Clifton Needs Volunteers for New Civil Rights Committee

Image

May Yuasa's mural with a raised fist painted over.

By Tova Felder, Contributor, The Clifton Times

In the summer of 2021 the City Council had a big problem on its hands and it all started with a beautiful mural.

May Yuasa, a recent CHS graduate, had secured permission from City Manager Nick Villano to paint the mural under the Allwood Road underpass. When her design sparked some controversy, the city painted over a raised black fist with the pictured white rectangle. Many community members, outraged by this display of censorship, organized and demonstrated at City Hall in support of Yuasa and her mural.

Ray Robertello was one such community member. During a regular City Council meeting Robertello proposed that the city create a civil rights committee, staffed by members of our very diverse community. The idea was to have an organized group that would look at issues like the mural and help ensure that city personnel are making fair and non-discriminatory decisions.

Clifton needs 32 volunteers - 16 active members and 16 alternates - to help staff this committee, which will also include several Council members and city employees. They are hoping to attract people from a wide spectrum of backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

If you are interested in being considered, you can request an application from the City Clerk or download the form here. Completed applications should be delivered to the Clerk's office at City Hall.



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