Last week, in light of the ongoing masked protests in New York City, Governor Hochu stated that she is considering reinstating a previous ban on wearing masks in public places. Following her remarks, other officials have also indicated their support for this decision.
In recent anti-Semitic protests in New York City, many individuals covering their faces with scarves or masks were seen chanting hateful slogans such as “Jews get out,” “Long live October 7th,” or “It would be better if Hitler were here,” without facing any consequences.
As a result, Jewish leaders have recently urged lawmakers to reinstate the mask ban, arguing that the law allows malicious anti-Semitic protesters to evade accountability while spreading hatred.
The governor also expressed concerns that wearing masks could conceal criminal activities. “We cannot tolerate individuals using masks to carry out their crimes and threatening behavior,” the governor said on June 13th.
New York State Attorney General Jane Le-Shiha appears to have shifted her stance and now supports this effort. According to a statement provided to the New York Post by her office, Le-Shiha is in discussions with the governor and legislators regarding reinstating this ban in New York State.
When the coronavirus began infecting New Yorkers, Le-Shiha had advocated for lifting the mask mandate, citing it as necessary for the state’s health. However, officials now view it as a matter of public safety rather than public health.
The state Attorney General’s office stated in its release, “No one should hide behind a mask to spread hate.”
The mask ban stipulates that individuals cannot wear masks in public places unless for medical or religious reasons, with violators facing up to 15 days of imprisonment.
Other officials supporting the reinstatement of the ban include New York City Mayor Adams and others.
The mayor stated on June 13th to WABC Radio, “Cowards hide their faces. There is no room for hatred against any group in this city,” adding, “I agree with those calling for the removal of masks, not only because of the protesters using vile language but also because of criminal behavior.”
“Now is the time to return to the pre-COVID state in protests, where you shouldn’t wear a mask,” the mayor said.
Nassau County Assemblyman Charles Lavine told CBS News, “The ban was lifted during the pandemic, and since then we have seen a surge in hate incidents in America and around the world,” adding, “We need to do something; it is our duty to protect all our citizens, regardless of their ethnicity and religion.”
Councilwoman Vickie Paladino said, “Ban? Of course, I agree, do it immediately, why waste time? They are doing whatever they want, and we are sitting here playing games. There is nothing to discuss, just make a decision. That’s how things should be done.”
Former New York Governor David Paterson also expressed his support for the ban on masks in public places on Sunday.
“Many criminals hide their faces, so victims cannot identify them to the police,” Paterson said on WABC’s The Cats Roundtable show, adding, “Sometimes you have to manage what is happening around you rather than always stating some vague principles that are not useful.”
Recently, the New York Civil Liberties Union came out against reinstating the mask ban, arguing that it violates the principle of free speech.
“Unless you have better suggestions to reduce crime levels,” the former governor said, “then you should really step back and let those responsible for handling this matter find their own solutions. If the legislature needs to pass legislation, let the law replace your interests.”