Few days ago I watched Olympian Michelle Engelsman speak out against the Internet firewall in China. The event was organised by Amnesty International and took place over two days. There was no media present to report on the event and if you follow the news there was not a single mention of it.
I thought to myself if it has any sense since its exposure is very local and practically invisible.
Concurrently there was huge media outcry over the Internet limitations access in Beijing. Today, to my surprise, I have noticed the Chinese government went good on its promise of unrestricted Internet access. This extraordinary move was communicated to the journalist reporting on the Olympic Games by China’s president, Hu Jintao.
Australian Tibet Council has organised a peaceful protest today in Martin Place against alleged brutal military crackdown against Tibet by Chinese government. The council is clear: Australian Olympic Committee should boycott carrying of the torch up Mount Everest. Interestingly the message did not call for the total boycott of the Olympics in Beijing.
The photograph shows news cameraman filming gathered protesters, their posters and gruesome photographs of torture victims.
Chinese Dragon Dance is traditionally performed during the New Year celebrations. In this case however, it was performed with intention to bring good luck to a function held by a bank in Sydney’s China Town. The dance lasted about 30 minutes and was visibly physically demanding on the performers. Colourful, red and gold costumes as well as very loud drums brought attention of countless passers by.
I’ve photographed this interestingly dressed man in Sydney’s China Town. We were both watching a Dragon Dance performed by a very skilled group of young man. The show was very captivating and literally stopped traffic. The show was intended for a function in a local bank and it turned into a street spectacle for all.
Something quite strange in western society and yet quite popular in Chinese customs is holding hands by friends. This applies to boys and girls but is more frequently practicised by girls. I’ve photographed these two Chinese friends at China Town, Sydney. The girls had a good giggle when they saw me taking their photo.
