Anti-Israel protests in some cities are only getting worse. They started on college campuses; radical students (with help from non-students) spread violence and chaos at schools across the country. But in some of America’s largest cities, protests and marches rage.
It is no secret that the people protesting Israel’s war with Hamas are virulently antisemitic. This isn’t about politics or land; these people are spreading vile hatred against Jewish people.
Are we surprised these protests are happening in blue cities—where cops are powerless to do anything? In one major blue city, a large Jewish population is living in constant fear. Now, the governor of the state is coming up with a plan that advocates will claim violates Americans’ rights.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) considered on Thursday the idea of implementing a partial mask ban in New York City following a rise in antisemitic incidents by masked protesters in response to the conflict in the Middle East.
Gov. Hochul said that while discussions have largely focused on NYC subways, lawmakers are not ruling out prohibiting masks from being worn during protest activity, which has raised concerns about freedom of speech violations in the past. This comes after Jewish leaders called on Hochul to reinstate an anti-masking law that was repealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York Post reports. [Source: The Post Millennial]
A reporter was put in danger during a pro-Palestinian protest in New York. Now, the governor is considering reimplementing a ban on masks in the city. It’s pretty ironic if you ask me. Just a few years ago, Democrats in New York would have fined you for not wearing a face diaper (because of COVID).
Now, it seems that the state is unable to deter these antisemitic protests adequately; they might make it illegal for protesters to wear masks.
While we condemn this vile movement, propelled by progressives being “trained” by antisemitic groups, Hochul’s decision borders on unconstitutional. It would force all protesters in the state to expose their faces, which could discourage their free speech rights.
But it is clear that these protesters are wearing masks so they can commit crimes without fear. These marches and demonstrations often devolve into violence. They would love to confront Jewish people in the streets, doing God’s know-what to them. Covering their faces lets them do all this without fear of getting exposed.
Had New York just done more to improve their police department, this wouldn’t be a problem. Yet, they’ve depleted the NYPD of funds and resources for years. There are not enough cops to police these protests, emboldening antisemites.
Author: Bo Dogan
