Former CNN anchor Don Lemon has recently become embroiled in controversy after participating in a protest at Minneapolis’s Cities Church on January 18. During the event, protesters disrupted a church service, claiming the pastor had ties to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Lemon live-streamed the confrontation, capturing demonstrators chanting slogans such as “ICE OUT” and “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot!”
Details of the Cities Church Protest
The protest aimed to confront a pastor suspected of being associated with ICE. Demonstrators made their intentions clear, declaring that they interrupted the service due to the pastor’s alleged affiliation. As a result, many parishioners left the church mid-service. Lemon stated, “This is what the First Amendment is about, the freedom to protest.” He defended the actions of the protesters, emphasizing their right to express dissent.
Potential Legal Consequences Under the FACE Act
While Lemon praised the protest, legal repercussions may follow. Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General, indicated that a probe is underway. He suggested that protest actions might infringe upon the FACE Act, which prohibits interference with religious activities and reproductive health services. The act allows for civil penalties against those who violate it.
Understanding the FACE Act
The FACE Act, as outlined by the Department of Justice, aims to protect both reproductive health services and religious freedom. Key points include:
- Prohibits the use or threat of force that intimidates individuals accessing reproductive health services.
- Prevents interruptions at places of worship.
- Allows the Attorney General to seek damages against violators.
About Don Lemon
Don Lemon is a veteran journalist known for his time at CNN, where he hosted various programs, including CNN Tonight. He garnered multiple awards for his reporting, including three regional Emmy Awards. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Lemon graduated from Louisiana State University and later earned a degree in broadcast journalism from Brooklyn College.
Career Milestones
- Joined CNN in 2006, gaining prominence in the network.
- Awards include an Edward R. Murrow award for coverage of the D.C. sniper case.
- Parted ways with CNN in April 2023 after 17 years.
Before his departure, Lemon faced various controversies, including remarks deemed misogynistic. Despite these incidents, he expressed surprise at his termination and stated he was not informed directly by management. His recent involvement in the Minneapolis protest underscores his continued public engagement and advocacy.
