Appleton puts up mobile message board near controversial sign

The city of Appleton puts up its own sign near a controversial sign along North Richmond Street.

The message board on the side of the building is using a gay slur and has drawn criticism from some residents.

On Friday the city put up a mobile board with a message expressing support for “dignity and respect” and that “hate has no home here”.

In a Twitter post, Mayor Jake Woodford says the offending sign is on private property and is protected by the First Amendment right to free speech.

Appleton Police Chief Todd Thomas shared this statement with WHBY, “Public messages and statements that make any community member feel threatened or disrespected is not acceptable and we are proud of our city’s community statement. First Amendment rights apply to all of us, and with that right we believe there is also a responsibility take ownership of your words, we are proud of ours.”

A community group is planning a demonstration in the 200 block of North Richmond Street from two to four on Saturday.