To the Editor:

On a personal level, as well as being Jewish and a longtime Newtown resident, I am disappointed by the incident at the Babe Ruth baseball game where players made derogatory remarks about each other. The Babe Ruth sportsmanship code specifically addresses such an issue: “Develop a strong, clean, healthy body, mind and soul. Develop a strong urge for sportsman-like conduct. Develop understanding and respect for the rules. Develop courage in defeat, tolerance and modest in victory. Develop control over emotions and speech. Develop spirit of cooperation and team play. Develop into real, true citizens.” Babe Ruth teen players are old enough, regardless of the “angst” that adolescence brings, to know better and follow such a code.

Unfortunately, it is common for players and parents to make negative comments about the officials' calls as well as players. When emotion is added to such condoned remarks, it is not surprising that they become increasingly personal and offensive. Those reacting to the comments are not being “too sensitive,” as is sometimes noted; a bigoted comment is meant to hurt.

I always tried to teach my children – as my parents taught me – not to stereotype or condemn anyone due to race, religion, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, or any other similar characteristics. I reinforced the importance of incorporating diversity into the Newtown school curriculum. Occasionally, I have heard blatant racist and anti-Semitic comments in town. Just last year, I was speaking with a Newtowner who made an anti-Semitic remark – maybe not even aware of its prejudicial nature. Much to his chagrin, I gave him the same speech as my kids. Whether this was a help or a hindrance, I'll never know!

In many respects, our country has come a long way in accepting – and even embracing – diversity, as noted by the recent Supreme Court ruling. Yet, as seen by the Charleston shooting and the ever-widening political polarization, we have a long way to go in handling our personal differences. Good sportsmanship should be continually emphasized, not only when an incident arises, and noncompliance disciplined.  At home and in the schools, it is the parents' and educators' responsibility to teach children the wonder of diversity and how it makes our country, and humankind in general, so unique and special. 

Sharon L. Cohen

8 Eden Hill Road, Newtown                    July 26, 2015