The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), along with a coalition of civil rights organizations, faith leaders, and community groups, have submitted a joint sign-on letter to Gov. Phil Murphy, urging him to veto a bill that could be used to criminalize peaceful protest and suppress constitutionally protected speech.
The New Jersey Legislature on March 24 passed bill A4652 / S3507, which contains vague and overly broad language that threatens the First Amendment right to assemble.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE LETTER.
In a sign-on letter dated April 28 addressed to Murphy, CAIR-NJ wrote, “Cloaked in the language of public safety, the legislation instead introduces vague and overly broad provisions that create legal pathways to criminalize protest and suppress dissent— especially from marginalized communities.”
ACT NOW – URGE GOV. MURPHY TO VETO A4652 / S3507.
CAIR-NJ Government Affairs Associate Maheen Mumtaz issued the following statement:
“Across our community –from youth and grassroots organizers to faith leaders and advocates– peaceful protest is a vital tool for change. If this bill becomes law, our collective ability to organize and express dissent could be criminalized overnight.
Governor Murphy has a choice: Stand with the people of New Jersey to protect our constitutional rights, or allow vague and dangerous legislation to silence the very voices fighting for justice. We urge him to veto A4652 / S3507 and ensure that New Jersey remains a place where civil liberties are respected and protected.”
The letter also highlighted the legislation would:
- Criminalize public gatherings that aim to challenge injustice or advocate for change
- Punish individuals for organizing demonstrations that may cause “public inconvenience or annoyance”
- Open the door to selective enforcement, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities
- Create a chilling effect on speech, discouraging people from speaking out or participating in protests for fear of legal consequences
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, aelamroussi@cair.com, 551-208-5482