(Metro Creative Graphics/File Photo)

(Metro Creative Graphics/File Photo)

Photo: (Metro Creative Graphics/File Photo)

(Metro Creative Graphics/File Photo)

(Metro Creative Graphics/File Photo)

Letter:A sad sign of the times

To the Editor:

Recently, there has been a widespread movement in several counties in the Thumb where political candidate yard signs affiliated with the Democratic Party have been taken from private properties. According to many residents, the Port Austin area has been targeted. And to be fair, I have heard from Republicans that their signs are being stolen too in the Elkton area. This is unacceptable behavior by anyone involved in this taking of personal property.

These antics have been going on for years from all parties. That does not make it right. In todays political climate, where we are in serious need for more civility and courtesy, our patience and tolerance is waning.

Political signage, and in a broader sense our First Amendment right, affords all of us, right and left, freedom of speech and expression. I ask that you please be vigilant and watch out for the theft of political signs. Some property owners have gone to extreme measures to protect their signs: trail-cams, locks on flagpoles, and bringing signs in at night.

There is an all too common perception that removing a political sign from someone's private property is a matter of no legal concern. On the contrary, it is a theft. Its stealing, plain and simple. Our local peace officers have better things to do than chasing down sign thieves.

The right to endorse and promote our candidates is a large part of election campaigns. A hallmark of our rural communities is yard signs. So stop the nonsense, Huron County.

Respect your neighbors and their right to free speech. Speak up when violated and by any means necessary, vote.

Charles Henry

Caseville

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Letter: A sad sign of the times - Huron Daily Tribune