New Haven Independent

Posted by: Peter Goselin | June 6, 2008 10:25 AM

The Meriam-Webster online dictionary defines prayer as follows: "a (1): an address (as a petition) to God or a god in word or thought (2): a set order of words used in praying b: an earnest request or wish2: the act or practice of praying to God or a god 3: a religious service consisting chiefly of prayers --often used in plural4: something prayed for5: a slight chance "

When proponents of school prayer talk about prayers that don't offend atheists or don't mention god they fail to understand that the very term has religious connotations. Crafting a prayer that manages to avoid specifically referring to a god or gods doesn't make it non-religious.

While I am sure that proponents have the best possible intentions, the plain fact of the matter is that our Constitution does not permit mandatory prayers in public schools, nor does it permit prayer as a part of the curriculum from which some students may be "excused."

That's it. No vitriol. I'm not angry that someone thinks this would be a good thing or wants to promote it. I have no interest in bashing proponents for feeling the way they do. It's simply a settled matter of law that to do what they are advocating would violate the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Period. End of story.

Posted by: Jason | June 6, 2008 10:31 AM

I'm curious to know who "secular prayer" will be directed at. This sounds like one horrible idea by Morehead, and he is a great fool if he thinks it will go off without a hitch (ie. a large number of lawsuits).

And as for his comment about not choosing to participate in the gay & lesbian sector of society, the difference between that and what he's proposing is that schools don't designate a time of day when all the children are asked to tongue-kiss a member of the same sex, but allow the straight kids to sit out if they feel it necessary.

You know, in Morehead's day parent's used to beat their kids more often and more violently than they do today - maybe he should pass legislation encouraging that.

Posted by: Ned | June 6, 2008 10:32 AM

"Morehead, who is recovering from foot surgery"; what's the matter doesn't "faith" healing work for him?

Posted by: Webblog 1 | June 6, 2008 11:02 AM

Morehead, I salute you for your personal convictions, however, your convictions have no place in the political arena. The so called prayer sounds more like a poem, even the writer did not call it a prayer, so why do you persist in doing so?

"he said, insisting that he is not "trying to force anything on anyone."

That is precisely what legislation will do, Stupid.

To suggest that you will introduce legislation to make this payer/poem a mandatory recital in the school system is improper and in direct contradiction with federal constitution law and CT. state statues. You need to research the issue more closely before making such an offering. The proper path is a consult with the the New Haven school board(your employer).

If you are really interested in your community's welfare you would have shown more interest in the new science park proposals and the 1,286 parking space garage to be built in your back yard, which potentially will cause millions more carbon monoxide airborne pollutants to the residents you represent at Monterey Terrace. You failed to attend this important meeting.

While your up-bring suggest your heart is in the right place. Your head and your politics are not.

So while I salute you, I also have grave reservations about your smarts.

Posted by: James | June 6, 2008 11:13 AM

Greg, either you don't listen, don't care, or don't think that the constitution is a particularly onerous roadblock. If you want to pursue legislation that I don't agree with, of course that's your prerogative. It goes to a vote and the people, through their elected officials approve it or don't. If the whole city got behind me going to work in a pink tutu every day, well, I guess I'd have to abide. That's the price of living in a democracy. You have your say, and at the end of the day you are in the majority or you're not.

But now you're wasting your time and everybody else's. School prayer, no matter how you couch it, is unconstitutional. Period. You're not the first person to have this idea and you'll certainly not be the first to try to find a way around it. I'm sure you believe that you're just fighting the good fight, but if you pursue a lost cause in the face of a forgone conclusion at the cost of other important issues facing the city, you're doing us all a disservice.

This is not an anti-religious rant. It's not an anti-Greg rant. It's a plea from a resident of this city to get back to the work at hand and spend your resources pursuing something that will not end in failure at best and a costly lawsuit at worst.

Posted by: East Shoreguy | June 6, 2008 11:20 AM

Maybe I am wrong but I don't see what all the fuss is about. If Morehead wants to pursue this as an issue he feels strongly about so be it. We do have courts that act as checks and balances on these things. As a Catholic I can say that it is kind of nice to see elected officials that have some sense of moral belonging.

Posted by: Ben | June 6, 2008 11:22 AM

This guy cracks me up.
What does he mean, "not to participate in the "gay and lesbian sector" of society."

