Politically Motivated Ban At Library Raises Ire

Chair of Nassau County Board of Assessors "Banned" at Franklin Square Public Library; Residents Urged To Show Support For Right To Be Heard

In what is surely the most bizzare move thus far in this campaign season, the Trustees of the Franklin Square Public Library have "uninvited" the Chair of the Nassau County Board of Assessors, Harvey Levinson, as a public speaker. Levinson, who is the Democratic candidate for Hempstead Town Supervisor, is scheduled to speak at the Library on the issue of the Reassessment and its ramifications this Thursday, September 15th, at 7 PM.

While official word as to the basis of the Library Board's recission of the invite has not been forthcoming, several reliable sources have informed The Community Alliance that at least one Library Trustee, a Republican Committeeman, objected to Levinson's appearance at and use of the library as "too political."

Most disconcerting in what appears to be a politically motivated ban on the use of a public facility by a public official, is that this same Board had invited Hempstead Town Receiver of Taxes, Don Clavin, a Republican, to speak at the Library in August. Mr. Clavin's appearance was not challenged, and he spoke at the Franklin Square Public Library without incident.

Levinson, protesting the Library Board's decision to ban his appearance, advised the Trustees of the Franklin Square Library (in a letter to the Director) that he intends to go forward with the forum on September 15th, as scheduled.

Regardless of Party affiliation or, for that matter, of expressed viewpoint, everyone has the right to be heard in a public forum - and a public facility open to one elected official (who also happens to be a candidate for public office), must be open to all.

Whether or not you agree with what Harvey Levinson - or any guest speaker - has to say, you must defend vigorously his right to say it.

Residents are urged to show their support for Harvey Levinson's right to be heard at the Franklin Square Public Library by coming out to the Library (19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square) on Thursday, September 15, 2005 at 7 PM.

Stand up for the right of freedom of speech. Stand firm in your support of equal access to public facilities. Stare down those who would suppress our freedoms for their own self-benefit and political gain!