A sign at Cadman Plaza Park, Brooklyn reminding visitors to social distance./Image Credit: May Vutrapongvatana
The First Amendment allows the State to pass public health regulations that impact the manner of protests if they are written and enforced neutrally. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd was killed by a police officer while in the custody of the Minneapolis Police Department. Since Floyd’s death, demonstrations and rallies have been held in different parts of the City to protest systemic racism and law enforcement misconduct. Taking place on City’s streets, sidewalks, and in parks, the protests have drawn crowds of thousands of people which has raised concerns over the spread of COVID-19.