Did a New Haven public school teacher try to make [the alderman] a lesbian when he was in grammar school?

This matter will always go back to our constitutional rights Greg, don't dig yourself into a hole of bigotry while your at it.

You're not smart enough to navigate yourself through it.

Posted by: Walt | June 6, 2008 11:35 AM

I know it will get nowhere but do recall that when school prayer was permissable, we had no teenagers photographing their @#$%^&@s and publishing copies throughout the nation.

Women than did not have the right to choose to kill their babies.

Drug use was not rampant (never even heard of it), and heavy drinking by kids was nearly unknown, at least among the kids I knew.

Songs were good and also clean. I do remember when the song "She had freckles on her
but(t) she was nice" was considered very daring.

Much better back then in my opinion.

Posted by: Sally Tamarkin | June 6, 2008 11:49 AM

"...just as he can choose not to participate in the "gay and lesbian sector" of society."

What an analogy. Being gay or lesbian is now an activity, like school prayer, which we can opt-in or out of at will? Huh, interesting.

As his quote illustrates, Morehead's stance on this issue is wrongheaded on so many levels. I am astonished that prayer in schools is actually being considered as a realistic and approrpiate possibility by an elected official in our city.

Posted by: Ali | June 6, 2008 12:02 PM

"Thank you for your mercy. We bless you for your grace, eternally grateful for your protection surrounding this place..." Secular??? And if I am an atheist, exactly to whom am I grateful? Who am I thanking? See Peter's post above about the definition of prayer.

And Walt - every generation has been dismayed by the perceived decline in morals (and everything else) in the succeding generation. Now that I am a parent I too find myself saying things like you stated above (some of them anyway). But in the end, there is whole lot more to the picture than the lack of prayers in school. As many other posters have pointed out, parental and community (and wider) involvement are a far more effective tool than prayer.

This whole waste of time irritates me (hey alderman - work on the budget!!) but for once I'm not too worried about it becoming anything than that because for once, I have faith in the courts to uphold my right to be free FROM religion.

Posted by: Ned | June 6, 2008 12:07 PM

Wow, homophobia is so 1950's.
"While I am sure that proponents have the best possible intentions" - Why give them the benefit of the doubt? - Mr. Morehead has already revealed himself as homophobic

Posted by: elmcityguy | June 6, 2008 12:11 PM

Once again, you want your kids to pray in school, send them to parochial school. I fully support your right as a parent to do that. There are some excellent parochial schools in the state.

If you would like to be treated with respect, treat others the same way. Don't attept to ridicule other's beliefs by saying it is just a little prayer, it doesn't count. Until you can stop attempting to force prayer into schools, I'll continue to explain that my child will not be part of your talks to an imaginary friend.

Why must everyone be forced to take part in your ritual? Why should a teacher be forced to LEAD your ritual?

Mr. Morehead, you are in a position to really try and change things in New Haven, yet you are focusing on forcing religion down people's throats. Rather than take the lead on a losing cause, why not take the lead on figuring out how to stop killing us with taxes, or how to stop the towing gestapo from driving around like mad men. Rather than praying in school, perhaps making sure all the classes are staffed, so they don't go half a year with a sub, which has happened to my daughter twice in 3 years, at different schools. You seem like you really do care about New Haven, I just feel this is the wrong path.

Posted by: True New Havener | June 6, 2008 12:25 PM

Alderman Morehead,

Maybe you really need to just let this go. You are quickly moving from a well-respected thoughtful alderman in my eyes to a thug who will not educate himself.

I have chosen the term "thug" because of your choice to slur our brothers and sisters who happen to be gay or lesbian. What any of this has to do with people being gay or lesbian is completely beyond me. What in the world do you think the "gay and lesbian sector of society" is?

Is it the sector of society where people care about each other, is it the sector where people pray to God, is it the sector where people fight for civil rights and try to raise their children the best they know how? Because for many people I know both gay and straight, those are the sectors of society that they occupy. And God willing it is a sector I aspire to join them in.

Bigotry, like trampling the constitutional rights of others, has no place in our great city.

I really do want to suggest that you find one of your friends who is either a lawyer or who has studied American government and ask them to explain to you why the constitutional separation of church and state exists.

And stop talking, and scaring people, until you do.

