George argued that having six Israeli flags for every single American flag sends a clear message: the public identity of Long Branch is being overshadowed by partisan or foreign symbolism. Many in the room described feeling “nervous, anxious, and unwelcome.”
For George — and many others — this is not simply about flags; it’s about fairness, representation, and the preservation of community identity. SIGN PETITION NOW!
Legal and Civic Grounds: Pier Village’s Status
A key point often overlooked in heated rhetoric is the legal status of Pier Village. While privately owned today, the land was originally taken by the city through eminent domain and redeveloped for the public good. As George pointed out during the public comment period: that history arguably gives the site a “quasi-public forum” status, meriting public-first flag representation.
Moreover, city documents indicate that the municipality continues to support Pier Village — through promotional materials, public safety resources, and policing — effectively using taxpayer funds to subsidize the site.
If public resources maintain a role there, many residents see the site as deserving public-forum norms, including symbols that reflect American unity.
Despite these arguments, the city attorney has clarified that Long Branch lacks the authority to regulate the flags on private property. The fact remains: Pier Village is privately owned — making the legal case more complex.
What the Petition Calls For — and What George Stands For
On November 7, 2025, a petition on Change.org titled “Replace Israeli flags with American flags at Pier Village” was launched. SIGN PETITION NOW!
The petition argues: The disproportionate number of Israeli flags undermines the inclusive, American-first identity of the community.
The display can feel exclusionary to residents who are not supportive of the policies or symbolism associated with the foreign flag.
Since Pier Village was acquired through eminent domain, its presentation should reflect the public trust — meaning American flags, not a foreign national flag.
George’s participation and vocal advocacy align directly with the petition’s call for fairness and representation. He stands for a Long Branch where everyone — regardless of background or political conviction — feels seen under the same flag.
The Moral Argument: Community, Identity, and Respect
Beyond legal technicalities, George’s fight touches a deeper moral chord: what does it mean for a shared civic space to fly foreign flags in a way that drowns out the American identity? For many, public spaces should reflect the collective — not a subset’s political or ethnic affiliation.
As one petition signer put it:
“The Israeli flags have come to represent violence for all the people who have been hurt by the ethno-state. These flags tell those people ‘You are not welcome. You do not matter.’”
Whether or not one agrees with that sentiment, it captures why people like George — and many residents — feel compelled to fight: it’s not about singling out a group, but about affirming that public areas should represent all citizens equally.
Why George’s Voice Should Matter to Long Branch
He raises awareness of the complex history behind Pier Village and its public-private hybrid status.
He calls for democratic representation — giving voice to residents who feel sidelined.
By pushing for equal flag representation, he invites a larger conversation about identity, inclusivity, and what it means to be part of a single civic community.
Ultimately, he challenges the notion that private property — especially when subsidized by public resources — can ignore the values and identities of the broader community.
George’s fight isn’t about hostility toward any group; it’s about unity under a banner that stands for the nation all residents share.
Whether you support his view or not, George’s fight highlights a critical debate about public identity, property rights, and the voices that truly belong in Long Branch’s public sphere. For many, removing or equalizing the flag display at Pier Village is a step toward restoring trust, fairness, and an inclusive sense of community.
If you believe public spaces should reflect all — not just some — voices, then George’s stand deserves serious consideration and we ask you support America First Efforts by signing your name to the petition online: SIGN PETITION NOW!
