It’s election season and the Old Lyme Democratic Town Committee strongly supports the First Amendment right to free speech and will oppose any attempts to suppress this right.

On Sept. 9, an individual stole a ‘Harris for President’ sign from private property, an act that goes beyond theft; it infringes on our freedom to express political support. Signs not only cost money, but represent our democratic rights. Also, on Sept. 9, the Historic District Commission (HDC) approved new signage guidelines restricting wire stick signs within the historic district. The discussions leading up to this vote were centered on limiting political signs, though such signage has been part of Lyme Street’s history since 1900. These new guidelines risk infringing on constitutional freedoms and may expose the town to legal challenges.

We urge residents of Old Lyme to remember that political expression, through signs or conversation, is essential to democracy. Silencing voices, whether through theft or restrictions, threatens the freedoms on which our nation was built. The Old Lyme Democratic Town Committee remains committed to defending these rights and ensuring that all voices are heard.

Kim Thompson

Old Lyme

Editor’s note: The writer is chair of the Old Lyme Democratic Town Committee.