Teaneck, NJ- Teaneck Democratic Chairwoman Alexandra Soriano-Taveras issued the following statement in response to a selectively edited video crafted to give the impression that Soriano-Taveras is anti-semetic or harbors any anti-semetic sentiments:

“The edited video clip has been taken out of context and weaponized against me in the darkest, most destructive of ways. I have nothing but respect and appreciation for the Jewish community in Teaneck, District 37 and all of New Jersey.  There was a call to action in Teaneck this past summer and I attended to speak up and speak out against our town leadership who once again was not listening to the voices of our community. In a moment of passion I urged those in attendance not to shop in the businesses owned by town leadership, but after more thought and careful consideration of the impact on our small businesses I took no such action and led no such effort.

I am a school teacher and I have devoted my life to promoting unity, acceptance and inclusion of all cultures and backgrounds. But I have also devoted my life to speaking up against unfairness and injustice.

It was not my intention to offend anyone by my statement or to single out any community and for that, I am sincerely sorry. Let me be clear:  I love our Jewish community, I treasure the contributions my Jewish  neighbors make to Teaneck and to the world, and I have always and will always stand up against anti-Semitism. I am sorry for any pain or offense this video may have caused, and I renew my commitment to stand against hate and bigotry in all forms and at all times.”