Demonstrators gather before torch relay

Wednesday marked the first time that the Olympic torch would make its way past North America this year. This once casual celebration has now brought about several issues of turmoil and debate. Law enforcement is now being required to accompany the torch and its runners as they make their way to Beijing. Thousands of pro-Tibet and pro-China groups are gathering along the route to stand up for their strong beleifs. The supporters are standing out against the games being hosted in China due to the thousands of Tibetans that have been killed. I am all in support of their protest as long as they can do it safely and remain off of the course. They are entitled to stand up for what they beleive in just as everyone else is. My only concern is that, the mass amounts of people are creating a safety issue for the torch runners and are taking away their joy of completing the event. This is a traditional event that has taken place for centurys, and it would be a shame to see it altered or affected. On another note, the olympic committee is now dealing with nude protestors calling for the games to return to their most original form as was done in Ancient Greece. I find that these individuals to be the true violators as they are in direct violation of laws and restrictions. These people are the ones that are creating the media attention that has been brought to this event. They could have easily protested their cause while doing so in a civilized form. Overall, I hope that everything works out as planned with everyone keeping their protesting in-line. Im sure that with such tight security that is taking place that everyone can rest assured that the torch will be carried to Beijing safe and sound.