Olympic Torch Protests Around the World

It started in London where protesters attempted to grab the torch and snuff it out.

It continued in Paris where the torch was extinguished three times and the relay was eventually cancelled.

And today, as the torch is due to arrive in San Francisco, the only US stop on its world tour, protesters scaled the Golden Gate Bridge to unfurl banners that read "One World. One Dream. Free Tibet '08" and "Free Tibet." Awesome.

The Olympics are not supposed to be political, and one could argue that the United States—especially right at the moment in time—doesn't have a human rights record to be proud of, but I am delighted to see the Free Tibet issue getting so much attention.

I don't want anyone to get hurt and do feel kinda sorry for the torch bearers. I'm not sure what the point of trying the extinguish the torch is since there is back up flame, but at the same time,  I am really amazed at the world wide effort to protest.

Nancy Pelosi has encouraged San Franciscans and the world to protest. The Mayor of San Francisco is asking people to protest the cause and not the athletes who will be running or wheeling with the torch. If London or Paris any indication, the scene in San Francisco is going to be ugly. We're not that organized a city, trust me. And the protest is sure to test the limits of The Most Patient Police Force In The World.

I wonder if the San Francisco relay will be canceled?

Stefania Pomponi Butler not only is CityMama but she plays one on TV.