think of all of the people in our own country who have pointed out the flaws of society that everyone else is too scared to acknowledge. I do believe that there is a connection between human rights and peace as someone from the Norwegian Nobel Committee stated. The reason there is not peace, in my opinion, is because we do not share rights with others such as the right to voice their opinion, or the right to believe in whatever it is that they choose to believe in. I do believe much unhappiness and fighting comes from feeling as if you do not have rights; as if you are not equal. What i thought was interesting was the whole Twitter bit. Because this is a problem that we have had in the United States a few hundred years ago when we did not have technology, it is almost showing what it would have been like if a woman had been texting during the Seneca Falls convention or something like that. It puts a different spin on it. And i think the fact that we have technology the way we do now, definitely allows people to share their opinions and beliefs so much faster and so much more efficiently. The chinese government is aware of this. That is why they block things that go against them so that the majority of the population will be left in ignorance. This has been done many times in history; those in power would try to keep their people ignorant so that they could continue to treat them however they saw fit but people always find a way of combating what is unjust. I believe in Liu Xiabo's cause and I am very happy that he saw all of this, and did not remain quiet as is the easiest thing to do when you are afraid of standing alone.
ReplyDeleteThis is just ridiculously unfair. First, I don't think Liu should've even went to prison anyway. But since that's their rules, they have to be enforced. And even if he did have to go to prison, why for so long? 11 years is way too long and i doubt Liu won't learn anything because no matter what anyone says or does, everyone is still going to have their own opinion on what they feel is right or wrong. The Nobel Peace Prize shouldn't make his sentence any longer than it already is. 11 years is too long already, and because he won an award he can be punished more? Nonsense. His wife shouldn't have to go to the prison he's in to tell him the good news because it won't change the fact that he's still incarcerated. I'm sure he'd be happy to know that him going to jail was (for lack of a better word/phrase) "worth it", but he shouldn't be incarcerated for simply stating his opinion on what he feels is right and wrong.
ReplyDelete- Jada S Nims
Jay, They are trying to punish him more because of the fact that his message is getting out there and because it is effective. If he were a man that no one listened to, they never would have put him into prison in the first place. But look how much attention he is drawing right now? Like even us, who have nothing to do with it, are talking about it. And that is what the Chinese government fears. If they make his sentence longer, I believe they hope that by time he does get out, that he would stop trying or that people would have forgotten his message. Both as of now seem impossible. But I liked the way you worded what you said. Have a good day. : )
ReplyDelete-Laura
I think it is completely unfair that Liu was awarded such an honorable prize and is unable to be released to accept it. He was arrested for the exact thing that he was awarded the prize for: fighting for human rights. He definitely deserved to win the prize, especially since the Nobel Committee prides themselves on awarding human rights activists. I can understand why he was arrested because he was going against the strict Chinese government but he did nothing morally wrong and deserves to win the prize for his bold actions in fighting for human rights. Liu should definitely be released from prison to accept his award and should be respected by his country for winning such an honorable prize.
ReplyDeleteAudrey Romano
I agree with all my fellow classmates. Liu should not have been jailed, especially for standing up what he believes in. I hope that Liu will start a trend and an example for speaking your mind. Unfortunately, many people in China will not speak their mind due to their fear of being jailed. It would be a miracle, and fabulous news if more people start to speak their mind in China to work towards change. I believe it is obvious that he deserved the noble peace prize. Also, the fact that Liu received the prize for basically the same reason of why he was jailed completely baffles me. It's so interesting how certain actions are viewed so differently around the world. Lastly, I do agree with Barack Obama that Liu has sacrificed his freedom for his beliefs.
ReplyDelete-Leah Killmer
I am in agreement with the rest of my classmates that Liu Xiaobo did indeed deserve the Nobel Peace Prize, as an activist for human rights. Not only was he co-author of Charter 08, but he was a leader to student protesters. It's important when fighting for a cause to lead others and generate support from the youth. I feel that it is ridiculous that he was jailed because he was brave enough to fight for human rights. I hope to see a day when this is no longer considered a crime and the Chinese have freedom and rights. Liu winning the Nobel Peace Prize will help make this a reality, by displaying his fight in a positive light. This is a significant step in gaining human rights in China. Something mentioned in the article that really stood out to me was that when people heard the news of the prize being awarded to Liu, they were forbidden from mentioning it on Twitter. This is a prime example of how oppressed the people of China are. It displays how each person lacks rights, even on a social networking site. Even something this simple shows how important Liu's cause is. I respect what Liu has done and hope that he'll be freed from jail soon and able to celebrate his achievement.
