Readers react to complaints about political yard signs

Political yard signs encouraging, not ‘trashy’

Dear Editor:

I must respectfully disagree with the recent letter to the editor decrying the presence of political signs that have popped up in yards around town. I do not find them to be “trashy.” On the contrary, in an era of voter apathy, I find it heartening to see people engaging in the political process, even when their views differ with my own.

I would only ask that signs reflect support of a candidate or ballot question rather than making negative or snarky remarks about the opposing side. Greater participation in the political process only makes our democracy stronger. I dream of a community where people of differing political views can engage in lively yet civil discourse about the many important issues we are wrestling with this election season. Maybe we’d all come away better informed.

As for the person who removed the Elizabeth Warren sign from my property, broke it, and threw it in the woods, I hope you will find a more constructive outlet for your political views.

Sue Harrington

No more honor code in Canton

Dear Editor:

I am responding to Ms. Annette Pietro’s letter in the October 4 edition of the Canton Citizen.

Just like Paul Revere, I left Boston under duress and relocated to Canton. It was always nice to not see all of the clutter, posted decals and bumper stickers on town signs and poles at election time. When I moved in, I kept up with the honor code and did not post any signs in my yard, and I did not block my vehicle windows with large political banners.

Suddenly, in 2008, a wave hit Canton. During the Proposition 2 ½ override scandal, thousands of signs were added on buildings, in yards, and on public property. Pro-override signs were not limited to bumper stickers, but obstructed minivan windows and covered truck bodies. The signs worked and were a big part of the victory.

The people of Canton have figured out that an issue or candidate’s popularity — and chances of winning — can be helped by posting signs. Now that they are here, they are here to stay.

There are currently no signs in my own yard. But I have not forgotten that the Proposition 2 ½ override left us with a greater tax burden forever, while also guaranteeing that we will be cheered by the colorful campaign signs at the start of each election season, as it also ended the last “honor code” in Canton.

Jim Park

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=16621

Posted by Canton Citizen on Oct 10 2012. Filed under Featured Content, From One Citizen to Another, Opinion. Both comments and pings are currently closed.