Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

a Tibetan man — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:00:36 GMT

The Chinese state has failed to protect Uighurs from employment discrimination which has resulted in extremely high rates of unemployment among Uighurs in the XUAR and fuelled discontent. Many Uighurs report seeing 'Uighurs need not apply' signs posted by employers at job fairs demonstrating the state's inaction in enforcing anti-discrimination laws. Even university graduates who speak fluent Chinese have difficulty finding employment.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

TJS, Ca — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:29:23 GMT

The "rioters" didn't make a mistake. The (original) rioters were Uighur, and their targets were Han owned shops and restaurants as well as Han people themselves, how do you that restaurant was not hit by the Uighur rioters? You seem to imply that it was the Hans who did all the damage. Please report the truth rather than twisted facts. It's amazing to me that you western journalists only care to interview the Uighurs and do your best to portray them as the victims even though they started the riots and the killings.

When the L.A. riot broke out, I don't see the US media portraying blacks as the victims. The 150+ Han people who died on the streets thank you for portraying their cold blooded Uighur murderers as the victims. So much for journalistic integrity. You should be ashamed of yourself.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Wolfgang, Beijing — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:32:27 GMT

Look at your own Indians and African Americans, colonist.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Cris Markos — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:45:59 GMT

Excellent story. It's surreal indeed. Then again, don't leave it to beauty queens to be informed.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

David Toronto Canada — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:09:27 GMT

very sad to hear that peoples were get killed.
but one thing to be clear,

China is heading a correct direction,
but China will never turn into like amercia or euro style country. in general, Chinese beleive violent will never their first option. if the riots happen, so let it be, from all the riot instances, the governmnet learn alot from it. next time this happen, they will do it better...

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Mike, Illinois — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:46:58 GMT

Wolfgang, the reason why the world knows about our "own Indians and African Americans" is precisely because our journalists are free to report on any and all angles of a story, even those portions that are unflattering/damaging to the U.S. I wonder whether the state Chinese media will be as balanced? I wonder if the state Chinese media will examine the plight of the Uighurs as well as the Han? ... What is that? ... [your silence here] ...

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

ian, dallas — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:59:07 GMT

The Chinese have colonialised other peoples for millennia. Some races were more successful than others at repelling the Han, others were not so lucky (or plucky). It's sad to witness, but that's the way it's always been.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

mihri — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:01:31 GMT

Do you know How xianhua hate uighur people?they killed a lot of uighur leaders. They don't give to uighur people the same opportunity as they have and discriminate us.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Jorge — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:17:54 GMT

The current Chinese government as well as the previous nationalist Chinese government(Prior to 1949) have done a lot for Uighurs in Xingjiang. For example, Uigurs do not require to pass examinations to go to universities; they have their own representives in the government, the goverment has appropriated a large among money to develop the conutry and many Han Chinese are helping Uighurs to build Xingjiang. They have an equal or better economic and political opportunities than Han Chinese because they are minorities. As a matter of fact, they are not many qualified professional and technical personnel among Uughurs. As a result, the Chinese government has encourged Han Chinese to migrate to Xingjiang developing the country for Uighurs.
The Uighurs and Hans had lived in peace and harmony for a long long time until recent incident obviously, instigated by outside trouble makers. The Hans have brought prosperity to Xingjiang. If Hans Chinese leave Xingjiang, it would set Xingjiang's civilization back at lease 50 years. Most Uighurs in Xingjiang appreciate the facts; however, they are some separationists and extremists with outside agitators who have started the problem.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

ohio — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:00:39 GMT

well if you have poor education and can't speak Madarin. of course its gonna be tough to get hired by employer who looking for people know madarin and better educated. This is same every where

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

TC5, Seattle, WA — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:02:35 GMT

There are affirmative action programs in China. Han Chinese students have been caught trying to pass off as minorities to enter Universities because of lower scholastic requirements. The authorities are handling these matters very poorly because they are not culturally sensitive and clumsy. The Han Chinese resent the minorities more because they see minorities getting preferential treatment. Trying to appease minorities is not helped by the universal suppression of religion. All practice of religion including Buddhism, Islam, Christianity are suppressed.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

tim, nj — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:03:48 GMT

jorge, that sounds like the same line of bull the chinese government is saying.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Kid Indiana, Pittsburgh, Pa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:16:12 GMT

What? No beauty pageant pics? What a waste.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Mike, Illinois — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:16:28 GMT

Jorge,

Someone's been dutifully reciting the Communist party line each and every morning.

