Hackensack's Mayor and Council, and their friends on the Board of Education, were asked to sever their ties with BOE Trustee Frances Cogelja over a year ago. However, instead of siding with Hackensack residents in demanding her resignation, they stood by their political ally, excusing her bigoted comments and harmful rhetoric.

For too long, their silence was complicity. Now they seem to be shocked that she's found herself in hot water again, this time by refusing to vote for a symbolic anti-racism resolution.

Like the over 1800 concerned individuals who have joined statewide elected officials in calling for her resignation, we know that Cogelja does not represent Hackensack values. She has proven that over and over.

It is time for Cogelja to put Hackensack first and surrender her seat on the Board. Our students and staff deserve leaders who will look out for the best interest of all, regardless of race or sexual orientation.