Freedom of Speech Question

[FightingIrish]

Yesterday I had to testify on a land use issue at a city commission hearing. During a break before my testimony one of the commissioners told me that I should remove my "Veteran for Kerry" pin before I testified. He said it had to do with the city's policy against advertising. I assume that if I had been wearing an American flag pin or a ribbon advocating some cause that would be alright. Perhaps if the name on my pin had started with a "B" that might also be OK. Has anyone encountered a similar policy and has it ever been challenged in court?

[HFishbine]

1. I'd ask to see the policy

If it's not in writing, it's bullshit. If it is in writing, you can decide for yourself, but even if you insisted, you'd probably be on solid ground.

[stavka]

2. I have heard of Judges limiting expressive items...

for a whole host of reasons and across the political board.

Not knowing your State's laws (or even your state) - my gut reaction would be that any standing commission would lack any ability to request anything about dress.

If you were causing a disturbance, they would have every right ask that you be removed most places, but you would have to be causing a disturbance.

Something expressing your political opinion is not commercial advertising.

If so - do they ask that crucifix jewelry be removed? - do they ask that all brand names be removed or taped over, do they require commercial applicants to use an alias like "applicant B12" rather than "Sunny grove Condominiums"? - I could go on.....

[HFishbine]

4. I like

the way you think!

[DemBones DemBones]

3. Check into it. Call and ask for written proof that

this guy wasn't just talking out of his hat. If it's not written policy, then call the newspaper, local TV, etc. If it IS written policy, still call the newspaper, local TV, etc., and ask how such a policy can exist in a democracy.

We can't put up with free speech restrictions like this.

:grr:


(It would, of course, be even better if you could get proof that Bush* buttons are allowed but that could be difficult.)

And welcome to DU! :hi: