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Debate over protests at Detroit Lakes Veterans Memorial Park pits free-speech advocates against veterans and nearby businesses
Summary
Dozens spoke at the city council public forum about weekly demonstrations at the Veterans Memorial Park. Veterans and residents called the demonstrations disrespectful and disruptive; demonstrators and organizers defended the protests as peaceful exercise of First Amendment rights. City attorney advised the council that content-based restrictions would likely fail in court.
A sustained public forum at the Detroit Lakes City Council meeting on April 20 brought sharply divided views over weekly demonstrations at Veterans Memorial Park, with veterans, residents and business owners urging restrictions and demonstrators and allied civic groups defending their right to protest.
Dave Nyson, regional commander for Disabled Veterans, said the demonstrations were harming the appearance and dignity of the memorial. "It is also extremely disrespectful to the individuals that gave their lives that served this country," Nyson said, describing trampling of turf and people standing on benches at the memorial.
Other veterans and residents echoed concerns about damage to landscaping, lost parking for nearby…
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