Recently, a Referendum 47 yard sign in support of Marriage Equality was removed from our property. We are deeply disappointed in the lack of respect this displayed for first amendment rights and the wider political debate.

My husband and I moved to Kirkland from a community where political yard signs were routinely stolen and defaced. We sincerely hope that Kirkland is a community that is more thoughtful about the the democratic process and values productive discussion over cheap shots and petty theft. It was in this spirit that we erected the sign to inspire our neighbors to think critically about the upcoming election. We will remain optimistic that the person responsible for this theft has a value system and approach to politics that is the exception and not the rule in our town.

Pamella Minkler, Kirkland