Anti-mask mandate protest takes place outside Joplin City Hall

An anti-mask mandate rally took place outside Joplin’s City Hall Friday evening.

Over 100 people showed up at one point to voice their displeasure with the City of Joplin’s ordinance requiring face masks be worn in public places around town. City leaders say it was passed in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Many chanted “No mask, no fear” and “freedom over fear” and waved American flags. Also seen were signs that said “Which freedom is next?”, “Your mandate won’t muzzle me” and “I want America back”.

At one point the crowd chanted “Toby Teeter is not my leader” in reference to the Chamber of Commerce President.

Signs also read “Don’t be a mask hole” and one sign stated that we are “One step closer to Nazi Germany”

The face mask mandate is in effect through August 17 in the city of Joplin.