“They seem more interested in making this some kind of police statement or something about law enforcement,” he argued.
Officers declared a crime scene, temporarily closed the bar and seized all five posters. Live performances were canceled and patrons were kicked out for several hours.
Mr Howe said he was shocked because the poster was satirical and “parody art with a clearly anti-fascist message”.
“I couldn’t understand how you could assume anything else,” he said.
“I was shocked and surprised. I don’t think their reactions and actions were justified.”
Howe said the posters have been up for a month and have received positive responses.
ACT Police said in a statement: “Our investigation into the poster continues, including seeking legal advice regarding the legality of the poster.”
“ACT Policing remains committed to swiftly and thoroughly addressing incidents of suspected anti-Semitism, racism or hate, and will not hesitate to take appropriate action when a potential crime is identified.”
UK-based protest art group Grow Up Art, which created the poster, said the artwork was “satirical”.
“We fully support the freedom of speech of dissenting cafes and bars that condemn fascists,” the group said in a statement.
“The police have lost their sense of humor and are completely wasting everyone’s time (understandably so) but I appreciate the free promotion because now everyone is starting to share my protest artwork all over Canberra.”
Murrumbidgee Labor MP Marisa Patterson said she was in contact with ACT Police for an explanation of the circumstances that occurred.
“I will continue to seek advice from ACT Police on the application of this federal law,” she said in a statement.
Kurrajong independent MP Thomas Emmerson has also written to the police minister asking for an explanation, saying territorial and federal law makes clear it is not a crime to publicly display a swastika if it is used for artistic purposes.
“This seems pretty Orwellian to me,” he said.
“Art seeks to provoke and challenge us.
“If we are to promote social harmony by preventing crime, we cannot afford to create more division. Government repression of artistic expression and dissent is incredibly divisive.”
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