Burn Mask Protest Planned In Opposition To Mandate

WANTAGH, NY — Although a judge ordered Gov. Kathy Hochul's mask mandate reinstated until the appeal process is heard, some people are expected to make their voices and actions heard.

A rally was posted to social media sites, encouraging people to "burn your mask and be free."

The protest is scheduled for Jan. 31 at Wantagh Park.

It is listed as a one-hour event starting at 5:30 p.m. for those in attendance to "fan the flames of freedom."

The protest organizers also added a social media tag: #IStandWithBruce, as a reference to County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who gave schools the option to require masks.

In Seaford, the schools' superintendent posted an alert that masks are back in effect through Friday when the appellate court will hear further arguments on the matter.

Seaford, and other districts, await guidance on the next step.