Sussex County Commissioners Denounce Violence at the Capitol Building

CONTACT:
January 12, 2021 Jennifer Jean Miller
862-273-5379
jenniferjeanmiller@gmail.com

(Newton, NJ) In the wake of the violence on Jan. 6 at the United States Capitol Building, the Sussex County Board of County Commissioners shared the following statement: "What we witnessed in our nation’s capital last week has no place in our nation. Violence in the wake of elections is unacceptable and threatens our institutions and values," stated Commissioner Deputy Director Anthony Fasano. "The challenges we face are best faced together.”

Commissioner Sylvia Petillo continued, “The violent actions that erupted at the Capitol Building were disturbing and absolutely frightening. Right now, there is so much tension surrounding this election that it is easy to lose sight of the fact that we are all Americans. We should be proud and protective of what we have established and accomplished during our 245 years as a free Republic. Hopefully, moving forward we can put aside our differences, renew a united spirit, and remember...we all salute the same flag.”

“America has a long history of protest. It is a way for the citizens of the country to make their voices heard,” added Commissioner Herb Yardley. “But when it is combined with violence and destruction, it cannot be condoned.” “The violence on display at our nation’s Capitol Building is completely unacceptable,

and the loss of life horrifying,” stated Commissioner Director Dawn Fantasia. “We cannot condone violent protests, destruction of property, and blatant disregard for the rule of law, and must hold those who commit acts of violence accountable.”

Fantasia made reference to rallies and protests held across Sussex County, citing those political in nature, against racism, and in support of law enforcement. “Sussex County has been home to multiple rallies and protests spanning the past year, and not a single event ever escalated into violence of any kind, much less the type of violence we witnessed at the Capitol or in cities across the country this summer. This is a testament to the ideals and the standards the residents of our county hold ourselves to.

The right to free speech and to assemble peaceably is accompanied by the responsibility to exhibit behavior that ensures the safety of all persons and property, and I am proud that Sussex County proved

itself to be a shining example of how exercising our First Amendment rights should look.”