Posted by: FIX THE SCHOOLS | June 6, 2008 12:31 PM

I pray every day...that we get a new BOE.

Posted by: cedarhillresident | June 6, 2008 12:31 PM

"HOLY COW" (ya no, the one I have in my yard that I worship daily) Who is this guy??? WOW....Ben I am with you!!
I am glad you are voicing your personal opinion and maybe you are representing the majority of your ward Greg. But wow! You just offended a large part of New havens population (or at least family members of). Sorry,.... I would not want to force my belief that their is nothing wrong with the gay community on you, just like I would not want your religion forced on my kids in school!

I just want to point out that pray will never work and the two threads in the NHI and the two sides of it are why!! It is way to controversial! and as someone else pointed out the law suits will be lining up if it happens

Posted by: robn | June 6, 2008 12:57 PM

WALT,

I miss the good old days too...like in the post civil war period when cocaine could be freely gotten in refreshing beverage form, indoor plumbing was a novelty, lynchings were common, and the average life expectancy was half of what it is today. ahhh...the good old days.

Posted by: DingDong | June 6, 2008 1:07 PM

With all this city's problems, now we have to waste time on this circus. Thanks Alderman Morehead. (And don't tell me that prayer will solve the city's problems because if you believe in that, we all might as well to move to Iran).

Posted by: Alfred Credenza | June 6, 2008 1:41 PM

elmcityguy wrote

"...you want your kids to pray in school, send them to parochial school."

Completely agree!

Posted by: James | June 6, 2008 1:44 PM

East Shoreguy
Yeah, most would agree with you that he can pursue any legislation he likes. The point here is that yes, we do have checks and balances and they have long ruled against such ideas. What's wrong with it is that he's wasting the time and money of his constituants. Men and women much more powerful than Mr. Morehead have tired and failed. This is settled law. This is not Roe v. Wade (there is no mention of abortion in the constitution) and is not really open to interpretation beyond the academic realm in terms of prayer in school. If he wants to pursue an academic debate, he can join a debating society. If not, he should get back to work on issues that have some chance of success.

Posted by: Carolyn | June 6, 2008 1:52 PM

It is very sad to say that all of you in opposition of having Prayer put back into schools, have not shown any concern regarding the issue that has prompted this movement. Why hasn't there been any positive mention as to the lives at stake here? Your views should not be heard because you don't care. How could you consider yourself to be decent citizens of New Haven, when you carry such negative attitudes?

I thought we were all adults here? It's not all about you and your negative energy. You should also consider that when Mrs Kirkland, presents her case, she would have built a pretty good one against the atheist. Think about it... the New Haven School spokeswoman said that Kirkland has her heart in the right place. Take a hint... a positive veiw will always gain respect. No way has America been that blinded by satan and his followers, that they will allow the atheist to dictate the morality of our children. Aren't you a hate group? You hate everything good right? And your very self centered correct?? If im wrong why hasn't anyone addressed the issue at hand? As Kirkland earlier stated "THE CHILDREN"?? Prayer is coming back to our schools whether you like it or not! Come on people laws change everyday so please don't use that as the basis for your argument. Actually as you hit the panic but, you prove that there is in fact power in prayer that's why your horns are raised.

But, hey I guess you've missed yet again, the real issue at hand "THE CHILDREN" of New Haven that are dying due to gun violence. But of course it's impossible for people filled with hate to think about how this could have a positive affect on the children who are facing violence. What can you offer them? Go Kirkland Go...Go Alderman Go....Fight for New Haven's kids because at least you care about their lives.

Posted by: Ben | June 6, 2008 2:41 PM

In light of all of this, I would like to welcome Mr Morehead as our first religious zealot to the quorum of crazies, including myself, that occupy the digital pages of NHI on a daily basis.

Us liberals can always use a little homophobia to remind us why we're united.

