On January 6, the California Supreme Court heard arguments in Society for Krishna Consciousness v City of Los Angeles, S164272. The issue was whether the California Constitution contains more protection for free speech in publicly-owned spaces where large numbers of people congregate, specifically airports. Witnesses say the argument went very badly for the Hare Krishna side. On the other hand, the California Supreme Court has said in the past that the California Constitution grants more protection in this area of the law than the U.S. Constitution does. UPDATE: see this story.
The attorney for the Society for Krishna Consciousness apparently even told the court that his clients have a constitutional right to be inside the “sterile” part of the airport, the part beyond the security checkpoints.
Krishna being the God who from time to time incarnates to overthrow vainglorious tyrants.
Every person has a right to visit a community owned public space and feel free from intimadation. Public spaces by definition are owned by the community, therefore, the community needs to insure that all are represented in a fair and equal manor. To allow all to express their point of view at any one time would create a chaotic environment, none should be allowed. This doesn’t tamper with free speech. It assures that the free space can be used by all equally.
“Every person has a right to visit a community owned public space and feel free from intimadation.”
This is a ridiculouse statement. Only an intellectual coward is intimidated by a person who is engaging in a peaceful free speech activity.
Banning free speech in public forums such as airports is anti-liberty.