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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — An Indianapolis pastor said a sign in front of his church with images of a lynching and slaves in chains is meant to remind people of the importance of their voting rights.

One side of the sign outside Greater St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church features a photo of the 1930 lynching of two black men before a crowd of white people in Marion, Ind. "VOTE!!!" is written about the image, and beneath it: "Is this a reason to vote?"

Rev. Joy Thorton, who is black, said he has heard few complaints since the sign went up about a week ago.

"I think there is a sense of complacency about the price that was paid for one of the most precious rights we have, and that is the right to vote," Thornton told WRTV. "That sign serves as a historical reminder."

The sign along busy 38th Street amid a typically lower-income neighborhood on the city's east side has drawn varied reactions.

Joyce Hise, the president of nearby Discount Casket Sales, said the sign delivered an important message.

"It is disturbing, however, it's a part of history," said Hise, who is black. "It's a part of history that we have to remember."