Common Cause/NY Calls on DOE to Investigate Electioneering at Bronx Public School

Student received a coloring book featuring State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr., images attached

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NEW YORK, NY (11/07/2017) (readMedia)-- Common Cause/NY received an email last night from a concerned parent in the Bronx who found coloring books (images attached) featuring State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. in their child's book bag. The child reported receiving the coloring books at the Samara Community School from a teacher. Mr. Diaz is a candidate on the ballot today for New York City Council District 18, although the school where the student received the material is not in the district.

In response, Susan Lerner, Executive Director of Common Cause/NY issued the following statement:

"Although it's not technically campaign material this is in essence electioneering to parents through their children at school, which is supposed to be a non-partisan space for learning. Candidates for office and teachers may not use children to communicate political propaganda. The BOE should conduct an immediate investigation and make clear that this conduct is unacceptable."