A few residents in Sioux Center have contacted local officials to complain about a message displayed on a Trump 2020 flag in town.
The message is simple:
“Trump 2020. No more bullshit.”
Enough concern came in that mayor Dave Krahling discussed the concerns at the beginning of a city council meeting.
One email to the council members started with many positive comments about Sioux Center, before bringing up the Trump flag.
“Someone pointed out to me that there is a political sign on 4th Avenue (west side) that is not in keeping with our town’s values,” the person wrote. “I don’t believe we want our children, students, visitors and citizens to think that such language and attitudes are acceptable. We need to respect our candidates, no matter how we vote. As a matter of fact, this shows disrespect for all human beings.”
The person noted they weren’t sure how to resolve the concern — pondering if it is a matter for the police department, the new officer in charge of ordinances or if such a flag is protected under free speech.
“I don’t need a response,” they wrote. “It is comfort enough to know that you are aware of the situation. I am confident that if there is anything that can be done, it will be done.”
Another email was sent by multiple people as it starts by saying, “we are writing with concerns about signs around Sioux Center.”
“First, we believe that all signs, including political ones, should stay within community norms of decency,” the group wrote. “The sign ‘Trump 2020–Stop the bullshit’ as displayed on a home on 4th Avenue does not meet that standard. This sign is offensive to neighbors and to all of us who drive by, including buses from both Sioux Center Christian School and Sioux Center Community Schools. Please do not allow signs like that one in our town.”
The third email came from a teacher in Sioux Center.
“As a teacher in our town who teaches kids every day to express opinions in a respectful manner, I am concerned about some Trump signs in town that include inappropriate language,” they wrote. “Is this something that can be addressed by the council? I’m just very concerned about the message we are sending to our kids in our community.”
No action is expected to be taken by the city.
