Task force missing the mark on sign issue

Christine Holbert, president of the Bonner County Human Rights Task Force, wrote a Nov. 20 letter to the editor ("Threats no protected under free speech laws") addressing Mr. Germana's sign about a public hanging.

I found the letter unnerving … and from a group I support!

The human rights task force has commendable objectives. I have attended their meetings in the past and spoken in praise of individual rights and Martin Luther King Jr.

But free speech — a basic human right — is not advanced by intolerance, a willingness to censor and the forceful suppression of opponents.

The task force is confusing where free speech ends and harm begins. I was taught that free speech ends when someone yells "fire" in a crowded movie theater that is not on fire. This is illegal because people could be harmed as they try to flee the theater.

Our country has a long tradition of tolerance, which has allowed dissident groups to speak their mind, regardless of how offensive it may be to others. This is what makes America unique and free.

The human rights task force is calling for police action against Mr. Germana and his property. In other words, the use of force backed by guns. Those who suppress disgusting signs and free speech with guns are more dangerous than the fools who make the signs.

Instead of suppressing freedom of speech, the human rights task force should educate citizens of their constitutional rights and promote tolerance for all groups, even those with opposing opinions.

The Bonner County Sheriff and U.S. Secret Service have made the right constitutional decision to not move on Mr. Germana. Legalized violence against civilians is the instrument of totalitarian regimes, not a constitutional republic.

TOM DILLIN

Sandpoint