http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/499761875

Burning crosses, hangman's nooses, and the like state statutes that proscribe the use of symbols of fear and violence with the intent to threaten

Almost half of the states outlaw cross burning with the intent to threaten as such. A few of these statues cover the display of hangman's noses and other symbols of intimidation as well. Moreover, the same misconduct also frequently falls under more general state prohibitions on coercion, terroristic threats, harassment, or hate crimes. Some of these laws feature a hate crime element without which conviction is not possible; others do not. In either case, there are obvious First Amendment implications.

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