HOAs deny opposition free speech

This morning on CNN Michael Smerconish discussed the question of free speech with respect to disagreeing with a position.  In this highly sensitive environment too often a disagreement with a position evokes an angry demand to remove or not publish the statement. That is not free speech but, as Smerconish said, “my-speech.”  It is not asking for agreement but free speech – let the other person have his say. Let a dialogue ensue which is a must for a healthy democracy.

In the culture of the HOA-Land Nation, any opposition to, or criticism of, the HOA or its board of directors is too often met with angry condemnation, character assassination, ostracization, and the non-publishing of the opposition voice. Some HOAs give the appearance of concern but  only provide token  Q & A dialogues with no real exchange of the issues. This open opposition to free speech is endemic to the HOA-Land culture and reflects an undemocratic, authoritarian cult-like environment.

Problems with HOAs, as we are all aware of, cannot be resolved when member criticism and opposition is squelched as a matter of policy.  Until the members say, “enough is enough” and demand constitutional reforms the problems will continue unresolved.