A disturbing video circulating online shows Dr. Ibrar Nadeem, introduced as the Executive Director for Muslim Relations for gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, declaring that “We want to have a ban on same-sex marriage” and insisting he is not “taking money from Jews.”
This isn’t just offensive — it’s dangerous. It reveals, in plain view, the kind of hate-fueled coalition Jack Ciattarelli is welcoming into his campaign.
Let’s be absolutely clear:
- Same-sex marriage is the law of the land. Threatening to “ban” it is not only unconstitutional — it’s a direct attack on LGBTQ+ families across New Jersey.
- Antisemitism has no place in our politics. Using “not taking money from Jews” as applause-line rhetoric is beyond reprehensible.
- Bigotry doesn’t come in silos. When politicians tolerate hate against one group, they give permission for hate against all of us.
Jack Ciattarelli can’t hide behind silence. Every second he fails to denounce this language is a second he tells LGBTQ+ and Jewish New Jerseyans that their lives and safety are negotiable.
New Jersey deserves leadership grounded in equality and truth — not the politics of division and scapegoating. We condemn the attempt at the Ciattarelli rally to frame Jewish giving and Islamic faith as opposing forces. This rhetoric not only fuels antisemitism and Islamophobia but distracts from the real issue — a campaign that seeks to roll back marriage equality and divide New Jerseyans for political gain.
Garden State Equality calls on Jack Ciattarelli to immediately and unequivocally condemn these remarks and cut ties with anyone spreading this hate in his name.