Democratic Congressional Candidate Jim Keady announced endorsements today from social justice activists and religious leaders, Rabbi Marc Aaron Kline, JD, of Red Bank, and Reverend Gil Caldwell (pictured with Keady above), of Asbury Park, who marched with Dr. King during the civil rights movement.

“I am honored to have the support of Rabbi Kline and Reverend Caldwell for my campaign,” said 4th District congressional candidate Jim Keady. “I have stood beside both of these leaders in speaking out on behalf of the disadvantaged communities in the district. Together, we will stand up for all of the residents of the 4th District so that we can defeat Chris Smith in November.”

Rev. Gil Caldwell, a Civil Rights movement veteran who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, noted Jim’s efforts to serve marginalized communities as an Asbury Park Councilman: “I first met Jim Keady when he was serving on the Asbury Park City Council and was a strong voice for the people in town who had been underrepresented for decades – the poor, the marginalized, the powerless. I watched Jim fight battles from the council dais that were informed by his commitment to being in the streets, always listening to the people, and always amplifying their voices and concerns. At times he reminded me of the nonviolent warriors Dr. King and I marched with during the Civil Rights movement. Over the years this has been descriptive of my approach to politics and justice-making; “I have no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, just permanent interests.” I have voted for Democrats, Republicans and Independents. Jim Keady, I believe, will respond to the interests of all people, in a way that unites us rather than divides us. In these times, Jim’s is the kind of common sense, moral voice we need on Capitol Hill right now. This is why I wholeheartedly support Jim Keady’s run for the United States House of Representatives and I encourage others to do the same.”

Rabbi Marc Aaron Kline, JD, of Red Bank, referenced Jim’s background in theology and social justice activism, stating: “Over the past year plus, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking alongside Jim Keady, as we march for justice, stand up for people in need who get marginalized by society, lead people to find their voices in the struggle to return dignity to every human, and fighting for a better, more loving, and dignified society. Jim’s unflinching commitment to ideals that transcend any particular religious faith or creed make him the type of person that we desperately need in Washington, D.C., right now. This is why I am publicly supporting Jim in his 4th district congressional run, and I am encouraging other faith leaders – and all people of this community – to do the same. Our voices need to be heard and acknowledged.”