Pitt County Sign Controversy Sparks Debate on Social Media
Outrage Over a Neighborhood Sign
In the seemingly quiet neighborhood of Pitt County, North Carolina, a sign in Douglas Dietrich’s yard, reading “BUILD THE WALL. DEPORT THEM ALL. TRUMP START WITH MY NEIGHBORHOOD FIRST,” has drawn significant attention and sparked outrage on social media platforms. According to WITN, this sign has become a flashpoint for discussions on immigration and racial tension in the area.
Dispute with Local Business
The sign specifically targets Monkey’s Garage, a business owned by Enrique Garfias, a legal U.S. citizen whom Dietrich claims is operating illegally. Dietrich’s sentiments reflect his discontent with illegal immigration and what he perceives as unfair treatment in local zoning laws, echoing his frustrations about not being able to establish a business in the same location years earlier.
Social Media Backlash
Posts circulating on Facebook criticize the sign as hateful and prejudiced, leading to extensive online debates. Garfias, on the receiving end of the sign’s message, expressed his frustration, highlighting that such actions only contribute to existing racial tensions. “I don’t hate him. He can do whatever he wants,” Garfias remarked, underscoring the divisive nature of Dietrich’s actions.
Legal Ramifications
Town officials have entered the fray, stating the sign violates a local zoning ordinance, which mandates permits for any erected sign. Dietrich has since applied for a permit following a violation notice. Despite the legal challenges, he remains defiant, considering adding even more signs to express his views.
Permits and Past Promises
Dietrich argues that racial bias has played a role in the discrepancy between his denied business opportunity and the current operation of Monkey’s Garage. However, the town manager clarifies that the garage operates legally due to a grandfather clause allowing its business use in a residential zone— a provision that Dietrich claims was ignored during his earlier attempts to acquire a permit.
A Community Divided
The incident encapsulates the complex layers of ethnicity, legality, and individual grievances present in small communities. As the debate continues to unfold publicly, it remains to be seen how the Pitt County community will navigate these challenging social dynamics and differing perspectives.
