August 5th, 2024
Dear Mayor Fulop,
We hope this letter finds you well. We are writing to express Garden State Equality Action Fund’s grave concern regarding recent reports that Jonathan Gomez, a member of your LGBTQ+ Task Force, has made financial contributions to his sister Valentina Gomez’s campaign for Missouri Secretary of State. Her campaign is marked by hate-filled rhetoric, particularly targeting the transgender community. She continues to double down on this rhetoric on social media. It must be addressed.
Valentina Gomez’s rhetoric is not only discriminatory but also dangerous. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes and incites hostility towards the transgender community, increasing the risk of violence and discrimination against an already vulnerable population. Such rhetoric is incompatible with the values of equality and respect that we strive to uphold and it begs the question why Jonathan would even contribute to a candidate with this question.
As the leading LGBTQ+ statewide advocacy organization in New Jersey we find it deeply troubling that a representative of your LGBTQ+ Task Force would support a campaign rooted in bigotry and discrimination. This support not only undermines the mission of the task force but also sends a harmful message to the LGBTQ+ community and allies within Jersey City.
Given the severity of this issue, we respectfully request the following actions:
1) Removal of Jonathan Gomez from the LGBTQ+ Task Force: It is imperative that the task force members embody the values of equality and inclusivity. Mr. Gomez’s actions are incompatible with these values.
2) Public Statement Condemning Valentina Gomez’s Campaign: We urge you to issue a statement clearly distancing your administration from Valentina Gomez’s discriminatory platform. Such a statement will reaffirm your commitment to the principles of equality and justice for all, including our transgender and gender non-conforming communities.
We believe these actions are necessary to restore trust and demonstrate a steadfast commitment to the values that Jersey City upholds. We are available to discuss this matter further and provide any assistance needed to address these concerns.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent issue.
Sincerely,
Garden State Equality Action Fund Board
Chair, Jeannine Frisby LaRue
