To the disturbance of many Cliftonites, Blue Lives Matter insignia has proliferated throughout our great city. Emerging after nation-wide protests against police brutality, the slogan sends a clear political message. Painted in front of city hall and across the side of new patrol vehicles with taxpayer money, the so-called “thin blue line” further divides our community. The premise behind the line is that police stand between lawlessness and order. Today, in co-opting the Black Live Matter slogan, Blue Lives Matter, now symbolized by the blue line, is seen as a provocative, unapologetic and reactionary response by those bringing attention to systemic racism in this country. 

Instead of standing with its citizens, the city is literally drawing a line across the ground, placing its police on one side and citizens on the other. In doing so the city is displaying their unconditional support for their officers as they remain silent on anti-black violence. 

Clifton should not be home to divisive imagery, provocative gestures and inaction from its local government that fosters animosity and division. Neighboring towns, including Woodbridge and Montclair in New Jersey, have already taken action to remove these divisive symbols. Is it Clifton's turn? In signing this petition you are asking Clifton police to cross and erase the divide and join its community in love and support.