WEST BRATTLEBORO — Free speech matters.
Free speech matters so very much, that for generations, it has been at the core of both our collective values and our legal system. For many of us, the right to freedom of speech is a revered covenant.
Sadly, this is not universal.
On Sunday, Sept. 13, I was rudely reminded that for some, their fears lead to cowardly and clandestine efforts to silence the voices of others. Their fear and anger is strong enough that they are driven to disregard the right to freedom of speech and ignore our laws protecting ownership of private property.
This contempt for our social norms was exhibited by whoever declared themselves judge, jury, and police by removing a sign that reads “Black Lives Matter” from the lawn of the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community property on Greenleaf Street in West Brattleboro.
One cannot avoid coming to the conclusion that this same person is not fond of those with certain genetic traits. I find this act of censorship and invasion of private space pitifully misguided. I hope that you do as well.
While I suspect that the thief in question is not a regular reader of letters to editors, I do have a message that I hope will somehow reach them: you are forgiven.
The return of our sign will be greatly appreciated. Likewise, we would appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns in dialogue.
We will not tolerate such acts of intimidation. We know all too well the horrific results that can plague us once fear is allowed to dominate.
We also know that the troubled souls who resort to attempts to dominate others need compassion, not contempt.
I dearly hope that in response to our replacing the sign, whoever is responsible will take a more civil tack toward engagement with their neighbors.