Signs of the Times

Lawn signs have always been a way to show those in your neighborhood what you believe in without direct face-to-face conversation. Though they have always existed, usually popping up during elections or remaining for years at a time when showing support to different communities, recently, in the midst of a pandemic where any direct communications is limited if not nonexistent, there has been a rise of signs and banners in neighborhoods as residents find a way to still communicate their beliefs, political or social, and hopes for unity in the pandemic to those in their community. The following photos were taken in the Mar Vista and Santa Monica neighborhoods of Los Angeles County.

In the midst of a pandemic, there is arguably a shared feeling of hopelessness amongst the world. In hopes of showing support and love to their community and lifting the spirits of their neighbors, many residents are choosing to paint or create signs and banners that show messages of encouragement. Though they cannot knock on their neighbors’ doors and invite them out for coffee to brighten up their days because of the risk of infection, they have still found a way to show their neighborhood that they wish for a sense of community and support while everyone deals with their own struggles caused by the pandemic. 

The signs being put up don’t pertain solely to the pandemic. There is a new influx of signs that show support to social movements, such as Black Lives Matter, which saw a boom in the summer of 2020, and to inclusivity of every community.

With the recent 2020 election, there have also been lawn signs put up in front of houses that show political opinions and favored candidates. Though these photographs encompass blocks across Mar Vista and Santa Monica, the only candidate signs to be found are in support of President Biden and Vice President Harris.