(TRENTON) – Assemblyman Nicholas A. Chiaravalloti (D-Hudson) issued the following statement reflecting on diversity and unity in advance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day:
“I am proud to have recently taken the oath of office to serve as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly representing Bayonne and Jersey City. Our community is rich in diversity and continues to serve as a gateway to waves of individuals and families seeking the American Dream. Our strength is built on welcoming and incorporating the new while being guided by our traditions.
“As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are reminded that we need to keep the dream alive, to strive for a city, state and nation that recognizes and respects the intrinsic value of each of its citizens. There are many challenges facing our communities, and there are those who would resort to name calling and scare tactics to get their way. However, like Dr. King, we must reject hate and embrace love. As he said, ‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.’
“As I serve Hudson County in the state Legislature, I will be guided by one of my favorite Dr. King quotes, ‘The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.'”