According to your comments, Hans are qualified professionals and people of great technical ability. Hans are benevolent in "civilizing" the backward Uighurs. Hans merely assist through residency, Hans are not occupiers or oppressors. Hans "migrate to Xingjiang developing the country FOR Uighurs". Magnificent Hans.

According to your comments, Uighurs are not developed or civilized. Apparently, Uighurs are incapable of taking care of themselves, medically or technically. Uighurs were never "properous" without benevolent Hans. Without Hans, Uighurs cannot survive. After all, all the doctors, engineers and no less than 50 years of civilization would disappear. Oh dear. Of course, Uighurs are weak willed -- falling prey to the distant mind controls of those evil "foreign" forces. Poor Uighurs.

Thank goodness for Han benevolence. Brother, can you spare a poor Uighur a helping Han?

With such blatant racial/cultural prejudice, can oppression of the minority really be that far behind?

Jorge, got a mirror?

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Mike Hays — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:20:10 GMT

I have been to China many times and I care so for it people's. They no little about the rest of the world and have no idea of what freedom really is. When you you read only what the Communist party want's you to read and see the same on TV you can no nothing about the real life. Your Internet is monitored as is your email and everything else. So you know so little about what goes on in your own country and you only hear the bad of what goes on in others. The only thing great about China is its kind caring people but so ignorant about its own country as well as others. From one that has seen both worlds and is free to say what he wants say without fear of anyone.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

ANCA, Austin, Texas — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:33:43 GMT

The Chinese government has given so many special favorable treatments to Uighurs (both economic and culture included), that most other people think that it is not fair.

Besides economic special treatments, Uighurs can even carry long knife in major cities while it is banned for others in order to respect Uighur culture.

This reporter and many others in the West included have very biased views on China even before they begin to report the "truth". Yet, it is the very truth that these western medias do not report, as far as China is considered. Lightly touched sentences on the crime of killing 180+ lives compares palely against the description of "mobs" when local people can not take the bloody killings anymore.

These western medias have completely lost the trust of Chinese people who at least know a lot more truth that these western media turned blind eyes on. What a pity that Chinese people used to 30 years ago trust western media for facts. What a wake up call. The world has completely turned around.

Shame on these "to the truth" western media reporting. Shame on these in western media who "valued" so much so called "human rights" when demonstrating just the opposite.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Don — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:38:03 GMT

They killed so many people and the Chinese government has to send law enforcement to protect the local people. If you kill someone in America or Europe, what will the local police do? You will expect a bullet if you keep hurting people on street.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Alex, Boulder, CO — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:23:17 GMT

Basing on what I heard in the western world, it seems like that we Han Chinese has an original sin that we are governed by communism party. So from your mouth, no matter what we do, everything is wrong. No matter how wrong other people do, they are right, because they are on the opposite side of han people. So we han people are deserved to be killed, to be raped, to be badly treated. Do I understand right?

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

yes — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:30:12 GMT

From the tone of the article, the writer surely was expecting more juicy angles which runs along the lines of "Chinese police killed thousands and here is a video"?

Here is the problem of western "journalist" such as this one. Before he even interviews anyone, he already has a story based on a different angle in his mimnd. So instead of just reporting based on what he came across, he has to allow his own bias to omit important facts such as the death count. Sure, there is no way to verify the exact breakdown of the deaths, but the author could of mentioned something like, "at the hospital I see mostly hans" as many other western reporters did. Instead, the author has to omit this because it does not fit his own pre-defined angle.

Speaking of discrimination, why don't the author write an article about how the expat community from the West discriminates against the locals? I mean, you look at the expat community forums and you can easily verify the fact that caucasians are paid more and offered more job opportunties than locals just because they are white, inside China! Not only that, but the Westerners in China constantly go on their racist rants about how dirty, tricky, lazy, rude, Chinese people are, although many of these people would of being pretty average joes if they stayed in their own countries. So why don't the local Chinese people go on a riot and kill massive foreigners as they did during the boxer rebellion? Because they have grown up. Apparently the Uighurs never did.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

David, Rockville, Maryland — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:35:43 GMT

