Legal Challenge to Protect Free Speech: CAIR-SFBA Sues Max Steiner for Assault in Monterey County Incident
Alenteshar Newspaper
In an assertive stand for civil liberties, the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ San Francisco Bay Area office (CAIR-SFBA), along with law firms Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger and Palo Alto Legal Group, initiated a legal battle against Max Steiner for his actions against three Monterey County residents. This lawsuit, filed in response to an incident on October 12, 2023, underscores the ongoing tension surrounding the exercise of free speech and the physical safety of individuals in public spaces.
The confrontation took place in Sand City, where three young women, including a minor, were creating a “Free Gaza” sign on a sand embankment. This area, commonly used for public messaging, became the site of contention when Steiner allegedly engaged in a violent disruption of their activity. The plaintiffs accuse Steiner of verbal assault, including accusations of terrorism, destruction of their sign, and physical assault, particularly towards the minor, involving the grabbing of the individual and the destruction of a cellphone.
This incident, drawing attention to Israel’s war on Palestine, has now transitioned into a legal arena, with the lawsuit addressing claims of negligence, violations of the Bane Act and Ralph Act (California civil rights laws), assault, and battery. These charges are significant, highlighting the legal protections against acts that infringe on the right to free speech and safe expression.
Jeffrey Wang, Senior Civil Rights Attorney at CAIR-SFBA, emphasized the broader implications of the case, stating that it represents a defense of the fundamental democratic right to free speech, beyond just seeking justice for the victims. The lawsuit aims to reaffirm the principle that individuals should be able to express their opinions without the threat of violence and intimidation.
The actions of CAIR-SFBA and its partnering law firms reflect a commitment to safeguarding civil rights and promoting an environment where dialogue and expression are protected. This case is a poignant reminder of the necessity to defend these rights vigorously, ensuring that individuals, irrespective of their background, can participate in public discourse without fear.
The legal pursuit by CAIR-SFBA, a branch of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization, signifies a broader effort to protect and uphold the civil liberties of the American Muslim community and beyond, advocating for a just and inclusive society where the freedom of expression is maintained and respected.
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