A Letter to the Mayor of Hermosa Beach

05.15.08

Dear Mr. Reviczky,

While walking along the beach today, I beheld a sign near the water that read, in bold print:

NO SWIMMING
NO WADING
SURFBOARDS ONLY

I am writing to inquire as to what, if any, justification there is to such an absurd and discriminatory rule.

Contrary to popular belief, not every beach resident is an avid surfer. Though I wish I could surf, I haven’t found the time yet to learn. I, like countless others, appreciate the beach in other ways, among which are swimming and wading.

Why should swimming and wading be illegal, and surfing acceptable? What power has the right to divest of man his right to swim, bathe, and wade in the great Pacific Ocean as freely as he pleases?

The Declaration of Independence asserts the right of every man to the pursuits of life, liberty, and happiness. Denying the rights of the people to enjoy the ocean as they see fit is in direct contradiction of the God-given rights of all men. Such an ordinance is unconstitutional, oppressive, and simply immoral.

Should a man be forced to spend $200 on a surfboard and $200 more on lessons simply so that he can enjoy the ocean freely? No, good sir, he should not. The ocean is the property of no man, government, or corporation, and as such should be freely available to the public.

I beseech you to repeal this unjust and discriminatory law, and once again allow all men, women, and children equal access to the ocean, regardless of whether or not they are privileged enough to be capable surfers.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Seamus Ryan