"The Chinese government believes it has brought economic progress and prosperity to the region. They see the Uighurs as an ungrateful lot, the rioters manipulated by criminals and separatist terrorists overseas." How do you know what the Chinese government believe? Look more like you are putting your belief into other people's mouth. Where is your proof that the Chinese government feels that way? As a journalist, you are suppose to report the facts, not your biased opinion. I stopped reading after that sentence because you have lost all your credibility as a journalist.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Nihouw — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:40:46 GMT

Yes Chinese, has played be at the fence attitude for long about fighting terror and stopping nuke proliferation. Perhaps this will get them thinking about the future of their security with the world and the Arabs.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Marvin, Chicago — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:48:04 GMT

Mike Hays:

You mentioned that you have been to China for many times, in order to give us an impression that you know about China much much better than other Americans. Am I right?
However, I lived in China for more than 6 years, and unfortunately, I have to say, your statement about China was incorrect, mainly.
State-own media in China are not trustful, I accpet this argument. But how aout CNN? BBC? Germany or French media? Just talk to Chinese people around you (if you have any), see how they feel about what they call "western media" when they are reporting China.
Get a mirror for ourselves first.

Marvin

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Carla — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:52:12 GMT

It is important to recognize that the riot was the land and culture preservaton protest for Uighurs. In their own land they are getting oppressed and forced to follow Chinese rules.
It doesn't matter who were most killed, Chinese or Uighurs. The one thing it is clear that poor people are fed up with chinese policies and it was sudden impulsive attempt(may not have been the best) to show the anger, resentment and frustration with chinese hidden reprerssion to gradually destroy their identity and assimilate them with mainstream chinese culture which is too dissimilar with Uighur culture to tolerate for Uighurs.

I praise Mongolia (not inner Mongolia) for being such a small population of 2-3million yet managed to keep chinese out of their country who are usually always eager to migrate over there too. There is natural and well known dislikeness or even hatred of MOngolians toward chinese. I am not surprised that Uighurs have the same feelings, although it is much harder for them to fight in organized way.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Susan, Reno — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:02:40 GMT

We Americans and Europeans only PRETEND to care. It makes us feel better and good, and helps us forget our crimes and atrocities. Never forget tyranny and murder (euphemistically called colonialism) ceased because it was unaffordable, not because of altruism. And now many human rights organizations are based in London! We may think we are sincere, but all people always feel this. It's like ex-Nazi's later preaching morality.

The chinese need to improve, but our criticisms are insincere and totally disingenuous. Naturally the vying tendencies of neighboring countries will accept support from us. But they will either be victims increased suffering and false hope (are we seriously going to invest what it takes to free them from the chinese?) OR they will achieve freedom and then be dropped like a rock. (Think Afghanistan prior to 911.) This I'm sure of, esp. with our own budgetary woes.

Engagement is the key. Work supportively and pressure gradually. Our system and perhaps theirs allow for this despite it being long and difficult. We should not support violent riots? Who supports the Rodney King riots despite legitimate grievances? In fact, riots show an ironic measure of progress. Did Black slaves or Native Americans or Nazi-era Jews riot? NO. They would have been annihilated (and unfortunately still were).

Our perspectives are indeed inflammatory and ultimately sinister. For this I understand their point of view. Ethnic rivalry continues to go on since the beginning of mankind. To blame simplistically on 'their government' is not correct and does a disservice to the problem of ethnic rivalries worldwide. (There are riots against chinese in Indonesia, etc. These certainly are not due to the policies of the PRC.) Egg'ing ethnic rivalries on is destructive. How much more progress would there be in Israel if other middle-eastern countries didn't keep egg'ing things on? (despite legitimate grievances of the Palestinians) They are going through growing pains in adapting to minorities like we were (are) and fortunately we didn't have outsiders using our minorities as pawns.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Amy — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:40:02 GMT

Most all of the dignities we call "God" regardless of where we live, have asked that we "love thy neighbor as thyself."
If we practice this virtue/truth/message...the world will certainly be a better place...for all

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Truth — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:48:53 GMT

Up to this date, the US congress has yet to approve formal apology to the black people on past discrimations and torture.

Not to mention all the worst things done on mankind are all by US. The repeated use of nuclear weapons, massacre of Indians, and discrimination towards blacks are just a few.

