Legislators Denounce Trump’s Racist Post

“We are outraged by the President’s sharing of a racist meme – and frankly, outrage doesn’t even begin to cover it. This is not just offensive, it is a blatant act of dehumanization rooted in centuries of racial hatred, from slavery to segregation, designed to demean and harm Black people.

“‘That it comes during Black History Month, a time designated to celebrate the achievements Blacks have made to the growth of America, makes it even more outrageous, insulting, disrespectful and disgusting,’” said Rockland County Legislator Dr. Dana G. Stilley, the first Black woman to serve on the Legislature.

“The President swore an oath to uphold the Constitution, which guarantees equality, dignity and equal protection under the law. Sharing racist imagery directly violates the principles of that oath and sets a dangerous example for the country.

“‘This deliberate racist action by the President inflicts real pain, stokes division and sends a harmful message to all Americans – especially our children – about who is valued in our society when ALL should be,’” Rockland County Legislator Toney L. Earl said.

“We condemn this action and call for accountability. We have fought too long and too hard to allow this behavior to go unchecked. Racism has no place in the White House, in public life, and in our country. We will not stand silently and allow it to slide.”

Statement Issued By Rockland County Legislators Paul Cleary, Beth Davidson, Thomas F. Diviny, Toney L. Earl, Joel Friedman, Lon M. Hofstein, Moshe Hopstein, Jay Hood Jr., Douglas J. Jobson, Will J. Kennelly, Jesse M. Malowitz, Aney Paul, Raymond W. Sheridan, Philip Soskin, Dana G. Stilley, Alden H. Wolfe and Itamar Yeger.