By: Maggie Allwein

In an effort to make our city of Pittsburgh flourish with kindness and positive vibes, Mayor Bill Peduto has started an initiative to place 25 signs around our city that promote a “no hate” theme.  The idea was decided to honor Fred Rogers’ legacy and to continue spreading the love that the television personality once did.

Photo by: Maggie Allwein

Although these words comply a positive message, some Pittsburghers do not see it that way. On Twitter @Undoneadventure says, “I’m not against celebrating Fred Rogers…, but is it irresponsible to spend taxpayer money on these signs…”

Photo by: Maggie Allwein

Some online users may be in a bit of outrage about the cost, but according to CBS KDKA, these signs are not as expensive as the media is making them out to be. “These signs were made by our sign department that we have — using existing manpower, existing materials. They did it in one day. There are only 25 of these signs, basically, there was no cost,’” says communication director for Peduto, Tim McNulty.

Melih Özbek, a Highmark employee from Istanbul, Turkey, talked of his generally welcoming experiences in Pittsburgh.  In relation to the positive themed signs, Özbek says, “I think it’s good to raise awareness about safety.” Although he agrees that Pittsburgh is welcoming to other cultures, he knows that there is room to improve, “We are diverse in a lot of ways, but that diversity tends to be in a siloed way.”

Catie Hohman, a student at PA Leadership Charter School, has also noticed these signs placed around the city but is unsure if they will make a large impact.  “I don’t know if they necessarily improve how safe I feel in the area. I’m glad that the message is being shared that we should be inclusive of all types of people and just live in a community where we can all love one another.”

Despite Hohman thinking that these signs do spread positivity, they don’t make her feel any safer while walking alone on the streets of Pittsburgh.  But the real question is, are these the types of actions that should be taken to improve issues such as racism, sexism, or bullying? Yes, it improves morale and adds positivity to the streets of Pittsburgh, but is it truly helping our real-life issues? Nonetheless, it could surely brighten someone’s day when they need it.