Don Lemon Confronts FACE Act at Cities Church, Minneapolis: Key Details

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon is at the center of controversy following a protest at Cities Church in Minneapolis on January 18. Lemon joined demonstrators who interrupted a service, claiming that the pastor was associated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Protest Details at Cities Church

The protest escalated as participants rushed into the church, chanting slogans such as “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot!” and “ICE OUT.” During the live stream, Lemon reported that many attendees left the service due to the disruption. He stated that the protest was initiated after the group discovered the pastor’s alleged ties to ICE.

Reactions and Legal Implications

Lemon advocated for the demonstrators, emphasizing their First Amendment rights. He remarked, “This is what the First Amendment is about, the freedom to protest,” acknowledging the discomfort it may cause others.

However, legal repercussions may loom for the protesters. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon announced a federal investigation into potential violations of the FACE Act, which prohibits obstructing worship services. The federal law is designed to protect both reproductive health services and religious freedom.

Understanding the FACE Act

The FACE Act enforces strict penalties against actions that injure, intimidate, or interfere with individuals seeking to exercise their rights. This includes:

• Prohibiting the use or threat of force at places of worship.
• Preventing physical obstruction of religious services.
• Addressing intentional property damage at religious facilities.

About Don Lemon

Don Lemon, a prominent journalist, joined CNN in 2006 and hosted various programs until his departure in April 2023. He gained recognition for his coverage of significant events, including the capture of a notorious sniper, and has won multiple awards for his journalism.

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Lemon earned a degree in broadcast journalism from Brooklyn College. He has previously worked for multiple news outlets, including NBC News, before his long tenure at CNN ended in controversy following accusations of misogyny on-air.

Conclusion

This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and civil rights. As investigations unfold under the FACE Act, the impact on both the protesters and the church community remains to be seen.