Why I Oppose the 'National Flag Desecration Law'—From the Perspective of Art That Has Depicted the Hinomaru (Text: Tsugio Kuresawa)
An art critic argues against Japan's new National Flag Desecration Law, citing threats to freedom of expression from an art perspective.Summary
Art critic Tsugio Kuresawa, who signed a joint statement opposing Japan's National Flag Desecration Law implemented in August 2024, explains his reasons from the viewpoint of art that has depicted the Hinomaru (Japanese national flag). He questions who decides what constitutes "extremely offensive" or "disgusting" behavior and notes the lack of clear legislative facts, such as widespread public desecration cases, justifying the law. He argues that existing laws on property damage suffice and questions the need for a specific law targeting only the national flag. Referencing contemporary art works like Yukinori Yanagi's "Hinomaru Illumination" and "The World Flag Ant Farm," Kuresawa draws parallels to the 1999 debate over the National Flag and Anthem Law. He contends that the new law is an implicit admission that legal enforcement has failed to foster public respect for the flag over the past quarter-century. Furthermore, he warns that unchecked escalation could lead to similar restrictions on the national anthem, "Kimigayo," stifling artistic expression and arrangement.
(Source：Tokyo Art Beat)