**Protecting Academic Freedom While Upholding the Law: Ohio’s Warning to Anti-Israel Protesters**
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has drawn attention with a letter warning university presidents about a historic state law that could implicate masked anti-Israel protesters on college campuses with felony charges.
Preserving First Amendment Rights
Yost emphasizes that the First Amendment protects freedom of speech, including hateful expressions. However, he stresses that this right cannot be wielded as a weapon against fellow students.
“The First Amendment was always designed to be a shield against the government. It’s not a sword against your fellow students and they have rights too. Your First Amendment rights are limited by their right to be able to go to school, use the library, get the value of their education and the tuition that they paid for.”
Addressing Anonymity and Reprisals
Yost explains that the law, enacted in the 20th century, was aimed at holding the Ku Klux Klan accountable for its masked activities. By extending the law to protesters wearing masks, Yost seeks to address the anonymity that allows them to engage in potentially harmful actions.
He refutes claims that protesters fear reprisals, suggesting that university administrations are generally supportive of anti-Israel sentiments.
“Those guilty may also pay up to ,000 in fines and spend up to five years on community control.”
Criticism and Yost’s Response
Yost’s letter has sparked criticism, with Ohio Democratic State Sen. Bill DeMora denouncing it as “disgusting” and a “blatant misread of the law.”
Yost, however, dismisses the criticism and argues that his letter merely reminds potential lawbreakers about the consequences of their actions.
“All the letter does is say, hey, don’t become an accidental felon. I don’t understand how advising somebody about how to be a law abiding citizen, is intimidating or disgusting.”
Community Protection and Historical Precedence
Yost emphasizes the importance of protecting all citizens, including those who are not protesting. He notes the alarming trend of lawlessness and failure to enforce laws designed to protect society.
He adds that anti-Israel protesters wearing masks should remember that their historical heroes did not hide their identities.
“Martin Luther King Jr and John Lewis weren’t in masks when they walked in Selma. Own your expression. Own the dictates of your conscience and don’t break the law.”
Yost’s warning serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between freedom of speech and public safety. By enforcing laws against illegal activities, Ohio aims to uphold the rights of all parties involved, students, protesters, and the wider community.
