The owner of a large, pro-immigrant billboard in Manassas is taking it down before a court hearing that could have forced the sign's removal.

The 12-by-40-foot sign on Guadencio Fernandez's property was built more than a year ago in a residential area. Fernandez wanted to protest what he called "racist" policies that target illegal immigrants in Prince William County.

Friends and supporters gathered Thursday night to help him remove the billboard.

Some have complained they were offended by the billboard's evocations of slavery and genocide. Manassas city officials have cited Fernandez for failing to obtain a proper permit. They also accused him of allowing garbage, rodents and snakes to make the site an eyesore.

Mayor Harry "Hal" Parrish II says they hold freedom of speech dear but many people wouldn't like a big billboard in their neighborhood.