“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

Ian Smith Fitness

Atilis Gym