Happy Citywide Amplified Free Speech Day!

FIX D.C. NOISE LAW NOW

Mission: We support freedom of speech AND the right to peace and quiet.

The residents of the 700 block of 8th Street NE are demonstrating the absurdity of D.C.’s broken noise law. It allows unlimited, amplified, non-commercial speech from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in any D.C. residential community. There are no limits on loudness.

The neighbors from northeast will assemble at the intersection of Wisconsin and N Streets NW in Georgetown from 3-5 p.m. Sunday, June 11.

We are following the example of one group’s regular activities nearly every Saturday at the southeast corner of H and 8th Streets NE.

The city allows them to operate a battery-powered amplifier for more than four hours unhindered at decibel levels equal to a rock concert (110 decibels). The amplifier blasts residential homes within yards of the assembled speakers. No permit is required.

We don’t advocate removing anyone from any corner. We understand people living in a city must expect a certain amount of urban noise, but we also believe in the community’s right to the pursuit of peace and quiet in one’s own home.

Please urge the D.C. city council to balance free speech with the right to peace and quiet and to take action to fix the D.C. noise law.

Contact:
D.C. Council Committee on Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Chair Jim Graham (ph: 202-724-8181; email: jgraham@dccouncil.us)

Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans (ph: 202-724-8058; email: jackevans@dccouncil.us)

Ward 6 Councilmember Sharon Ambrose (ph: 202-724-8072; email: sambrose@dccouncil.us)

Other members of the D.C. City Council.