CAIR-NY Raises Public Health, Free Speech Concerns about Nassau County Proposed Mask Ban
Photo Credit: Nassau County
(NEW YORK, NY, 8/1/2024) - The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today raised public health and free speech concerns about Nassau County’s proposed mask ban.
This bill, if passed, would empower law enforcement to demand the removal of a mask if an officer has "reasonable suspicion" of intent to engage in criminal activity. Refusal to remove the mask upon request could result in a fine of up to $1,000 or up to one year in jail. Although the proposed ban exempts face masks used for health or religious reasons, the ambiguity in enforcement and potential for misuse poses substantial risks for student protesters and the Muslim community at large. Earlier this year, Governor Kathy Hochul was considering a ban on face masks in the New York City subway system but sparked debate among civil rights groups. Currently, there is no timeline for the New York City ban.
SEE: Long Island Bill Could Mean Jail Time, $1,000 Fines for face masks that hide identity
SEE: Gov. Hochul considering a face mask ban on New York City Subways
In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director, Afaf Nasher, Esq. said:
“CAIR-NY highlights the public health risks associated with such a ban, particularly in the context of ongoing health concerns where masks are crucial for protection. Moreover, the bill’s vague language around ‘reasonable suspicion’ raises the likelihood of profiling and discrimination, especially in the context of violence and over-policing against pro-Palestinian advocates.
“This also chills free speech activity on issues deemed controversial, especially due to malicious doxing. Doxing has posed a far greater threat to people’s safety than the actions of the masses of overwhelmingly peaceful protesters.
“This proposed legislation can lead to increased discrimination and over-policing, disproportionately affecting Muslims in New York and jeopardizing public health and civil liberties as we know it.”
Earlier this year, CAIR-NY has been an advocate against over-policing at protests.
SEE: CAIR-NY Condemns NYPD SRG, For Violence Used Against Bay Ridge Protesters
SEE: CAIR-NY Calls on NYC City Council to Disband the NYPD SRG, Invest in Community Programs Instead
CAIR-NY's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT:
Afaf Nasher, Esq., CAIR-NY Executive Director, 917-669-4006, anasher@cair.com;
Saira Amar, MPA, CAIR-NY Communications Coordinator, samar@cair.com