New Yorkers Support Mask Ban At Protests As Minorities Fear Discrimination

By Idy Perl

Recent protests in NYC have caused concerns as many cowardly protestors use masks to cover their identity while being violent and aggressive during “peaceful protests.”

A recent poll done in NYC had some surprising, but not really surprising, results. The #UnMaskHateNY coalition polled NYC residents and found that a staggering 75% of voters would support a mask ban at protests. Voters noted that although its important to protect free speech and the right to protest, public safety is also important and there must be accountability for those who turn those protests violent.

The poll also asked members of various background and groups if they are afraid that they might be the victim of targeted harassment or a hate crime. Although 50% of voters said they are, the number increased dramatically among minority groups; 67% of black voters, 68% of Asian voters, and

76% of Jewish voters are concerned about being singled out for discrimination

And those fears aren’t unfounded; numerous reports have shown that antisemitism against Jewish New Yorkers has dramatically increased since October 7th, 2023.

photo: Shutterstock