General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: New Bill Would Make Wearing Hoodies A Crime [View all]onenote
(42,602 posts)Boy is this a trumped up bit of hyperbole.
First, as others have pointed out, legislation such as this exists in many jurisdictions and has for decades. Its origins have to do with efforts to legislate against the KKK.
Second, Oklahoma law already makes it illegal "to wear a mask, hood, or covering that conceals the identity of the wearer during the commission of a crime or for purpose of coerciaon, intimidation, or harassment."
Third, the language being added would make it a misdemenor for a person to "intentionally conceal his or her identity by means of a robe, mask, or other disguise."
So, let's review. Hoods that conceal the identity of the wearer (i.e., hoods such as those worn by the KKK) are and have been unlawful if worn during the commission of a crime or for purpose of intimidation, harassment, or coercion. Hoods in this context has a specific meaning and it does not encompass a hoodie or other article of clothing that doesn't conceal the wearer's identity.
The additional language doesn't even refer to hoods. It refers to intentionally concealing one's identity by a robe, mask or other disguise." Again, not a hoodie, which doesn't conceal one's identity the way a mask or robe or disguise does.