Jack Ciattarelli’s hate does not represent New Jersey. His offensive, uninformed comments are out-of-touch with New Jersey family values – love, acceptance and compassion.  Our state classrooms educate students about the pivotal contributions of LGBTQ people in history despite the persecution and barriers they faced.

It’s revolting to hear a Gubernatorial nominee of a major political party regurgitate the same, tired talking points we have heard for decades from anti-LGBTQ leaders and discredited shock-jock personalities. Teaching LGBTQ inclusive lessons reduces the rates of bullying in schools and can save lives. At a time when suicide and bullying rates among LGBTQ youth are still at alarming levels, we deserve elected leaders who will prioritize inclusion, not pander to far-right ideologues.

New Jersey is the state that does not hate. Jack Ciattarelli’s comments are hate and division.