Actually, it's not only a right, but a duty, for associations to enforce their covenants, and they can be sued for their failure to do so.  Many people move into a covenant-controlled community precisely because they want protection against outrageous behavior of others.  What owners can legally do with their property is established by the covenants of each community, which constitute a contract that is binding on all owners and runs with the land.  Each owner agreed to be bound by those covenants, and the rules that board may adopt from time to time.  The owners elect the board that governs the community, so it is a representative form of government, just like our nation.  What's un-American about that?  And what's in-American about people entering into voluntary contracts?