“The greatest fear in the world is the opinion of others, and the moment you are unafraid of the crowd, you are no longer a sheep, you become a lion. A great roar arises in your heart, the roar of freedom.” ~ Osho
Our pick for Pushback of the Week is Ian Smith, co-owner of Atilis Gym in New Jersey, who has achieved a significant legal victory. A New Jersey court has dismissed all 80 charges brought against him—charges that were the result of Smith’s decision to reopen his gym in May 2020, despite Governor Phil Murphy’s COVID-19 lockdown orders. Smith argued that the lockdown mandates were unconstitutional and detrimental to small businesses like Atilis Gym.
This defiance culminated in a confrontation in July 2020, when police officers arrested Smith for repeatedly violating the state’s shutdown directives. The situation escalated further when law enforcement officers, including K-9 units, stormed the gym and apprehended the owners for their refusal to comply with the governor’s orders.
Solari commends Smith’s brave position and extends congratulations for his recent victory.
Related:
N.J. gym owner who defied COVID lockdown cleared of 80+ charges, attorney says
New Jersey Gym Owner Offers Free Memberships To Those Who Refuse Vaccines
Victory! All Charges Dismissed Against N.J. Gym Owner Who Wouldn’t Close During COVID Lockdown
