Because of the threatening behavior repeatedly posed by Trump-supporting counter-protesters during the peaceful assemblies of citizens lobbying our congressional representative, we, the undersigned demand that the New York Penal Law, § 240.20, Disorderly Conduct be enforced for the protection of protesters while exercising our First Amendment Right of free speech.
NY Penal Law § 240.20 states:
A person is guilty of disorderly conduct when, with intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof:
1. He engages in fighting or in violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior; or
2. He makes unreasonable noise; or
3. In a public place, he uses abusive or obscene language or makes an obscene gesture; or
4. Without lawful authority, he disturbs any lawful assembly or meeting of persons; or
5. He obstructs vehicular or pedestrian traffic; or
6. He congregates with other persons in a public place and refuses to comply with a lawful order of the police to disperse; or
7. He creates a hazardous or physically offensive condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose.
Why is this important?
Failure to enforce this law is seen as encouraging the breaking of the law, empowering those who wish to silence protest, thus making the city and police department culpable in the event of injury or death resulting from aggressive action against those who peacefully assemble.
Tell our city officials to enforce the law. Demand they make our gatherings safe for all citizens to attend. A city where parents can safely bring their children to rallies to witness the exercising of their First Amendment Rights, without fear of exposing them to violence or foul language .
How it will be delivered
Petition will be hand-delivered to City officials at the Glens Falls Common Council meeting on February 11th at 7:30 PM, City Hall. We encourage those in the vicinity to attend. Press will cover this event.
