And yet, the non physical mask worked just as well to allow Tarlok to lie cheat and steal within the structure of the government. It, in many ways, is more effective than a physical mask. The mask is visually noticeable, Tarlok's and others lies are not.
You mentioned that because Amon wears a mask he is somehow less trustworthy. Yet, that hardly seems to be the case since Amon's ACTIONS have thus far demonstrated an honest dedication to his goals.
The mask does not inherently, as you asserted, make him a shady character and that seems a bit superficial to judge it as such with evidence in his actions to the contrary.
The masks of the Equalists are necessary. They are going against a superior foe and need surprise and anonymity to continue their activism. Rather like the Irish or Welsh fighting against medieval British

I freely acknowledge it is a loose analogy, however the aforementioned agitators did all take action to improve their lot in life and did delineate an us/them dicthomy according to those who had power (being the one utilizing it for oppressive ends) and those who sought to undo that social issue. The Equalists remind me (again, loosely) of the old German Social Democrats of late 1800s, albeit with a whole lot more backflipping and electrical gloves.

Standing up for themselves does not make them villains, simply because they defy authority, one of the classifications you used in your earlier post to qualify the Equalists as villains.

With respect, Amon and the Equalists often speak to the public to make their argument. These include pamphlets being printed, rallies, radio broadcasts, and public speakers such as the fellow with the microphone in the very first episode.

I must VEHEMENTLY oppose the statement "they are oppressing themselves." I cannot see how that is even remotely true, since the very presence of their movement is a reaction to the society they live in. That line of thought seems like blaming the victim. The Equalists seem to be empowering normal people, such providing training and arms to those that seek to not be at the mercy of benders.

It does not make them evil to identify a clear source for the woes plaguing society. At worst, it makes them reactionary, focused at best.
What is a clear source of the inequality in Republic city society? The advantage in power enjoyed and exploited by benders against non benders. This is the lever utilized to promote the inequality of their system. With advancing technology, common people are able to see a means to reduce or eliminate that lever and level the playing field.
Limited vision does not eliminate the validity of their critique, it merely radicalizes their measures and narrows their focus. Bending/non-bending inequality does exist within their society and needs to be corrected.

With respect, only if you go by Frank Miller's alcoholic thrill seeking Batman. I find it asinine that Batman goes out, risks life and limb, and demonstrates such massive willpower just to get some kicks. There are many examples of Batman (written by other writers) being motivated by a desire for justice spurred by the traumatic event in his past.
Rather like Amon... at least according to his given backstory. I have all faith the authors will make Amon out to be a lying fiend in a "twist" at the end. Banking on Zhao come back from the spirit world! Called it!
Batman does in fact help Gotham by being "billionaire philanthropist" Bruce Wayne.
"I made a promise on the grave of my parents that I would rid this city of the evil that took their lives. By day, I am Bruce Wayne, billionaire philanthropist. At night, criminals, a cowardly and superstitious lot, call me... Batman."- Hush comics.