Racial Justice Coalition Calls Suspension of Public Defender Part of Attacks on Pro-Palestine Voices

Calling the suspension of New Britain assistant public defender Joshua Perldeiner, “part of a concerning series of attacks on pro-Palestine voices across Connecticut and the United States,” the New Britain Racial Justice Coalition said it supports Perldeiner.

The organization called for, “respectful and constructive conversations to address the concerns raised by this incident and stands firmly against any attempts to suppress voices advocating for justice in the Palestinian cause.”

Fox 61 reported recently that Perldeiner, “has been suspended with pay for allegedly distributing a ‘pro-Palestine and anti-Israel’ newspaper at the courthouse,” adding that,

Judge Richard Palmer, chair of the Public Defender Services Commission, said that Joshua Perldeiner was suspended with pay because he is believed to be the person who put copies of “The Red Clarion” in the waiting area at the public defender’s office.

The Coalition said that,

This incident is not isolated but part of a broader pattern targeting individuals critical of Israel’s policies in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition condemns any attempt to stifle free expression and dissent on matters of international concern. Being critical of Israel should not be equated to anti-Semitism, and the Coalition emphasizes the need to differentiate between political discourse and discrimination.

Fox 61 reported that Palmer said public defenders not being permitted to use their offices for politics as a reason for the suspension, and that the case was under review.

The Coalition, a local organization advocating for equity and justice, said that it, “acknowledges the gravity of the situation and underscores the principles of due process and fairness.”

“The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition urges all stakeholders involved to approach this matter with sensitivity and a commitment to fostering open dialogue,” the Coalition said. “In times of controversy, the organization emphasizes the importance of preserving the principles of justice and accountability.”

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