Local New Jersey Democrat, Paula Gilligan, has faced calls for her resignation after sharing a meme on social media that mocked Easter with references to drag and abortion. The meme suggested that Easter eggs are “aborted chicken babies that are painted in drag for small children to worship,” which sparked immediate backlash from the community, especially Christians who demanded an apology and for Gilligan to step down from her position on Glen Rock’s all-Democrat, all-female council. Some individuals are planning to protest her actions at the borough’s next council meeting.
Gilligan later issued an apology on social media and the council’s website, stating that her intentions in posting the meme were to express her views on abortion and transgender issues, but she notably made no mention of Easter in her statement. She emphasized that her personal Instagram does not represent the official views of the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Glen Rock. The controversy surrounding Gilligan’s post comes just weeks after residents of Glen Rock stood against antisemitism following instances of vandalism, showing solidarity in the community.
The mayor and other council members released a statement apologizing to community members who were offended by Gilligan’s actions. They stressed the importance of respecting everyone’s religious beliefs and traditions, especially when a social media post is made by an elected official. The statement acknowledged the significance of Easter and the symbols associated with it for those who celebrate, and expressed a commitment to representing and supporting all residents of Glen Rock, regardless of their beliefs.
Gilligan has not indicated whether she will resign and did not respond to requests for comment. Local Republican leader Barry Wilkes expressed his disappointment in Gilligan’s actions, particularly given the timing just before Easter. Wilkes highlighted the negative impact of such behavior on children who may be confused by these actions, and stated that a group is exploring the possibility of launching a recall effort against Gilligan. He encouraged community members to attend the upcoming council meeting to protest such behavior by a local elected official.
Wilkes emphasized the importance of having council members who are respected and trusted by the community, and criticized Gilligan’s actions as divisive and hypocritical. He urged people to show up in large numbers at the council meeting to demonstrate that such behavior is unacceptable from an elected official. The controversy surrounding Gilligan’s post has reignited discussions about the role of public officials and the importance of respecting all religious beliefs and traditions within a diverse community. The outcome of this situation may have lasting impacts on the relationship between Gilligan and the residents of Glen Rock.
