Booker, Menendez slam Hackensack BOE member who disparaged LGBT people

U.S. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker on Monday slammed Hackensack school board member Frances Cogelja over comments disparaging a new state law that requires New Jersey schools teach LGBT history.

“New Jerseyans take pride in our rich diversity and the invaluable contributions made by each and every community to our neighborhoods, economy, arts, and culture.  Our LGBTQ community is essential to the fabric of our state’s identity as a warm and inclusive place to live,” The two senators said, adding later: “Hackensack Board of Education Trustee Frances Cogelja’s comments are discriminatory, hurtful, and simply do not represent New Jersey values.”

In February, Cogelja sent emails to Hackensack’s acting superintendent disparaging a law signed the same month that requires the state’s public schools teach students about the contributions of gay and transgender individuals.

She has since apologized for the comments.

Those emails were released by candidates who unsuccessfully attempted to oust Cogelja from the seat.

“I find it repugnant that someone’s sexual preferences have anything to do with their contributions or achievements in society,” Cogelja wrote. “Everywhere I turn, this alternate lifestyle narrative is being shoved [down] our children’s throats. Where does it end?”