An election-related billboard in Cleveland’s Ward 5 has caused a stir, prompting some complaints that it discriminates against minority groups and felons.
The advertisement, posted at the intersection of Community College Avenue and East 35th Street, warns that “voting fraud is a felony” in bold lettering. It also states that the penalty is punishable by up to three and a half years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
The ad also shows a gavel and sound block and lists that it was paid for by a private family foundation. The billboard is operated by Clear Channel Outdoor.
Several politicians said the ad’s placement, which is near Tri-C and directly across the street from the Arbor Park 600-family development and other public housing, intimidates minority voters, students and felons who may not know their rights.
Cleveland City Councilwoman Phyllis Cleveland, who publicly complained about the billboard on Tuesday, posted a picture of the advertisement to her Twitter account. She said a resident complained to her about the sign. Cleveland wants it out of her ward.
“They usually try to push cognac and cigarettes on people here in this neighborhood, now they are trying to intimidate them to keep them from voting,” Cleveland said.
Cleveland said the ward has been a heavily canvassed area politically because voter turnout has been low in the past. She said some people could misinterpret the sign and therefore, not go to the polls on Nov. 6.Keep reading…