By comparison, Chinese government should be the role model for the US. Put away your cowboy dumbness and wake up to the new world.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Walter, Rhode Island USA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:04:16 GMT

Not to excuse violence or racism wherever it is found, but reading about the unrest in Urumqi has more than a slight element of deja vu about it for someone who recalls the racial unrest in American cities during the 1960s and 1970s. There is no question but that wrong is shared when two ethnic groups commit violence on one another, regardless of the causes that may have ignited the conflict. The question is what does the society do to right the inequities that caused the hostilities. It sounds as if China has affirmative action programs not so very different from those the Americans established during their period of greatest racial strife. I think they have to be given a chance to work. Rioting and violence - i.e., lawlessness - should be dealt with based on the actions committed without regard to the ethnic background and motivation of the perpetrators. I would expect to see Uighurs and Han both in jail as a result - which would be justice.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

a singaporean chinese — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:34:35 GMT

I speak from the bottom of my heart. I am a Han Chinese whose family has been living overseas for some generations. Racial tolerance is crucial as Singapore used to have riots only a few decades ago.

Some words that are used often in western articles and even posted in the commentary can be quite hurtful. All the finger-pointing on who to blame, contributes nothing more than to encouraging further hatred and suspicion. Please refrain from promoting pushing blame to any race in general.

How would you feel when only a few people who have discriminate, caused the entire race or group to be classified as invaders or oppressors? Indeed, there are a few laws passed by the Chinese government that I do feel rather regrettable.

Ultimately, wuldn't the world be a more peaceful place if we stop pushing blame and give more constructive solutions instead?

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Alex, NJ — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:46:54 GMT

Hi Ian, the most important thing you forgot to do is to condemn the violence against Han and Uighurs civilians. From the video clips and pictures taken not only by the Chinese state media but also journalists from overseas, it's clear that most of the victims are Han Chinese. Those who committed such crimes are criminals and need to be brought to justice, peirod. Only then we can talk about reconcilation.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Gonzalo, Falls Church, VA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:05:17 GMT

To succeed in America, one has to speak good English. I will expect the same in China. If the Uighurs can’t speak Mandarin, they have no one to blame but themselves.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

SU — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:45:51 GMT

I completely agree with TJS. I am of Indian origin and don't generally agree with the Chinese govt way of functioning. But in this case, it is unfair for you to continually imply that Uighurs are the victims when in fact they were the ones who started this riot (As reported by you). Please encourage when a govt tries to improve and give them credit when due. It is a tough job to keep peace and prosperity in a country. They are atleast trying to do the right thing this time.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

USAPRC — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:47:59 GMT

Anca is corrrect. Also, for you liberal US citizens, how many of you hire innercity black kids. Your first thought is thief or drug dealer or gang member and wouldn't consider hiring one. Hypocrits. My wife is from this area and from first hand it is a similar situation. However, most chinese will give the locals a chance but they cant betray that trust. a small number do and result in the same stereotyping we have in the US.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

gerry,NY — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:01:19 GMT

you did not include any photos of the Beauty Contestants
you JERK!!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

American in China — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:04:50 GMT

Wow... it is interesting to see the comments on here. As someone who currently is in China as we speak, there have been negativity on each side of the problem. Each side has experienced some tragedy, and there are responsible people on each side. The problem, in my opinion, resides in the narrow views that people think that any one group is superior than the other or developing the other. The institutionalized oppression has led to this, and has been something that has existed in EVERY country among some group of people. This reminds me of integration and the race riots that happened in America... Western journalists emphathize because it is a part of our history. Perhaps being open-minded about the situation will lead to further clarity on the institutionalized seperatism that exists...

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

SG, IL — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:05:28 GMT

All were said. The reasons that western reporters can not objectively report the events happend in China are because:

1) They are brain-washed by that Chinese government is evil government. This is the result of cold war. This is a fact.
2) Western reporters are afraid that they are treated as if on Chinese government's side if they say something good about Chinese government. Their audiences are westerns, people just like them, not Chinese.
3) Reporters are humans too, just like you and me. They need this job and money to support their family. So don't take too serious about articles. Think about this - if you were in their shoes, would you do the same things?

After all, truth is truth, if you are a honest person, you will find the truth no matter what a reporter or some reporters say.

