Asserting Rights- As American as Apple Pie”,

Regarding 101.5 FM's "The Jersey Guys":

Thanks for "Radio racism" (Editorial, April 29) and important coverage of the Jersey Guys' offensive remarks and stereotyping of Asian-Americans.

Hiding behind freedom of speech and the guise of "entertainment" gives no one license to demean entire groups and question their loyalty and patriotism.

Not mentioned, however, were negative remarks about the rising influence of Arab-Americans seeking support of candidates running for New Jersey governor. The radio hosts stated that "Arabs" should not determine our leaders. Perhaps they are unaware that 250,000 Arab-Americans live in New Jersey. As citizens, their right to vote is equal to that of any other citizen.

For a long time, our community has been unrepresented and its interests marginalized. There is nothing wrong - and everything American - in its taking a vigorous role to push its issues to center stage.

It may often be best to ignore stupid and outrageous comments. But sometimes decent people must remind those who make offensive remarks of the need to apologize and learn from their mistakes.

Aref Assaf

Denville, May 11

The writer is Executive Director  of the American Arab Forum of New Jersey.