Local Engagement

Local Engagement

Candidate signs have been popping up all over Bloomington. Though there are no state or federal races, and thus no big national stories, the many yard signs remind people there is an election coming. At least, depending on where you live, they remind you. In some areas, signs are noticeably absent. According to the Indiana Election Division, political signs may not be placed on any other person's property without permission from the property owner. This seems like a reasonable rule. It is a reasonable rule, but it also means that a huge subset of the Bloomington population - those who rent their apartments or homes- may be unable to post a political sign.

This gives a false impression that renters aren't interested in exercising their right to vote.

This goes beyond election politics to include any other sign you might ever see in a yard-support for local teachers or schools, Black Lives Matter, peace and justice, cultural acceptance, rainbow flags, etc.

This probably most effects people who live in multi-family units-i.e. apartment complexes, and it gives the impression, as you move around Bloomington, that the people who care about social issues and elections are the people who live in single family homes. This is an inaccurate picture and all citizens and candidates should be mindful that tenants care, they vote and their voice and view of issues is just as valuable and in need of consideration as property owners.