To carry on with the Games as if nothing is wrong in China is a serious blow to human rights and those who fight to uphold them.

Steven Spielberg recognized this and withdrew from his role as an artistic adviser to the Games’ opening and closing ceremonies. According to the Wall Street Journal, Spielberg cited “China’s connection to the government in Sudan and the controversy over Darfur.” Good for Spielberg.

“About the only justification for participating in the Beijing Games is that it offers an opportunity to encourage more awareness about human rights,” says Lord Alton.

The Games will go on. But to paraphrase Alton, the only justification for watching them will be for American viewers to raise the human-rights issue in letters-to-the-editor, speaking with lawmakers and Olympic sponsors, and shining a spotlight on Chinese repression.

Even if our athletes can not speak out—and I bet some will—we can. And we must.