This year, like last, the city of Creswell decided to cancel their 4th of July parade. Last year, a citizen decided to organize one to replace it. There were no issues as the parade was considered a protected activity under the 1st Ammendment as long as all traffic control were obeyed, which they were. Permits were also not needed because they were not requesting the city to block off traffic for the parade.

Fast forward to this year's cancelled city 4th of July parade. This time not one but two people each decided to organize a parade for the 4th of July. Multiple efforts were made by the city to dissuade various people/groups from participating and to interfere with this Constitutionally protected activity and organizers were threatened with fines. In accordance with the American values of living life free from arbitrary restraints, the people came together anyway to celebrate their freedom in a beautiful display of celebration of independence from tyrannical rulers over 200 years ago! Rather ironic, isn't it? No traffic violations, no tickets, no disturbances of the peace occurred, just a celebration.

On Monday, the two organizers who failed to cower to intimidation from their public servants were cited by the Sheriff's department (they are contracted by the city) for OVER $2,500 to EACH of them for "solicitating and confederating" to hold a "Prohibited Activity - Parade". In response to the city's blatant disregard of the people's right to speech, peaceful assembly, and the exercise of their basic right of LIBERTY and in addition to their intentions of punishing those who would dare assert their rights, we are holding a "Prohibited Activity" Parade in protest of the city and Sheriff department's actions. 

Details are in the flyer below that is currently being circulated. 

Until then, please also call and e-mail Scott Denham with Lane County Sheriff's office and who is also the Creswell Contract Sergeant.

scott.denham@lanecountyor.gov

541.913.1352

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