Event to promote satire and freedom of expression

On Friday, May 15, local artists will be gathering at The Boulevard Market for “Je Suis Charlie: Tecumseh,” an event about satire, and the freedom of expression, according to event organizer and local artist Gregg Perez. “I’ve done events in the past that are a little edgy,” Perez said. “I think there is a little bit of the community that likes that. This will be one of those events. It’s meant to be a fun event.”The idea for the art show came out of the Charlie Hebdo massacre in Paris where 11 were killed at the satirical newspaper. “I want to support free speech some how,” added Perez. “It is controversial to promote an event like this.” Perez said the event isn’t about Muslim bashing. “It’s more about satire, and, if anything, educating the public on what satire is. If we can get people talking about satire, the main thing art does — that’s what it’s all about.” On Facebook, Perez said he shared slides about what satire his and how to do it properly. “You don’t have to be a jerk or obnoxious or profane,” Perez added. “Just because you have the right doesn’t mean you really should do it. You have to have some sort of restraint. You have to be your own editor and know your audience. You don’t have to be a provocateur.”Perez advertised the event on Facebook, calling for artists to participate and submit works. As of last Friday, May 8, Perez said he had six confirmed artists showing their work. “I put it out there to see how many would grab at it,” Perez added. “I know there’s a lot of people and artists talking about it. You don’t really know what is going to happen.” Perez said the threat of backlash for the event is in the back of his mind and added some likely won’t attend because they may be afraid for that reason. “As far as being afraid, I’m not.” Perez said. “If anybody comes to this event with that in their mind, I hope they come and see artwork that probably has nothing to with the Muslim faith. This is meant to be fun.”Perez said he’s done events in the past at The Boulevard Market’s co-owner Erika Aylward, who owns the store with her husband John. The event runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at The Boulevard Market, 102 E. Chicago Blvd., Tecumseh.