NEW YORK (AP) — The Times Square costumed characters took off their masks to protest what they call a “hostile move” by New York police telling tourists they don’t have to tip for photos.
The giant Elmos, Mickey Mouses and Statues of Liberty proclaimed their right to make money Tuesday.
The mostly Spanish-speaking immigrants have formed a new group called NYC Artists United for a Smile.
They say it’s their constitutional right to earn a living entertaining people. The $50 to $70 dollars a day they make amounts to less than minimum wage for shifts of up to 12 hours.
Authorities say some of the characters have attacked tourists or harassed them for not paying.
Last week, the NYPD started distributing leaflets and posting signs telling visitors that tips for are optional.
