As an independent newspaper, Ruckus understands the importance of free speech and low-cost accessibility to public forums. That is why we are so glad to see the folks at Free Speech Seattle challenging Seattle's city-wide poster ban that has been in place since 1994. If passed, I-46 would strike a blow for free speech by removing the words "utility pole" and "lamp post" from SMC 15.48.100, repealing the ban on postering on these surfaces.
In the days before the poster ban, one could walk down the streets and take Seattle's pulse: lost cats, punk shows, garage sales, and political manifestos. The poster ban stifles our city's cultural life and inhibits community-building. It has been particularly harmful to Seattle's music scene, especially for independent bands and shows.
Most disturbingly, the ban does not affect all Seattle citizens evenly. The rich and super-rich generally do not use posters on utility poles to communicate ideas. They have access to a wide range of media, from billboards to television to the City Council's proposed bus stop ads. The average American sees 400 to 600 ads each day. Surely the citizens of Seattle who are not lucky enough to get a public access show and who cannot afford access to corporate media should have the opportunity to be a lamppost pundit or even to sell lame diet plans.
The easiest way to help pass I-46 is to register to vote and to sign the initiative petition. If Free Speech Seattle gathers 18,830 valid signatures by August 24 the City Council will have 45 days to enact the new ordinance or put it on the ballot at the Nov. 2nd election or a special election.
You can also get involved with Free Speech Seattle by attending one of their meetings, which are held every Saturday at noon at the Hi Score Arcade, 612 E. Pine on Capitol Hill. You can contact Free Speech Seattle by email: info@freespeechseattle.org or phone: (206) 781-7371. Their website is www.freespeechseattle.org.