It's official. The gov hates hate. He even issued a press release.

Hatred always comes from fear and, ignorance. The desire to cling to such hateful feelings, and to spread them in pamphlets that are meant to cause humiliation and anger, comes from a particular kind of weakness.

I want to praise the people of Montclair and Glen Ridge for the way they handled this distressing situation. Rather than remain silent, they reported these leaflets to police. And they’re standing together – those who belong to the majority and those who are minorities – to show that when you target one member of the neighborhood, you’re targeting everyone. And this is something they won’t stand for.

That shows real character – the kind of character that makes a town strong and makes New Jersey great.

These incidents that show hatred are deeply insulting, not just to the people targeted but to everyone who values human diversity and human dignity. They’re insulting to everyone who values New Jersey’s and America’s commitment to stand as a safe haven from ethnic or religious persecution.

To the residents of Montclair and Glen Ridge: Stay vigilant. Do not allow these hateful acts and this hateful attitude to fester in your towns. Do not allow them to detract from New Jersey’s reputation as a State of tolerance, respect and compassion between all people.”

May 28, 2004 in Civic Virtue | Permalink