Posted by: -fairhavener- | June 6, 2008 2:53 PM

All of the really good points have been made already, so I just ask that everyone bow their heads for a prayer (this is a non-secular prayer, so those of you who might be offended please stop reading, this isn't mandatory or forced on anyone):

Dear Little Baby Jesus in the Manger with no crib for a bed and a star in the heavens over our flat, little earth that was created by your father in six days, we beg you to please help our alderman, Greg Morehead of Dixwell, to get over his bigotry and hatred of homosexuals. We also ask that you help him see the light. Please guide him to make better decisions as to how he exerts his efforts and energy to help the city of New Haven. We know that he isn't that smart and there isn't much you can do about it at this point, but please Little Baby Jesus in the Manger, please, don't let Morehead waste our city's resources on a lost cause that violates our first amendment. We have starving babies, people getting killed by cars, an insane mill rate and taxes, out of control city spending, failing schools, a police force that doesn't work (but somehow works a lot of overtime), tow trucks that reek havoc on the city, and an egomaniacal mayor. Please Little Baby Jesus in the Manger helpGreg Morehead of Dixwell do the right thing and resign. Thanks Little Baby Jesus.

Posted by: Alderman Greg Morehead | June 6, 2008 3:10 PM

Just wanted to clarify a couple of things..
When i made the statement about not participating in the gay and lesbian sector of society, I was reffering to parades and other events that go on in the world and you have people that choose to opt out. I was referring to children in schools opting out of the prayer if they were atheists etc. By no means am i a homophobic like some have mentioned.
Secondly-
Why do people get so uptight when you bring up God, religion, or prayer? If i wanted to bring this up or support Ms Kirkland if i wasn't an Alderman, would i still be bashed like I am now? Again, who knows how this would play out. Some have said that i need to stop using my resources for this cause. What resources have I used? I just chose to support a cause that i feel strongly about. Is that a crime?
Third-
Weblog wrote-
If you are really interested in your community's welfare you would have shown more interest in the new science park proposals and the 1,286 parking space garage to be built in your back yard, which potentially will cause millions more carbon monoxide airborne pollutants to the residents you represent at Monterey Terrace. You failed to attend this important meeting.

--FYI, How do you know that I haven't shown interest? Because I didn't attend that meeting? I have been at various meetings regarding Science Park publicly and behind the scenes and personally met with Carter Winstanley concerning the future of Science Park. I raised questions of importance to him that MY constituents have had. Him and I have been conversing on various concerns for that area. I have also been in contact with my other colleagues because the improvements at Science Park would effect them also. So, how am I not interested in my communities welfare? Do you live in Ward 22? Do you get the newsletters that i put out quarterly to the residents to keep them informed? Do you see the jobs that i include from employers looking for residents in the Ward to work, do you see the activities that i raise money for so that our kids and Adults can go on various bus trips for FREE? Do you call me and ask whats going on with XYZ? I am very much in tune and involved with what goes in my Ward. I get countless calls and emails daily and many issues are rectified, but if you don't live in the Ward, you don't know. Please don't throw stones if you don't have all of the facts.
Fourth-
Some have said in their comments that they have lost respect for me. Why? Cause I have stood for something that I feel would be beneficial? Or is it because i am doing something that you don't agree with? I got into this position to bring about a positive change in my community and If this falls through by me supporting Ms Kirkland, at least I can say I tried.
I know also, that someone will ALWAYS have something to say about the GOOD that a person does and the BAD, but thats life. I know that!
So if you're going to continue to bash me, thats your opinion just like its my opinion for what i choose to stand for!

Regards,
Alderman Greg Morehead
www.ward22newhaven.com

Posted by: AJMC | June 6, 2008 4:44 PM

Two Words! Absolutely Not!

Posted by: elmcityguy | June 6, 2008 4:50 PM

I'm still waiting for one of you prayer in school supporters to explain why you cannot put your child in parochial school rather than force mine to pray.

Mr. Morehead, I get what you mean about the parades and stuff. You phrased it a bit on the sloppy side, but who hear hasn't done something like that. But, the thing is, opting out means you don't go there. Where is the opting out when you are in school. You are there, you are surrounded by people praying and prayer. Thats like forcing you to go to Gotham on gay night and say you can opt out of being around gay folks.

I actually discussed this subject with both my wife and my father yesterday. I put a lot of thought into it, and the best compromise I could come up with is a voluntary, pre or after school prayer group. It would be treated the same as any other extracurricular activity. Just like I don't want anything forced down my family's throat, I don't want to deprive those of you who'd like your children to pray with their peers of that. I just won't stand for it being part of the official school day.

Posted by: JMS | June 6, 2008 4:57 PM

"It's simply a settled matter of law that to do what they are advocating would violate the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Period. End of story."

