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Demonstrators gathered outside the Connecticut state capitol on Wednesday, February 9, ahead of Gov Ned Lamont’s State of the State address, to protest mask mandates in schools, despite Lamont’s announcement that he was lifting the state’s mandate.

“It’s about time to end the statewide school mask mandate and enable each local board of education to decide what is best for their schools,” Lamont wrote in a tweet on Wednesday. “From a public health perspective, people have earned this freedom and it can be done safely.” He said the mandate would end on February 28.

Some parents who oppose mask mandates were unhappy with the announcement as it would still allow school districts and governments to impose local masking rules, local media reported.

Footage filmed by Dana Lorrane shows parents holding signs reading “My kids are not for sale” and “My child my choice.” Lorrane told Storyful, “Lamont has still asked for extension of emergency orders. We oppose any extension of emergency orders or power of any sort. Legislators can decide to end this now when they vote tomorrow and Monday.”

An announcement from event organizers Unmask Our Kids CT said, “What was said … by our Governor was NOT good enough. We are still holding the rally at the State Capitol in Hartford on Wednesday at 10am. Do not be pacified by Ned Lamont! ‘Local control’ means having to fight in every town to see all our children with mask choice… someday.” Credit: Dana Lorrane via Storyful