[CPProt.net] Protesters Rally Against Controversial Art Display

[MSN CPPnet (Ton Cremers)]

Protesters Rally Against Controversial Art Display 
July 29, 2005
A controversial art exhibit at the California Department of Justice building
brought out dozens of protesters who characterized the works as anti-America
messages of hate.

The conservative political advocacy group Move America Forward organized the
protest and an "I Love America" art exhibit in front of the building at 13th
and I Streets Thursday. 

Several dozen counter-protesters also turned out at the rally to voice their
support for the display. The clash led to many loud exchanges between
demonstrators on both sides of the controversial issue. 

Sacramento police officer were forced to step in to keep supporters and
opponents of the works separated.

The protest was in opposition to the current "A Creative Merger: Lawyers and
Artists" exhibit displayed at the Department of Justice building this month.

The exhibit of attorney-created art opened in the building's first-floor
cafeteria area two weeks ago. It includes several pieces critical of
President Bush and the American war on terrorism. The work that has
generated the most controversy depicts a flag-draped United States spiraling
down a toilet with the line "T'anks to Mr. Bush."

The painting was created by Berkeley attorney Stephen Pearcy, who made
headlines last year when he hung an effigy of an American soldier from his
Land Park home with a sign reading, "Bush Lied, I Died." 

Last week California Attorney General Bill Lockyer defended the exhibit,
noting it is but one of a series of art shows displayed at the building.
Supporters call efforts to have Pearcy's work removed censorship and a
violation of his First Amendment rights. 

Move America Forward leaders said the piece should not be displayed in a
taxpayer-funded building.