TRENTON – The Coalition Against Hate and Bigotry today called on radio talk host Don Imus to do community service to atone for his racist and sexist remarks about the Rutgers Women’s Basketball team.
“Mr. Imus’ apology is a good start, but it’s not enough,” said Coalition member, New Jersey State Senator Raymond J. Lesniak. “He should also give some of his personal time to meet the players and do some good for the community. Working with the team on a project of their choosing will help him discover for himself the outstanding character, sensitivity and humanness of these fine young women whom he so unfairly maligned.”
The members also sent a letter to the players and coaches expressing their empathy for the pain cause by the remarks and their pride in the accomplishments, dedication, and good sportsmanship demonstrated by the team and coaches throughout this past basketball season.
The Coalition Against Hate and Bigotry was established to create an open dialogue to address circumstances of hate and bigotry. With its diverse membership, its primary function is to educate. For more information about the Coalition, please contact Erin Caragher at 732-857-7455.
Members:
Senator Raymond Lesniak
New Jersey State Senator, 20th District
Mayor Jun Choi
Mayor of Edison
Barbra Casbar Siperstein
Director, Gender Rights Advocacy Association of New Jersey
Dr. Levent Koc
Director, The Interfaith Dialog Center
Etzion Neuer
Anti Defamation League
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation
Juan Martinez
Council of Latino Organization of Mercer County
Patrick R. Brannigan
Executive Director, New Jersey Catholic Conference
Polish Legion of American Vets
Polish American Congress
Pulaski Day Parade Committee
Rev. Bruce H. Davidson
Director, Lutheran Office of Governmental Ministry in New Jersey and
Representative, New Jersey Council of Churches
Steven Goldstein
Chair, Garden State Equality