In Need Of A Civics Lesson

To the Editor:

The study of civics, which according to the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Second Edition, is defined as “The study or science of the privileges and obligations of citizens,” will be a Connecticut high school graduation requirement in the next few years.

The New York Times reported on October 19, “A Close Race Both Parties Think Is Theirs,” that a Nielsen sponsored Newtown “Town Meeting” (A town meeting is defined by the same source as “A general Meeting of the inhabitants of a town.”) prohibited entry to a man who was told, “You need an invitation to the event.” What the Times did not report was the barring of a Weston resident from a Nielsen sponsored Weston “Town Meeting” took place the following night.

What kind of message is Mr Nielsen sending? Government is not for the handpicked few; it is for all the people… People want inclusion, not exclusion. Whereas people can and do disagree at Town Meetings. Mr Nielsen’s discriminatory practice is unacceptable. Perhaps a lesson in civics would help.

Sincerely,

Devon Pfeifer

7 North Avenue, Weston               October 27, 2000