To the Editor:

Based on The Bee story "NHS 12/14 Tribute Mural Covered Over," Newtown, personified by Dr Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, is in danger of becoming an example of grievance rewarded or worse.

In 2014, two NHS students, Lindsay Fouri and Mairin Hayes, created and executed a mural, "In loving memory" of the tragedy of 12/14/12. The project was approved by the high schools principal at the time. The student body, apparently, also approved of the mural.

According to the article, Dr Erardi alleges that the mural was brought to his attention as being problematic to students, "as they really struggled with the daily walk through and how they endured 12/14."

Was this a rumor or an actual complaint?

How many complaints were there?

Who lodged the complaints?

The mural artist is identified, why not the aggrieved?

Was the aggrieved student(s) referred to the many mental health providers available to help him or her deal with their concerns?

Was there an effort to determine the number of students who enjoyed and appreciated the mural?

Were the aggrieved students offered the opportunity to attend another high school in the area? Even covered over, the aggrieved know the mural is behind the "sheetrock."

This situation reminds me of towns where one or a few atheists protest the public display of nativity scenes and/or menorahs. The Christian and Jewish members of the community are denied the display of their faith's icons.

Is this what Newtown will become or did Dr Erardi make an uninformed decision?

The online petition by Savannah Mather seems appropriate to give a voice to the affected.

Henry Ruddy

113 Bagley Road, Southbury         February 2, 2016