By Joyce Waterman

As someone who has spent years serving the people of Jersey City, I’ve learned that being a representative of diverse and often underrepresented communities means seeing things from a perspective that many others miss. It means recognizing inequities and calling them out, even when it’s uncomfortable. Over the past few days, we’ve seen two tragic incidents unfold in our city—two crimes that tell a larger story about how we respond to violence and whose voices are prioritized.

Last weekend, a man was viciously beaten in an unprovoked attack outside the Exchange Place PATH station. The attack left him hospitalized with serious injuries, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. No one should feel unsafe walking through our city, whether they’re commuting to work or simply going about their day. This incident has understandably sparked outrage and immediate calls for action. In response, some leaders have practically tripped over themselves demanding more police patrols at PATH stations in response to this crime. Their urgency was clear, their voices loud.

But just last night, another tragedy struck in Jersey City—a shooting near Lembeck Avenue and Old Bergen Road claimed the life of Rahmiere Morris. According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, the shooting occurred shortly before 8:30 p.m., and as of now, the assailant has not been found. This is a devastating loss for Rahmiere’s family, friends, and community. Yet where is the same urgency? Where are the loud voices demanding justice for Rahmiere?

Where are the calls for increased safety measures in Greenville and other neighborhoods that have long been plagued by violence?

The silence is deafening, and it’s the kind of thing that makes you stop and think. Why do some crimes elicit immediate action while others seem to be swept under the rug? Why do some neighborhoods get attention while others are left behind? These are questions we need to ask ourselves as a city because they speak to a much deeper issue: inequality.

This is a story of crime but it isn’t just about crime; it’s about whose lives are valued and whose voices are heard. It’s about ensuring that every resident of Jersey City—regardless of where they live—feels safe, respected, and supported. Right now, that’s not the reality for everyone in our city. And as someone who has dedicated my career to fighting for equity and inclusion, I can’t stand by and let this continue.

I point this out not to divide us but to remind us of what’s at stake. We have an opportunity to come together as one Jersey City—a city where every neighborhood matters, where every resident matters. But that requires leadership that sees the whole picture, not just what’s convenient or politically expedient.

As your next mayor, I will work tirelessly to ensure that every corner of Jersey City gets the attention it deserves. That means addressing safety concerns at PATH stations **and** tackling gun violence in neighborhoods like Greenville with equal urgency. It means investing in community-based solutions that address the root causes of violence while also ensuring our police have the resources they need to keep us safe. It means being a leader who listens to every voice—not just those with the loudest platforms or deepest pockets.

Rahmiere Morris deserved better from us as a city. His family deserves justice, just as much as the man attacked outside Exchange Place does. These tragedies should unite us in our shared commitment to making Jersey City safer for everyone—not divide us into haves and have-nots.

I’m running for mayor because I believe in a Jersey City where no one is left behind—where every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. Together, we can build a city that works for all of us—a city where safety isn’t determined by your zip code or your socioeconomic status but is a right guaranteed to everyone who calls Jersey City home.

Let’s make it happen—together.

About Joyce Waterman:

Joyce Waterman serves as Council President for Jersey City. Known for her commitment to public service and community development, she has been a strong advocate for policies that promote equity and opportunity across all sectors.