Senate Holds Moment of Silence In Honor of Tyler Clementi
TRENTON – Before beginning its voting session today, the state Senate held a moment of silence in honor of Tyler Clementi, the 18-year-old Rutgers University student who tragically took his life on Sept. 22, after a video taped encounter of him with another man was disseminated on the Internet – an incident that has sparked outrage and sympathy nationwide. Senate President Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland) made the following comments in the Senate Chamber:
“Our state was shocked yesterday by news that a young man at Rutgers, Tyler Clementi of Ridgewood, had taken his own life.
“It is a reminder that while we dedicate our offices to helping people, and pass laws to protect our residents, there are some who our work and the law cannot protect until it is too late.
“It is my hope that this tragedy will spark much-needed discussions in kitchens and dining rooms, schools and workplaces, and college campuses across our state – and across the country – on the very real problem of bullying.
“Tyler Clementi is far from the first victim of bullying in the Internet age, but we must resolve to make him the last.
“We begin our work here today with heavy hearts for the loss of an accomplished life which would have accomplished much more.
“To Tyler’s family and friends, this chamber sends its deepest and heartfelt condolences.
“In remembrance of Tyler Clementi, I ask the Senate to observe a moment of silence.”