Freshta Taeb Condemns Antisemitic Comments by Manalapan Students, Calls for Compassionate Education and Accountability

Freshta Taeb, a candidate for the New Jersey General Assembly in Legislative District 12, today released the following statement in response to reports of antisemitic remarks made by local students:

“As a mother, educator, and advocate, I am deeply saddened by the reports of antisemitic comments coming from students in our community. Words that target or demean others based on their faith, background, or identity have no place in our classrooms; or anywhere in New Jersey.

Our children reflect the values we teach them. When hate surfaces, it is a reminder that we must do more to educate not only minds, but hearts. We have an obligation to teach empathy, history, and respect so that every student grows up understanding the power and responsibility that comes with their words and actions.

I stand firmly with our Jewish neighbors and every family who feels the pain of intolerance. As a community, we must choose to respond to this moment with unity, compassion, and action. Healing begins with accountability and continues through honest dialogue and inclusive education.

Hate has no home in Manalapan. Together, we can build a community where every child no matter their faith or background feels safe, respected, and valued.”

Taeb holds a background in education, and this is a segment of her larger ongoing campaign to restore funding, and confidence in the district’s schools. Taeb’s platform stands for common-sense solutions and leans away from engaging in ultra-partisan politics. As an educator she has witnessed the effect of discrimination firsthand and has always been a steadfast opponent of it.