4. It’s a global effort
We believe in freedom of religion for everyone, and that anyone should be able to practice their religion in a peaceful way without intrusion. The CCP does not; they continue to strongly persecute Christians, Uyghurs and others simply because they believe differently.
In the book of Hebrews, we’re told to remember those who are suffering for Jesus as if we, ourselves, were suffering. As Christ-followers, we’re a family of believers. We have brothers and sisters in each and every country around the globe. It’s because we’re a family, where we feel for each other and carry each other’s burdens, that we urge you to boycott this year’s Olympics.
We aren’t the only organization calling for a boycott of the games. In fact, over 180 human rights groups wrote a joint letter urging a boycott, including Humanitarian China, Free Tibet and World Uyghur Congress. Entire countries are also diplomatically boycotting the Olympics: The United States, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and Lithuania (among others) have decided to forgo the tradition of sending government officials or representatives. The Olympics are traditionally a time to set aside differences and honor sport and competition, but more and more countries and organizations are responding to China’s human rights record with boycotts.
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China is a critical piece in our global economy, and although they are an incredible people and culture, we cannot reward the CCP’s brutal and oppressive behavior. Make no doubt about it, the Chinese government will be scanning social media, watching global TV ratings and reading articles on how other countries perceive them. By boycotting the Olympics, we’re showing the CCP we know what they’re doing—and that we can’t agree with it.
Whether you choose to boycott or not, let’s continue to be a voice for the voiceless and take action. Share articles on China’s atrocities and spread the truth on social media about what is actually happening behind closed doors. Have discussions with your families, small groups, and church leaders about ways to help the persecuted in China. And maybe more than anything—pray.
Pray for our brothers and sisters in China, for their safety and ability to practice freely. Pray for the Uyghur community, for their peace and overall well-being. And pray for the CCP, that they will see the error in their ways, loosen their grip and become a party where freedom of religion is not only tolerated, but encouraged. We pray to a God of miracles.