The home as political statement

For some Southern Californians, it's time to pull candidates' signs from the frontyard now that the June election has passed. But for an outspoken few, the campaign won't end — not when lawns, windows and rooftops provide a place to make political or social statements all year round.

Pasadena residents Patrick Briggs and Maddie Gavel have a banner in front of their home that says, "Stand up & stop the corporate de$truction of America!" — just the latest in a years-long effort. The couple first fought for their right to express themselves on home turf in 2005. When the city forced them to remove a 6-by-8-foot banner protesting the Iraq war — it read, "Bush lied. People died" — Briggs and Gavel, with the ACLU — sued the city and won.

Since then, their signs have expressed any number of opinions, including protest of government wiretapping and support for healthcare reform.

Read more about the Briggs and others like them who use their homes to make political statements throughout the year here. 

-- Audrey Davidow

Become a fan: Don't want to miss a single L.A. at Home design headline or sales alert? Click on over to our Facebook page.

Photo: Maddie Gavel stands in front of the Pasadena house she shares with Patrick Briggs. Photo credit: Patrick Briggs.

Comments

[Eva]

So how do the neighbors feel? I thought it was "think globally, act locally"--these people don't give a hoot about their own block, just about advertising their thoughts and views.

[Patrick]

Actually Eva, you missed the point of article. Using one's home to raise awareness of important issues is helping build community. It creates discussion and hopefully dialogue.

The idea that we must not bring up politics or religion in polite company or to not put up a political sign of any type on one's property because it might create controversy is living in fear. It misses a chance to talk about issues that get at the very meaning of life.

There are far too many fearful, apathetic neighbors out there. Next time you see a sign out there in someone's yard, why not try asking them why it's there and give your own views. That is a big reason it's there. Join your community.

[Linda]

I'm just glad those narcissists don't live on my block -- what a way to crash property values! Incredibly self-absorbed of them to think their views are so righteous that absolutely everybody must hear/see them 24/7...Most of us prefer our homes and neighborhoods to be a refuge from the clangor of politics -- we chat about our roses, exchange backyard fruits and veggies, lend each other a hand with DIY projects -- and, most important for people who must live in the close proximity of the suburbs, we give one another the respect of peaceful personal space. We may not be good partisans, but we are very good neighbors!

[Patrick]

Linda,

http://greeneggsandham.org/wordpress/?p=563

See above comment too....and then let me know if you think we are still narcisstic.

Regards,

Patrick

[angry hippie]

People put up flags of the country there from or the sports team they love.
They should be able to put what they want on there house . There is no difference!!!!!!!