TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman John Azzariti issued the following statement denouncing the recent surge of disruptive campus demonstrations and warned of the perilous consequences:
“I strongly denounce the behaviors that have instilled an unacceptable climate of intimidation within our academic sanctuaries. The very essence of our educational spaces is under siege, compromised not by external forces, but by individuals who, cloaked in the pretense of peaceful protest, have engaged in actions that disrupt and endanger.
“These demonstrations have strayed from the original goal of seeking peaceful reform to a climate where students – specifically of Jewish descent – are now living in fear for their safety. It is also of great concern that these protests have been supported and praised by Hamas, a terrorist group known for its violent acts and animosity towards the ideals of America.
“It is imperative to recognize that an endorsement from Hamas is not a mark of distinction; it is a disturbing indication that these protests are being overshadowed by extremist ideologies intent on provoking division and turmoil. These radical beliefs must not infiltrate the corridors of our universities, where the primary mission is to enlighten and educate, not to intimidate or oppress.
“Furthermore, the specter of antisemitism that has arisen amidst these protests is profoundly troubling. The targeting of Jewish students, hindering their right to education and freedom of movement on campus, signals a resurgence of prejudice that we have all too often witnessed throughout history. Such discriminatory acts under the guise of protest are unacceptable and must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
“As an Assemblyman, it is my obligation to safeguard all members of our community, and as a physician, I am bound by my oath to prevent harm. Regrettably, tangible harm is being inflicted upon the mental well-being of our students and the integrity of our educational institutions. I implore my legislative colleagues, university administrators, law enforcement officials, and all morally aware citizens to stand with me in opposing this alarming trend of disruptive demonstrations.
“We must urgently work to ensure that our academic institutions remain bastions of safe learning, and that the well-being of all students is upheld. We must unequivocally communicate that while peaceful protest is a Constitutionally-protected act, when such acts escalate to the point of menacing conduct and obstruction of academic pursuits, it will be countered with appropriate legal measures. We cannot stand idly by while the voices of tolerance are silenced by the discordant roar of upheaval. There can be no further tolerance for such disruption.
“The eyes of the world are upon us, and the annals of history will not forget the decisions made at this critical juncture.”
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