Stand up against yard-sign thefts

You know you are in a contentious election season when candidate yard signs are stolen.

On Friday night, more than 50 such yard signs for Nabeela Syed, candidate for Illinois state Senate were taken from yards throughout Barrington proper under cover of darkness.

Stealing yard signs is considered theft in Illinois. In large enough quantities, it could be a felony.

Posting yard signs in the election cycle is a time-honored tradition. It represents an essential part of our democracy. We have entered dangerous territory indeed, when neighbors can no longer tolerate the political expressions of fellow residents. I don’t care which party you affiliate with - every person has a right to express their support for the candidate of their choice.

For those who have had yard signs stolen, speak up and report. For those who may have captured the thief on a security device, send it to the Barrington police so there is a central repository of evidence. If you had a sign stolen, request replacement. If you did not have a sign and you abhor this kind of behavior, order a sign as an act of resistance.

Now is the time to stand up for democracy. In the spirit of supporting free speech, and sending a message that criminal behavior will not be tolerated,.

Senator Darby Hills has an opportunity to stand with democracy and speak out against this kind of criminal behavior. One way to send a clear message would be for the Hills’ campaign to make a contribution to Nabeela Syed’s campaign for every yard sign stolen over the weekend, and going forward until the November election is concluded.

Rachel Cook

Barrington