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An ordinance that would have affected re-enactors participating in
parades, ceremonies and events was on the agenda of the March 21st
meeting of the City Council in Lawrence, MA. Designed to ban edged
weapons that are capable of penetrating a police officer’s armored
vest, it also prohibits swords, bayonets and knives with a blade
longer than 2". The ordinance carries a fine of $300 per offense.
A week before the meeting the ordinance came to the attention
of board members of the Lawrence Civil War Memorial Guard. The
members responded first, by contacting the City Councilors, then
alerting other re-enactors and performing art groups that might be
affected.
At the council meeting several members of the LCWMG, including
President Lawrence West, and Vice-President Elizabeth Charlton
addressed the council on the problems that would be faced unless
the ordinance was amended. Their comments were expanded on by two
uniformed members of the guard (Sean Sweeney and Christopher
Wekelo).
Lieutenant Sean Conway, of the Lawrence Police Department also
spoke on the issue. Closing the public hearing, Council President
Patrick Blanchette, suggested an exception for re-enactors and
those in the performing arts be inserted into the ordinance.
The change was adopted by a unanimous vote of the Council.
Editor’s note: District E Councilor
Gilbert K. Frechette was on vacation and
did not take part on this vote.
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