[Maximum Leader]

Are you sure the law is that old? I thought the law was passed fairly recently in New York.

I think the first anti-hood law was in Georgia and it was specifically passed to unmask the Klan (though I doubt Geogia enforces it against other groups either).

The judge (and the ACLU) is right, any restriction on free speech has to be content neutral. I don't know any sane person who graduated from the 8th grade who endorses the Klan but the government isn't in the business of deciding what is acceptable speech.

If they don't enforce it against everyone who breaks this law, then it's unconstitutional to enforce it against the Klan solely because of their odious message.

[Hugin]

I also heard that law was passed back in the mid 1800s to curtail the Irish street gangs, along with banning concealed weapons. I might have heard wrong though. But I bet here someone knows for sure.

[I_be_tc]

You are right. As much as the KKK is hated, it is their freedom to wear it. Wasn't there a woman who wore a burka mask for her driver's license picture in Florida? Personally, I think only fraidy cats hide behind masks. (Unless you are one of clinton's ninja guys.)

TC

[NativeNewYorker]

I seem to recall the law going back to the 19th century. It certainly pre-dates WW II. If I get a chance, I'll look into it later. On child care patrol now. :)