Wish world peace!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

SKVAM — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:20:01 GMT

So once again the Han Chinese tyranny is, like a grossly obese pig, sitting on top of and crushing the Uighurs, the Tibetans, and decent Chinese patriots who are human rights workers, and this pig puts on a "beauty" show...talk about putting lipstick on a pig.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

tony — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:21:08 GMT

Comerade jorge from Great RED CHINA. Give us a break you can tell from a mile a way that you are reciting like a parrot government line. Rememember this. MAO Xe dung, Chu e lai, Den xia ping. They are all dead one day you red marxist theory will be put to rest for good in China. And chinese will be ashamed to remeber it. You can fool some people all time or all people for some time but you cant fool all people all time. When your red china will explode will be so much blood on streets that no river will be able to wash it. Chinese governmet will fall cus of their own doing mark my word on it. And yes we will live to see it. It will happen.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Sam, Rzeszów, Poland — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:30:39 GMT

I agree it's a little one-sided, but considering how the Chinese state news is most likely portraying it, it's only fair it gets a complete opposite view in America. Kind of how it works. However, no nation is free from ethnic conflict, and considering how large and diverse China is, it makes sense something like this would happen eventually. Especially considering the strict and insensitive laws. Still, it's not fair to lump them all into categories. I'm sure the majority of both sides, Han and Uighur, didn't want this to happen. It takes only a few bad or delusional people to cause something like this. It really is a bad thing that happened, but hopefully it gets settled and fixed, instead of just being put aside and suppressed so it can happen again.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

WT, Singapore — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:32:14 GMT

The dead are mostly Han!! If as a journalist, you yourself can't even do your own homework and walk into any local hospital to take a look and verify the number before disputing the fact, you've already lost the professionism of being a journalist together with your mind. At least, don't try to report anything by just using your imagination..what? All you can pay attention to in Urumqi is just the Pageant contest?.. shame on you, you don't even derserve to be a journalist, what about those innocent Han people killed by the so called "peaceful protesters"? Do they become just a disputed number?..

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Mel, Singapore — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:34:50 GMT

Mike from Illinois,
You seen to have a strong believe that the Uighurs are the victims and Han Chinese are the perpetrators. Anyone who tries to tell you otherwise is pretty much dismissed by you. Let me ask you, were you ever in Urumqi? Did you see what was there prior to the riots, what happened during the riots, and what happened after? And on what basis do you make your accusations?
Uighurs, like all minorities in China, have special privileges for university entrances, scholarships and job opportunities. Those who do not make it, probably did really badly in school, because standards for minorities are set lower than for Han Chinese. the fact that the Uighurs were the ones to start the riot seems to have been forgotten in this article and in your comments.
No one will stand for another race beating down your door and killing your people without fighting back. This is probably equivalent to have a group of African American burning down barns and hacking people to death in Texas. I bet all the Rednecks would come out with their guns and start shooting. Thus, is the same in Urumqi.
You can be unhappy with policies or discrimination in the country, but going on riot and mass killing is NOT a justifiable route. I can understand if people voice concern over the management of minorities in China, but justify their senseless slaughter of Han Chinese is completely out of the question.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Sam, Rzeszów, Poland — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:37:58 GMT

It might also be the economic hardship we're facing, if China is feeling the strain also. Nothing like a lack of jobs and plenty of difficulties that can't be fixed to cause people to start pointing fingers. I'm looking at you, United Kingdom.
Funny about the models, though. xD They don't exactly make a career by knowing current events, though, and I'm sure most of them thought they wouldn't be having a pageant unless the city was safe and prosperous.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Misty, Leawood, Kansas — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:18:42 GMT

I dont understand how the LA riots have anything to do with victimization? It was the blacks who took to the street and tore down their own neighborhood, so how are they the victim? What about the truck driver who was doing his job and had to drive through that and was dragged from his truck and beat for being white? Lets not play a race card here to determine victims. I dont know the saga between the Hans and the other folks, but lets not get American facts twisted with those things going on in China.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Daj — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:28:18 GMT

Mike,
Good comment. But you not really know Chiness people. I am a Chinese, we neither trust the Chinese goverment media nor the westen media, we thinking by ourself. Actually, the Chinese people know the wold more than westen people know China. For example, do you know "one child one family" policy only restrict the Has people, the minority family can have more than one child? Of cause you don't know, because your media will never tell that. How you know every thing you knew is right.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

pvr, San Diego, CA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:34:49 GMT

Wolfgang, the world has changed. Apparently you haven't gotten the message yet, or quite simply don't care.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

sam Ft Lauderdale ,Fl — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:36:53 GMT

This is a basically well-organized simultanously crried-out terror attack toward innocent civilians,the masteminds are some extreme Islamic militants inside China. Think about 9-11 here!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Edward C. Stengel — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:47:36 GMT

