I have written to my legislator this evening to urge her to vote not to penalize individuals or companies who choose to protest through boycotts or other lawful means, against whomsoever they wish to protest.
The freedom to protest is a basic democratic right, guaranteed by the First Amendment, and I believe that any law that attempts to squelch that basic right will ultimately be found unconstitutional.
Nassau County cannot afford the legal fees on the Supreme Court battle that would inevitably ensue.
Also, it is not the place of local government to attempt to dictate national policy by passing legislation that would penalize businesses who are engaged in a lawful boycott against a foreign government. And how can the legislature justify penalizing someone who is acting within the law, in accordance with their conscience?
If the Nassau County Legislature votes not to do business with those engaged in anti-Israeli boycotts, it will have a chilling effect on First Amendment rights.
Who will be next?
Will Nassau County then refuse to do business with those of us who continue to boycott Exxon and BP Oil for the environmental atrocities they inflicted upon our natural resources?
Will Nassau County then refuse to do business with those of us who are boycotting North Carolina because of its recent anti-GLBTQ legislation?
Will Nassau County start sending the police out to arrest lawful protesters simply for protesting?
I am very much in favor of protecting First Amendment rights, and against any legislation that would penalize people for participating in perfectly legal boycotts.
Cassandra Lems
New Hyde Park
