The town counsel has recommended that the Yankee Doodle Homecoming go politics free. Using the right to free speech, counsel has made the determination that the YDHC has the right to exclude speech and conduct that runs in a contravening manner to the intent of the event. I believe this to be true, as well, so long as care is taken to exclude ALL forms of political advertising, booths and displays. Acceptance of one group opens the door to all groups, no matter how wacky or out of favor they may be; not to mention law suits. The full story about the town lawyer’s conclusion can be found in the Lowell Sun Online, here:

There’s nothing more reassuring than settled law, and since a similar case was decided by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), the volunteer committee should be feeling mighty reassured about being able to concentrate on more pressing matters, so long as they adhere to the strict standards of equal opportunity and fairness and the hazards of discrimination. Congratulations and best wishes to the fine volunteers and outstanding citizens who put this marvelous event on, year after year.