Recently, a disturbing incident unfolded in Lincoln Heights, Ohio, where individuals displayed Nazi symbols over an Interstate 75 overpass. The swastika is a universal symbol of hate, evoking painful memories of oppression, genocide, and racism. It has no place in our society, and we must unequivocally condemn such displays of bigotry.
However, as appalling as this act was, it was not illegal. In the United States, the First Amendment protects even the most offensive speech, including hate speech, as long as it does not incite imminent violence, make true threats, or amount to targeted harassment. This legal reality is difficult to accept when faced with such blatant hate, but it is a core principle of our democracy.
Yet, the answer to hate speech is not censorship—it is more speech. We must be louder, stronger, and more united in our condemnation of hatred. We must use our own voices to drown out intolerance, not with violence or illegal actions, but with overwhelming messages of unity, education, and love.
The goal of these hate groups is often to provoke an emotional, and sometimes violent, response. They want to create chaos, to make themselves appear as victims, and to exploit the legal system to their advantage. We must not fall into their trap. Resorting to violence or illegal actions against them only plays into their hands and undermines our moral and legal high ground. Instead, we should channel our anger into productive action: organizing peaceful counter-protests, educating our communities, and voting for policies that promote inclusivity and equality.
History has shown that hate thrives in silence. If we allow displays like this to go unchallenged, they fester and grow. But when we respond ”loudly, legally, and peacefully” we show that hate has no place here. The people of Lincoln Heights and surrounding communities have already set an example by gathering to reject this hateful display. That is the path forward.
Let this be a reminder: Free speech protects even the worst among us, but it also empowers the best of us to stand up and push back. We must continue to speak out—not just against hate, but for unity, understanding, and justice. The battle against hate is not won in the courts but in our communities, in our conversations, and in our unwavering commitment to building a better world.
