Neighbor News
Democratic State Assembly Candidates Support Local Pride Events
LD 10 Candidates Eileen Della Volle & Erin Wheeler Condemn Hate Speech Targeting Ocean County Library, Blue Claws, Pride Month Celebrations
BRICK, NJ (June 6, 2019)—Eileen Della Volle and Erin Wheeler, the Democratic candidates for the New Jersey State Assembly’s 10th legislative district, announce their support for Pride events planned by the Ocean County Library and the Lakewood Blue Claws baseball team—and are denouncing efforts by an out of town clergy member to organize protests against the celebrations.
Rabbi Yesuda Levin has posted several videos to social media calling on local residents to protest the events and condemning the LGBTQI community. Flyers being circulated throughout the community refer to homosexuality as an “abomination” and the events as “anti-family brainwashing.”
“There is no room in our community for this kind of hateful rhetoric and ignorance, and we stand by the Blue Claws and the Ocean County Library in their efforts to promote tolerance and acceptance and do their part to educate and enlighten the public,” Eileen Della Volle said. “Given the dark history of LGBTQI people being the victims of violence, the language in these videos and flyers is unacceptable and endangers the safety of our citizens. This is why it is important to elect leaders who will represent the rights of all people,” Della Volle said.
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“As a high school teacher who works with young people every day, I commend the Blue Claws and the Ocean County Library system for raising awareness about these important issues and working to ensure the rights of every human being to live their lives with authenticity and truth,” Erin Wheeler said. “Rabbi Levin’s language is an offense and insult to the people of Ocean County. We all must speak out against this hate in our community, and make sure our elected leaders support the rights and protection of all members of our society,” Wheeler said.
The month of June is recognized as LGBTQI Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall riots of June, 1969, promote acceptance and tolerance, and recognize the contributions of the LGBTQI community to society. The Lakewood Blue Claws will be hosting “Pride Night” on Saturday, June 8th. The Ocean County Library has planned a series of Pride-themed exhibits, speakers and film screenings at its branches throughout the month of June.
