Opponents of statewide mask mandate rally at Minnesota Capitol

A week after Minnesota’s face mask mandate took effect, opponents gathered on the grounds of the State Capitol on Aug. 1 to criticize Gov. Tim Walz’s executive order.

A few hundred people turned out for the rally, with some carrying signs, others American flags, and a few with firearms visible. In announcing the rally, organizers said they’re not opposed to people wearing masks — just any statewide rule or law requiring it.

One sign at the rally called the coronavirus pandemic a “fake crisis.” Another called the wearing of masks “dehumanizing.”

Ben Carrick, who said he’s from southern Minnesota, was among the crowd on the Capitol grounds.

Read more: https://www.southernminn.com/faribault_daily_news/news/state/article_d319d2e7-8efa-5b95-9759-4d294c2a95a0.html