Texas dad strips down to show support for mask mandates

In Dripping Springs, Texas, a father stripped down during a school board meeting Monday to make a point around mask mandates. According to KXAN, James Akers is the parent and fifteen-year resident of Dripping Springs, who got to speak to the school board just thirty minutes into the meeting.

“I do not like government or any other entity — just ask my wife — telling me what to do,” Akers said. “But, sometimes I’ve got to push the envelope a little bit, and I’ve just decided that I’m going to not just talk about it, but I’m going to walk the walk.”

Akers then began stripping down while outlining various societal expectations, such as wearing a tie, stopping at red lights and not parking in handicap spots. These are societal expectations people are expected to follow and he believes masks fall into that category.

Akers ended his comments with nothing but his underwear on and applause from the attendees. “It’s simple protocol, people,” he said. “We follow certain rules. We follow certain rules for a very good reason.”

Officers did not remove Akers, but Board President Barbara Stroud asked him to put his clothes back on. “Mr. Akers, I understand — I believe you’re a swimmer — but if you would mind putting your pants back on for a comment, that would be appreciated,” she said.

A spokesperson for Dripping Springs ISD declined to comment on Akers’ public remarks.