DiMauro overreached with wall sign column

I’m not sure of Mike DiMauro’s point in his column, “Don’t let racism become normalized, please,” (Oct. 5), but I know he never misses an opportunity to preach to those of us who are less intelligent or less enlightened than he. He says, “I envy your blissful ignorance or pity your tacit racism.”

He writes, “This does not say Lyme and Old Lyme are safe harbors for racists.” But when he asks, “What is being taught in your house? What language is acceptable? Are racial epithets used?” he infers the contrary. Even his title, “Let’s not let racism be normalized” indicates otherwise.

This episode doesn’t mean that the Lyme and Old Lyme communities are racist. It doesn’t mean that the kids are racist. It means that they’re kids, who are sometimes unthinking. Which of us can’t look back at our school years and regret something we did or said?

DiMauro’s real issue seems to be everyone’s reluctance to talk to him. He calls it cowardice, but really, why should anybody talk to him? This situation should be dealt with — but not publicly.

Everybody can learn from this episode. The students can learn that words can be hurtful. Administrators can learn to read and approve all signs before they can be displayed. DiMauro can learn that he can write thoughtful columns that elicit a response without generalizing or overreaching. Stephen Bickford Stonington

Editor’s note: The author was formerly the principal of Wheeler High School in North Stonington.