Oct 8, 2007 10:56 pm US/Pacific
Rose Parade's Beijing Games Float Incites Protests
PASADENA, Calif. (AP) ―
A handful of Chinese Americans protested the Rose Parade's decision to include a float honoring the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, arguing China's human rights record was reason to keep the country from being represented.
Demonstrators Monday carried handmade signs and held upside down roses, the same day that seven teenagers were selected to be part of the Tournament of Roses Royal Court.
Criticism has been mounting since the Tournament of Roses announced earlier this year that it will include a $400,000 float celebrating the Beijing Games.
The float is sanctioned by the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee, but is paid for by a group of wealthy Chinese American donors and a Pasadena-based label maker that has business ties with China.
Tournament of Roses officials have said they believe the float is apolitical.
The 119th Rose Parade will be held on Jan. 1, 2008. The Rose Queen, who will be chosen by the seven-member court will be announced Oct. 16.
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