ReplyDeleteJackie Weisser
Although China is practicing their government under a dictatorship, I believe that Liu Xiaobo should be given the opportunity to accept the Nobel Peace Prize. Even though the Chinese disagree with his beliefs in human rights and fundamental freedoms, they should allow him to accept his prize personally. Clearly, many people think his beliefs are strong and peaceful, instead of wrong and illegal. If the chinese government wishes to imprison Liu, then they have a right, since he is a Chinese citizen. However, they must be aware that he seems more of a hero than a crimal to many others. Figures such as Barrack Obama and the Dalai Lama supporting Liu Xiaobo should show that. In light of the whole situation however, I think it is good that he is still able to recieve the prize, even if his wife recieves it for him.
ReplyDelete-Taylor Novello
I think that Liu Xiaobo earning the Nobel Peace prize. It's kind of ironic that the Chinese government has imprisoned him for the same reason why he gained the Peace Prize. And this shows people around the world exactly what is going on in China and how unjust the dictatorship is. He really deserves the right, by American standards I suppose, to be let out of jail to accept the award. But by being jailed now is what he has to do to help his cause like so many other activists had to do in the past to make people realize what needs to be changed.
ReplyDelete- Elissa Rodney-Joseph
I strongly believe that Liu Xiaobo deserves to have won the nobel peace prize. It shows how some one can give up anything to fight for what they believe in. He is fighting for a good cause, the human rights of people in China, its crazy that the Chinese government imprisoned him in the first place since he is only fighting for what he believes, he didn't do anything that i would actually consider a crime. The Chinese government is wrong to go against the people of the Noble Peace Prize, since he is fighting for to improve the lives of people and that is what the Noble Peace prize is all about.
ReplyDeleteisabela Aguiar
As I'm sure many others have said, Liu's wife accepting the award is nice and all, but I feel like, even though the Chinese government does not believe in the award, Liu should be allowed out - even for just a day - to accept the award as it is a huge moment. The Chinese government should recognize that, I think, instead of shoving their punishment for going against their ideas and beliefs down his, and his family's, throat(s)...if that makes any sense. It makes sense in my head.
ReplyDelete-Athena Chiu
Audrey makes a good point. I agree that he did nothing morally wrong, yet he did go against the strict law of China so I understand the jail sentence. China needs to realize that the Nobel Peace Prize is extremely prestigious. Liu winning this prize should help them realize that his act was a remarkable one, not something to be imprisoned for. I agree with Elissa that it is ironic that he was jailed by China yet awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize for the same reason. I hope that Liu receiving the award influences China to see his actions as positive and that China begins to reform its strict laws.
ReplyDeleteJackie Weisser
I agree with everyone. I think that Liu should've at least gotten the chance to accept his award. Receiving an award like that is a once in a lifetime thing, and it should be accepted/celebrated like the person receiving it wants to celebrate or accept it. His wife accepting the award is different from him accepting it, even if they were to have the same reaction. It was not her award, it was his (nothing against her or her accepting it for him). If enough citizens act as Liu in stating their opinions publicly instead of keeping quiet, China may rethink their rights and restrictions. They can't throw everyone in jail, right?
ReplyDelete- Jada S Nims
I basically agree with everyone aswell.
ReplyDeleteWinning this award is an incredible honor. In the first place i don't think he should have been put in jail because he fighting for civil rights. If it weren't for people challenging the flaws in society we would not be where we are today. I commend and admire him for that. He accomplished something great and he should be allowed to accept his award even though government in China deem it wrong. Winning your first Noble Peace Prize, and for many your only, is an exciting moment that you cannot get back. Think about how Taylor Swift felt. Except for Xia he does not have a Beyonce to invite him oon staged to except his much deserved award.
--Jasmine Paige Taylor b3-4
Jazz I was definitely thinking about that earlier, but I didn't want to say anything about that. It's basically the same instance, besides the slight difference. Its a big deal, accepting an award and having your shine taken away is heartbreaking.
ReplyDelete- Jada S Nims
I agree. It really is. You can never get your first time back. Its the most exciting and the one you remember forever. Especially if you are being recognized for something you accomplished that you are proud of.
ReplyDelete--Jasmine Paige Taylor
It is completely unfair that Liu Xiaobo is sentenced to eleven years in prison. The prison term and the Nobel Peace Prize are totally contradicting one another. Also, it's really a shame that he isn't able to accept his Nobel Peace Prize. Liu's lawyer believes this may make his term longer.
ReplyDeleteLiu Xiaobo deserves his award 100%. He shouldn't be being jailed, especially for calling for human rights and democratization. I'm glad that at least some people are recognizing how great of a person Liu is. I just hope that everyone sees how awesome he is.
Although I agree with everyone, and although i am not in any way trying to defend the Chinese government, i do not feel that anyone is looking at it from their prospective. With imperialism for example, one of the reasons we had for trying to take over a government was to make them "civilized" as they were deemed unfit to rule themselves. The Chinese government may still be in that time where they think their people can not handle themselves for whatever reason. As with imperialism, they are looking for profit, i am sure the Chinese government is too. But, from that prospective, everything they are doing makes sense although it is not moral. They see Liu as someone trying to break their control and that is why they are doing what there doing.
