Don't you think it is getting beyond ridiculous that NSW is considering (if not already passed a law) to prevent people from wearing a t-shirt with a slogan that is "anti-Catholic"...or has a message that goes against what Catholic's believe in, and thereby finding it offensive?
In the SMH today:
Police and volunteers from the State Emergency Service and Rural Fire Service will be able to direct people to cease engaging in conduct that "causes annoyance or inconvenience to participants in a World Youth Day event".
People who fail to comply will be subject to a $5500 fine.
People who fail to comply will be subject to a $5500 fine.
Be wary, those in and around the city during this period...you don't want to forget about this event and be seen with a t-shirt with a slogan on it that could be deemed offensive, in front of a World Youth Day participant. You might find yourself being body searched by the police and handed a fine for $5,500. Later on, well after the event, you will find yourself in court wondering what it was that you had really done wrong to begin with to find yourself in such a situation. Because, afterall "causes annoyance and inconvenience" is a broad statement!
Now, what about the offense the World Youth Day is to all those who are not participating? The offense to all the people who do not believe in Catholism. Its not really about the religion, I'm actually more concerned about the principle. The idea that I need to be careful about NOT offending someone else with something that I might believe in or feel strongly about - it's just crazy!
Don't we live in a society where we live by the freedom to think, speak, and believe what we want without having to worry about getting fined for it?
FYI - The law applies to more than 40 city locations, including museums, galleries and cinemas, as well as Darling Harbour, the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Randwick Racecourse and parklands.
Check the news or smh.com.au for further details.
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