We have our own instances of police brutality in America, and a long tradition of it at that. Let's
not forget the 1968 police riot at the democratic
national convention, the FBI siege at Ruby Ridge,
and the murder by the federal government of over 80
people in Waco, Texas in 1993. Police brutality is
not unique to any nation.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Richardo, Los Angeles CA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 03:59:45 GMT

The Uighar killings were initiated in Guangdong Province by Han Chinese, and peacelful demonstrations in East Turkestan (now Xinjiang Province)were mishandled by police. The Manchus, Nationalists and most severley, the communist Chinese imperialists have invaded and subjugated this country many times. If that is not bad enough, China began a program to destroy the Uighar economy, culture and religion. Now, cultural genocide is turning to physical genocide.

It is ironic that now Al-Quaeda has threatened retaliation by attacking Chinese workers in Algeria. That may have more to do with their trying to make Algeria an Islamic state rather than avenging the Uighar persecution. China knows how to deal with internal dissent (busting heads), but they are not prepared to defend against Al-Qaeda attacks in North Africa. The predator now becomes the prey. How do I know? I have recently lived in China for several years. I have both Uighar and Han friends, and like much about China, but the government needs to change its old repressive ways if it wants to be respected globally.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Big Bear — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 04:03:41 GMT

Ironic that this article written by a wealthy white from a country that still promotes its own colonial fortunes. how hypocritical

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Mike Kurt, CA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 04:04:51 GMT

Putting political & racial issues aside, should we encourage anyone to kill others in order to express their anger or dissatifaction! This is rediculous!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Luke, China — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 05:31:42 GMT

Mike, in Chinese media there do have a lot of article pondering the policy and plight of Uighurs, and many people are helping uighers as well as other minorities by a movement called "developing the west".Maybe it is better that you come here to China and look by your own eye! Yes the China government have a lot to do to make all nation in China feel better, and united. However for those who live on foreign enemy aid(CIA money,weapon,strategy,and western propaganda help), it is justifiable to quell down those villain by any standard to protect civilian and order!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Luke, China — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 05:49:15 GMT

Mike,

Someone's been dutifully reciting the GOP line each and every morning.

According to your comments, westerns are qualified professionals and people of great technical ability. western are benevolent in "civilizing" the backward other nations. westerns merely assist through residency, westerns are not occupiers or oppressors. western "migrate to Australia,Newzealand, North America killing millions of aboriginal people and developing the country FOR civilized indians". Magnificent westerns!

According to your comments, aboriginal people are not developed or civilized. Apparently, aboriginal people are incapable of taking care of themselves, medically or technically. aboriginal people were never "properous" without benevolent westerns. Without westerns, aboriginal people cannot survive. After all, all the doctors, engineers and no less than 50 years of civilization would disappear. Oh dear. Of course, aboriginal people are weak willed -- falling prey to the distant mind controls of those evil "foreign" forces. Poor aboriginal people !

Thank goodness for western benevolence. Brother, can you spare a poor aboriginal people ?

With such blatant racial/cultural prejudice, can oppression of the minority really be that far behind?

Mike, got a mirror?

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Curious Seattle, WA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 06:00:47 GMT

Dont for a second believe China is so nice. It believes in using force against anyone who they say stands against harmony and unity. As long as China spouts the trash that unity must always be foremost in its society, China will continue striking with its fists against anyone who hopes for redress for wrongs done by the government. It is a farce that China is so concerned about its citizens. It is more concerned that righteous people will throw the communists out of power. Its elite intend to stay in power and use its fists against unarmed dissenters.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Luke,Beijing China — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 06:28:48 GMT

I have sent two comment regarding mike from illinois comment, where are my comments? Is msn filering or deleting it? Is that your free media? I deeply despise the MSN !!!

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

frank, new york — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 06:39:56 GMT

all the han chinese supporters are biggest liers of all if not evil they are the occupiers and uighurs can not simply survive and their kids are tortured and girls are raped by them and taken from their families to unknown places eather hanged (boys)
or sold as slaves (if you can imagine rutless mind of chinese goverment supporting)
worst of all uighur people beeing genoside in slow motion and i will not personally wach this happening
i will speak out loud and not buy chinese goods ever even i have to pay more but at least i will make sure all chinese goods are the worst goods ever built by .

