There is a large, prominent sign on the front porch of a home on the main highway into Barre with the words “F JOE BIDEN.” In small letters the sign claims to be protected speech under the First Amendment. I disagree.

Defining appropriate limits on free speech have often been subjective. In 1964 Supreme Court Justice, Stephen Potter couldn’t explicitly define obscenity exceeding the First Amendment but said, “I know it when I see it.”

It has been well-settled that symbols like the Nazi swastika, burning cross, white robe and cone cap, are unacceptable hate symbols violating the First Amendment. The Biden sign is equally hateful. It promotes harm to a U.S. president. The “F” word suggests violence. The sign is not a political expression. It is pure hate.

Violent acts in the U.S. have significantly increased. Residents at the scene of violent crimes often act surprised at what happened in their neighborhood. But is it really any wonder when hate speech goes on and on, supposedly protected by the First Amendment. It creates a toxic, hostile environment fostering violence. It sets a very bad example.

Imagine what must go through the minds of Barre kids as they see the Biden sign on their way to school every day. Maybe they should address their teachers in a similar fashion. After all, if it’s OK to display on a sign, it must be OK to say.

It’s time for reason. Silence in response to situations like the Biden sign implies acceptance. It’s time for our leaders to show courage and say “take the sign down.” More importantly, teaching our kids by example, by saying “no way” to people displaying such messages or similar hate expressions, is part of the long-term process of reducing violence and restoring civility and respect to our culture.

Paul Gallo 

Barre

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