ReplyDelete-Laura
I agree with Heather in that preventing twitter users to acknowledge Liu is ridiculous. Clearly news is going to travel whether one agrees or disagrees that it is wrong for Liu to be imprisoned and whether or not he should accept his nobel peace prize. No matter what, people are going to create their opinions and if the Chinese government imprisoned THEIR citizen, why shouldn't their other citizens be able to speak of it.
ReplyDelete^^^^ -Taylor Novello
ReplyDeleteLaura, i understand where you're coming from, but as you said.. it's not moral. They aren't doing the right thing. You said the Chinese government "may still be in a time where they think their people cannot handle themselves", and if that is the case, it needs to change. People are responsible for themselves and their actions and their government needs to realize that.
ReplyDeleteIt makes no sense why Liu is being punished for the same reason he is getting a Nobel Peace Prize.
I believe the Nobel Peace Prize should not have been given to Liu Xiaobo. In my eyes, he has not done anything to deserve it. Though he has campaigned for greater rights in China, it has not affected anything in the Chinese government. In addition, the giving of the prize to Xiaobo has soured relations between Norway and China, something that is not good for both countries. Overall, I think Liu Xiaobo should not have gotten the Peace Prize.
ReplyDelete-Dan Stein
Laura, you have a great point. Looking at it from the Chinese prospective, what Liu did was completely wrong. Liu did know the rules of his own country and knows why he is being jailed. I believe that someone should not be jailed for expressing their beliefs, but as Laura said, from the Chinese prospective, what they are doing makes sense, even though it is not moral. Over all, I am happy to be living in America.
ReplyDeleteAn arrested man winning the Nobel Peace Prize? Before even seeing the article, I thought, "Well he must have been fighting for a great cause." After I read, I realized he was. And I also took upon myself to do a bit more research on China's government. Which did come out saying that China has a communist party in their government.
ReplyDeleteWhen a Communist Party is presented within any government, problems are bound to occur. And in most cases, those countries live under strict regulations. I believe Liu did a great thing to stand up for human rights, but at the same time, was it still correct?
I'm like Laura, I like to look at both sides of the story, so I do have to agree that Lui was well aware of what he was getting himself into when he began fighting for human rights. But China having a communist party, is going to cause them to want to maintain a close control over there people. This means controlling what they're people hear, or see. That explains why they can stop channels from airing things and even block internet users from their country to view things they don't want them to see. And in this case their leaving China to be ignorant.
Liu did do a good thing. And yes now the whole world can look at the situation and help out the people in China who are suffering from the control of this government. But, it still doesn't make China a horrible country. IF they recognized him for that award, that is like saying to all of the people living in their country a free pass to overthrow the government. Which in the end would just end up in a huge chaos.
-Claudia
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteLiu Xiaobo should have won this award and I'm very happy he did. In the beginning of the article it makes it seem like he was a bad man because he is in jail. However he is in jail for a good cause. He was put in jail for fighting for human rights. He saw a problem in his society and decided to try and fix it. The government didn't like it so they sent him to jail. For fighting for what he believe in, he definitely deserves The 2010 Nobel Peace Prize.
ReplyDelete-Sydney Rosenberg
I agree with Laura's post about the Chinese Government. No one is looking at it from their side. They are trying to run their country the best way that they see fit. They don't like it when others try to change that. You wouldn't want one person trying to change something you may have worked your whole life for. Maybe if we took a look at this from the government's side we might have a different opinion.
ReplyDelete-Sydney Rosenberg
Liu Xiabo is a true hero! Many people have been rewarded in the past for their large, elaborate, international efforts towards world peace, but Liu has been rewarded based upon his fight for human rights in one country. Human rights, although they may not change the world in one bold action, change things little by little. It ends a cycle of people being hurt and then hurting others. It improves people's day to day life in every way imaginable. The end of a war in some far away country may contribute to world peace, but it would have little effect on the day to day life of the average citizen. Human rights, however, gain people freedoms, power, and equality, and that's what really means something to the every day person. It brings about peace in a way that is (pardon the reference) ordinary but extraordinary. It is something that should be without a doubt honored.
ReplyDeleteHowever, it was also a bold decision to award Liu this honor because it undermines China (a major world power and one of the biggest countries in the world) on so many levels. Throughout history, people have been tiptoeing around China's feelings to avoid wars, etc. because so many resources are to be gotten from there. Therefore, I was a little shocked that the Nobel Peace prize was awarded to LiU because it was an example of a major international organization openly showing disagreement with Chinese policies. China has tried desperately to silence the efforts of Liu and avoid his ideas from spreading through China. Now, his beliefs are being spread throughout the entire world. It is calling much more attention to the problems in China that are often ignored. By Liu winning this Noble Peace Prize, it has done even more to spread his fight for human rights. China is obviously very upset by this, and it is bound to create international tension.
-John Patterson B 1/2 :)