Outgoing Hoboken, NJ, Mayor Ravi Bhalla apologized for flying the Palestine flag over City Hall on December 9.
December 9 is a significant date for Jewish people. Why?
The First Intifada started on December 9, 1987.
Bhalla said he flew it “following requests from local residents of Palestinian descent.”
Hhmmm…..did those people of Palestinian descent ask him to fly it on the 9th?
“I want to state unequivocally that this association was not known when the scheduling was approved,” Bhalla wrote on Facebook. “I understand that this coincidence has caused concern for some members of our community. This was not our intention – rather it was simply to recognize local residents who call Hoboken home.”
Diversity!
“I want to be clear that the act of raising this flag is not, in any way, shape or form, intended as a political statement by the City of Hoboken,” claimed Bhalla. “Hoboken is a municipality and takes no position on international political conflicts because it is not within the purview of municipal governance. As with other communities, this flag raising is an acknowledgment of our Palestinian neighbors – mothers, schoolchildren, brothers and sisters in Hoboken – and an affirmation that they, too, are part of our community.”
Bhalla equated raising the Palestinian flag to when City Hall flew the Breast Cancer Awareness flag, the Italian flag, the Puerto Rican flag, and so many more.
“Our City has routinely opened this space to residents who wish to celebrate their heritage, and today was no different,” Bhalla said.
I have a CRAZY idea. Stay with me because it is insane. Like, mind-blowing.
Are you ready?
How about government entities only fly the American flag!?
A Vermont school district had to take down its website after backlash for flying the Somali flag instead of the American flag.
Here’s the full statement on Facebook:
Earlier today, the flag of Palestine was raised outside of Hoboken City Hall, at my direction, following requests from local residents of Palestinian descent, and in keeping with our city’s long-standing practice of recognizing the many cultures and communities that make Hoboken special. This is the same process through which we raise the Italian flag, the Mi’kmaq flag, the Puerto Rican Flag, the Breast Cancer Awareness flag, the Progress PRIDE flag, and many, many others throughout decades and many administrations in Hoboken’s history. Celebrating diversity is a part of Hoboken’s character.I want to be clear that the act of raising this flag is not, in any way, shape or form, intended as a political statement by the City of Hoboken. Hoboken is a municipality and takes no position on international political conflicts because it is not within the purview of municipal governance. As with other communities, this flag raising is an acknowledgment of our Palestinian neighbors – mothers, schoolchildren, brothers and sisters in Hoboken – and an affirmation that they, too, are part of our community. Our City has routinely opened this space to residents who wish to celebrate their heritage, and today was no different.However, it has since been brought to my attention that today’s date holds historical significance related to the First Intifada. I want to state unequivocally that this association was not known when the scheduling was approved. I understand that this coincidence has caused concern for some members of our community. This was not our intention – rather it was simply to recognize local residents who call Hoboken home.Our City’s commitment to inclusivity means that no community should be overlooked or denied the chance to be recognized, because Hoboken’s strength lies in its diversity, and each flag we raise symbolizes the cultural richness of the people who live here. We have raised flags representing Puerto Rico, Ecuador, India, Ukraine, Israel and many others. Extending that same respect to Palestinian residents is consistent with our values as a Fair & Welcoming City and with the principles we apply in every similar situation.Especially in moments of pain or conflict around the world, it is vital that our residents feel seen and supported. As Mayor of the entire City of Hoboken, my responsibility is to treat all community members equally, without exception. I am proud to lead a city where people of all backgrounds, including Palestinians and those who stand with them, can feel welcomed and valued.I appreciate the grace, honesty, and dialogue that so many residents have already shown, and I hope we can continue to engage each other in the spirit of recognizing our common humanity, especially during these challenging times.Sincerely,Ravi S. BhallaMayor
[Featured image via YouTube]
CLICK HERE FOR FULL VERSION OF THIS STORY