✊ Fighting for Free Speech in Dickinson County

On September 8, 2025, I was denied my right to speak during Citizens Time at the Dickinson County Board of Commissioners meeting.

Board Chair Dan Harrington repeatedly conditioned my speech on removing my hat. When I calmly asked him to cite a written rule and stated I would comply immediately if one existed, he refused. Instead, he ordered the Sheriff, Aaron Rochon, to remove me.

Sheriff Rochon threatened me with “disorderly conduct,” despite the fact that I was calm, respectful, and following all posted rules. After I exited the meeting room and began filming from the hallway, he again confronted me, stepped into my space, and threatened me with arrest.

This is about MUCH MORE than a hat.

This is about silencing dissent.

This is about abuse of power.

This is about our First and Fourteenth Amendment rights.

I have already served evidence preservation letters, and a civil rights law firm has agreed to take my case!

But to move forward, I need help covering the initial retainer and litigation costs.

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Why This Case Matters

If they can silence me for wearing a hat, they can silence anyone for any reason.

Local governments must not be allowed to weaponize law enforcement to suppress speech.

This case could set a powerful precedent for citizens across Michigan and beyond.

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How You Can Help

Contribute what you can! Every $10, $25, $50 helps move this case forward.

Share this fundraiser widely! Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more!

Help spread the word: Free Speech is not optional!

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Giving Back

Any money raised over the needed amounts for representation and litigation will be donated to our local 4H program. Yes, the very program the Board previously tried to defund.

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See the coverage of this story above!

All funds will go directly toward legal representation and litigation expenses.

Together, we can make sure Dickinson County officials are held accountable, and ensure that no citizen is silenced for speaking truth to power!

✊ Thank you for standing with me.

Jason Gibbs

Iron Mountain, MI