Pence protesters win free speech fight over St. Patrick’s parade

SAVANNAH, GA. — Protesters seeking to carry signs in an area being secured for U.S. Vice-President Mike Pence to participate in the South’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parade, won a brisk free speech fight Friday as city officials backed off prohibiting signs and posters at the event.

City officials reversed course and announced signs would be allowed immediately after the American Civil Liberties Union filed a federal lawsuit Friday morning against City Hall, saying a blanket sign ban during Pence’s visit would violate the speech rights of parade goers.

“It’s a great day for the First Amendment,” said Will Claiborne, a Savannah attorney who joined the ACLU in filing the suit. “We want everyone in the city of Savannah to come out and let their voices be heard.”

Pence is expected to join 500,000 or more people Saturday celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in one of the South’s biggest street parties after Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Security plans include requiring parade goers to pass through metal detectors in an area covering a dozen square blocks .

People entering the secure zone won’t be allowed to bring coolers, folding chairs or backpacks. Savannah city spokesperson Michelle Gavin told reporters the list was based on security measures the Secret Service has imposed at similar high-profile events such as the presidential inauguration.

“There was no intent to infringe on anyone’s rights at all,” Gavin said. “This was just some misinformation that was put out based on miscommunication with the Secret Service.”