Lawn signs represent freedom of speech

When disagreement becomes destructive, we lose our dignity. We lose our dignity as individuals; we lose our dignity as a community.

When lawn signs are stolen under the cover of darkness — not removed, but stolen — it is not only against the law and cowardly behavior; it is also contrary to our decent comportment as a town.

Yes, folks can nail signs to trees or install cameras. Such strategies have emerged and shall undoubtedly continue. But what does this approach reflect about the spirit of a town that fought, 250 years ago, for freedom of speech and the rule of law — and where Thoreau appealed to us to resist unjust government?

What has happened to our town when “No King Then/No King Now” signs disappear from lawns? I can feel indignant and discouraged when I see signs I don’t like. Nonetheless, I do not remove them. Indeed, I become informed about the diversity of thought in our town.

Let’s all agree to learn from one another and not destructively squelch political freedom of thought.

Thank you.

Diane Proctor

Sudbury Road