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Dave Y Chongqing , China ( from WPB , Fla. ) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 07:51:15 GMT

Get off this communist party crap , all China is doing is trying to keep a moderate control of 1.4 billion people , what other nation that is as old as China and with as many people can do what they have succeded to accomplish just in the last 10 years ? The answer is none ! Notice , no world power has the balls to screw with China and nobody ever will , China has its --it together and don't think for a minute is doesn't . When they have a problem , they handle it there way and it works . Who is the rest of the world to critisize ? these people wrote the book , maybe we should take heed from them , they have been around a whole lot longer than anyone else. Respect these people , they deserve it and have earned it !

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

cancan — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 07:52:19 GMT

It is true that China still faces many challenges when dealing with such sensitive issues.Leading a country with 56 peoples for just a few decade is never easy for the government.They did make some mistakes,but it is also unfair to ignore their efforts and achievements!
As for the riot this time,no matter how "reasonable" the cause was,the killing was obviously wrong and should be blamed.Life must be respected in the first place,right?
The task of journalists is to let people know facts rather than showing too much own judgement or emotion,especially when these opinions are not that true.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

A Han — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:12:13 GMT

There was about 150 Hans killed to 45 Uighurs killed, almost 4 times the amount. To say the Uighurs are the victims is an insult. The Uighur leaders that instigated this riot should be broght to justice.

A Han

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

GB,Beijing,China — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:19:38 GMT

I just wanna say u don't live in China,U don't know what is real for China,Media is just media,u don't have to highlight the point of view from western media,Chinese government has its own problem,we live here,we know better than ur reporter,but in the very moment,we support our country,we know what we are doing,Han is not eveil,and Uighurs is not the way they said,everyone has right to live,Uighurs is not right,at least this time.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Reza, USA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:31:18 GMT

The Facts are clear , when we talk about the chinese government respect for PEOPLE. ZERO is the word. The Chinese governments in the last 90 years have killed and displaced millions of its citizens regardless of race , or religion. The Chinese government shows no mercy toward its own so, dont expect them to traet others any better. Pay attention how the chinese government has been backing the Islamic Regime occupying Iran or how they have supported the criminal Bashir regime in Sudan, its all the same "Birds of a feather flock togather" China is a sad state. Hope it get better in the next 100 years.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

ricky — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:06:26 GMT

no matter what, killing people is not correct.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Ricky, shenzhen, china — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:20:01 GMT

i am a Han people, in my opinion, it is not correct to take other people's life by voilence. if the Uighurs is not satisfied with what they are treated now, they can do whatever they want, but in case voilence is allowed.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

jwc, Northern Va USA — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:36:32 GMT

ANCA, you can now report back to your corrupt, racist, Chinese masters that you've done your part for the party.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

A Canadian, in Shanghai — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:48:23 GMT

Tibetan, There are said to be millions of Han Chinese university graduates that cannot find appropriate jobs, do we blame the Tibetans or the Uighurs? If not then why blame the Hans for some Uighurs who cannot find jobs? It's like balming the whites for American black university graduates who are unemployed. By the way, Muslim Uighurs do not own Xinjiang, they are late comers to Xinjiang compared to th Hans.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

A Canadian, in Shanghai — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:07:51 GMT

For those who still thinbk the Han chinese are occupiers or invaders, here is some history: the Hans settled in Xinjiang more than two thousand years ago, before the muslim Uighurs moved to Xinjiang 700 hundred years ago. Why do people call the Muslim new comers as if they were the aboriginals?

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

yong,tianjin,china — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:22:58 GMT

i think as a journalist,u should be ashamed!
You wrote very very twisted stories about the riot happened in xinjiang.
I feel sorry for you,you are just a bigot,ignorant dog who follows stereotype.
I dont think it is rude to call you dog though.

Urumqi: From riots to a beauty contest

Columbus, OH — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:36:11 GMT

This reporter is a biased guy. You should be shamed not to report facts about who started killings and rioting. You have lost your morale. I have been in US for a while. I have not seen many lative indians in the cities which I have studies and worked. Do you think that the Affimative actions work for American Indians? Should the US government force every company to hire those unqualified American Indians? If you are a businees owner, you will understand that is equal to forced bankruptcy. As I know, many Uighurs in Chinese companies and government are not qulified to do their jobs. They are there because the government wants to treat them well. It is a shame those Uighurs who do not receive favorable treatments started the riot and killing. If Uighurs were in US, they would do the same.