'We love free speech' campaign defies ban

SYDNEY — On November 10, a Sydney City Council ban on bill postering came into effect — and was immediately defied.

On that day, the 'We love free speech — Stop the poster ban' campaign protested by putting up posters on the street outside Sydney Town Hall.

The day before, NSW police commissioner Andrew Scipione had said that 'people walking through streets just covered in posters may feel like they are in a dangerous situation', and that the crackdown, which involves fines of up to $750 for individuals who put up a poster in a public place, is about 'making people feel like they are being looked after'. This ludicrous statement was lampooned by Greens councillors Irene Doutney and Chris Harris at the protest action. The campaigners point out that bill postering helps to advertise important public events and it is a basic democratic right.

To support the campaign, phone Alex on 0413 976 638 or Diane on 0413 003 148, or visit http://www.socialistalliancesydney.blogspot.com/.

From GLW issue 775