TRYON, NC – A billboard that was put in place near Tryon – in response to North Carolina’s HB2 law – has been defaced.

The sign reads “Welcome to North Carolina. Due to our stance on LGBT rights, please set your clock back 100 years.” Now, the words “Be not deceived. God is not mocked” are written in black spray paint at the bottom of the billboard.

The sign has been up for more than a week at Skyuka Road and Highway 108 in Polk County.

The new law in North Carolina limits LGBT rights and the use of restrooms by transgender people in public places.

Planting Peace is responsible for the billboard.

“Our billboard is a reminder that laws such as HB2 move us backwards in the movement for equality and fundamental human rights for all,” said the organization in a written statement to 7 News. “We have to meet hate with love; intolerance with compassion. To deny any individual basic human rights based on your individual beliefs is outrageous and unethical.”

Our coverage partners at The Hendersonville Times-News reports the billboard was to be in place for one month.

A portion of a story by the Associated Press was used in this report.