I need to bring attention to something re: Toronto Police. 2 out of 3 of the last recent arrest warrants against pro-Palestine activists include charges against masks/facial coverings, During a GLOBAL PANDEMIC. TPS is laying charges for wearing MASKS.
As far as we are aware, and for sure in one instance, the arrestees were wearing KN95s. They're also prominent figures in organizing, clearly not trying to hide their identities. They're being criminalized for wearing covid masks to keep themselves and others safe.
This is an absolutely absurd charge in any instance, AND ESPECIALLY during a global fucking pandemic. In doing this, police (therefore the State) are actively discouraging public health and safety guidelines. This cannot be tolerated.
Masking is an essential way to help prevent the spread of a virus, which, as we are learning more & more, is debilitating to our entire bodies. Long Covid is on the rise from recent strains, & people are becoming incredibly ill and dying from LC. People NEED to be wearing masks.
Since Oct 7th, Toronto Police have only been in the news for massive police overreach and oppressive practices, and this should absolutely be among them. It's unacceptable for them to be laying charges against pro-Palestine organizers for wearing masks during a pandemic.