“We don’t care if people want to wear masks, we just don’t want to be forced to”

A “Pro American, Pro Police, Pro Freedom, Anti Mask, Pro Trump” gathering took place near the Moscow Walgreens parking lot Monday evening.

Jeff Stimmel of Lewiston, Idaho, Jase Groesbeck of Kamiah, Idaho, and Laura Anderson of Palouse, Washington, gave out free hamburgers, hot dogs and bottled water to those who stopped by to show support. Some attendees brought homemade signs, which they waved at passing cars.  

Around thirty people came through the area to pick up the free food. While Stimmel grilled, Anderson and Groesbeck set the food on a table so people could help themselves.  

The group organized a similar event in Lewiston last Monday, according to a Facebook post by Stimmel. They chose to do another gathering in Moscow because of the city’s mask mandate, Groesbeck said.  

The public health emergency order, more commonly known as the “mask mandate,” states face coverings must be worn in public when a physical distance of six feet can’t be maintained from non-household members. 

While some drivers passing by honked their horns in appreciation, Anderson said eggs and drinks were thrown their way at the event in Lewiston.

“We don’t care if people want to wear masks, we just don’t want to be forced to,” Anderson said. “I think it’s up to each individual to do what’s best for them based on what they’ve researched, I just don’t think it should be forced on everybody.”  

Susan Zenier, a Moscow resident, showed up to protest the event in her homemade face mask.  

“Too many people do not recognize asymptomatic behavior. You can be dangerous even if you don’t intend to be,” Zenier said. “I don’t know how many people here know someone who’s had (COVID-19).” 

According to Groesbeck, the group spoke with Moscow Chief of Police James Fry and another officer ahead of the event.  

“They’re completely OK with everything as long as we have this sidewalk open and people stay six feet apart,” Groesbeck said. “There’s nothing illegal going on here.” 

Fry attended the gathering and walked around verbally reminding people of the order. No other police officers attended and Fry wore a Moscow Police Department mask.

“I think there’s concerns, from both sides, so we’re here to monitor and make sure people are doing what they’re supposed to be doing,” Fry said. “If we need to, we’ll issue some warning cards. We could issue some misdemeanor citations, but it’s going to be up to individuals and how much they comply with the order.” 

Pat Windham, a Moscow resident, said she came to the event to protest the mask mandate.  

“There’s too much contrary evidence. I just think it’s a way to control us,” Windham said. “We’re Americans, we can make up our own mind if we’re safe or not.” 

Angela Palermo can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @apalermooo