Only it's NOT the end of the story because we're all still talking about it. Alderman Morehead... please learn and/or stick to the laws of the government in which you hold elected office. As far as I am concerned your pursuit of this cause is grounds for relieving you of your elected position.

JMS

Posted by: Alonzo Fyfe | June 6, 2008 5:19 PM

If the program is being adopted to promote stronger moral values, and atheists can opt out, are you not saying that atheists have the option of opting out of having strong moral values? And the only way that a person can have strong moral values is to opt out of atheism?

The very foundation of this policy is denigrating. No government entity has a right to its atheist citizens that "Our attitude is that you are morally inferior to other citizens and the only way for you to improve your moral standing in this community is to accept God."

Because, if atheists are capable of the same moral competence as theists - if you are NOT asserting that atheists are morally inferior to other citizens, then there is no sense in saying that a prayer program instills higher moral values.

Posted by: Webblog 1 | June 6, 2008 5:31 PM

Greg,
while I do not live in your ward, I do live in the city of New Haven. Like many, if not most of the current Aldermen, you believe that your only responsibility lies in your activity within your individual ward. That outlook is contrary to your oath of office for and in the city of New Haven. While you may very well be sending circulars of jobs and bus rides to your constituents, this activity is countered by your nearly 99% voting record backing the city administration, often to the detriment of your ward constituents. Therefore, I beleive you are practicing deception on the people who depend on you to represent their best interest.

That being said,
I realize that the above is not the central issue. Unwittingly Greg, you inserted yourself squarely in the center of this debate and your opinion is far in the minority, so as to make yourself the target of what is perceived to be a church vs state issue.

We all realize that something has to be done about the civil disobedience running rampant today, but most do not agree that legislation is the answer. You cannot legislate you way out of a personal human evolutionary problem. I believe the problem is innate and ingrained in our society. The solution lies in leadership which leads by example and exposes individual revolution of the self.

As a elected official you need to pay closer attention to what you present to a wide and differing citizenry.

Get your act together Greg.

Posted by: Deuce | June 6, 2008 5:48 PM

I'll approve of school prayer when the churches pay taxes.

Posted by: Brent Rasmussen | June 6, 2008 6:05 PM

So if you're going to continue to bash me, thats your opinion just like its my opinion for what i choose to stand for!

You just don't get it, do you Alderman? When you "stand for" something as an elected official, you represent other people.

You don't get to have a personal opinion, and then back up that personal opinion - such as with this silly prayer in school thing - with the power of your elected office. It's just that simple.

As an elected official, you represent the public face of the government. According to both the U.S. Constitution, and the Constitution of your state, the government cannot legally advocate for one religion over all others, or no religion.

It is unconstitutional, illegal, and if you pursue this you'll do nothing except embarrass yourself and your state.

This is a lost cause, Alderman. You're tilting at windmills. It's been tried, and it fails - expensively - every time.

Here's how to do it legally; resign your office. Then, as a private citizen, start your own private religious school and include school prayer there.

Public schools are not the place for this.

Posted by: -fairhavener- | June 6, 2008 7:32 PM

Well said Alonzo FYFE.

Posted by: No More Mr. Nice Guy! | June 6, 2008 7:44 PM

"Morehead is recovering from foot surgery" - presumably after jamming it into his mouth too hard.

Why are so many politicans obsessed with using the coercive power of the state to shove their private religious beliefs down taxpayers' throats? In 200 years, no-one has said it better than Ben Franlkin:

"When a religion is good, I conceive it will support itself; and when it does not support itself, and God does not take care to support it so that its professors are obliged to call for help of the civil power, 'tis a sign, I apprehend, of its being a bad one."

Posted by: New Haven Student | June 6, 2008 8:38 PM

One of the previous posters talked about how all the comments made so far haven't addressed the reasons why Mr. Morehead is pushing for this policy in the first place.

I am a student at New Haven public high school. I am agnostic. I am disgusted by Mr. Morehead's lack of respect for the Constitution, freedom, and gays and lesbians (as if they have their own sector of society). I won't restate the great points that many of the previous posters have brought up, rather I'd like to provide some other solutions that would accomplish similar goals without the same imposing religious undertones:

1) get rid of AP classes: although these classes are currently some of the best in the system, they add considerable stress to students' lives, while placing considerable emphasis on passing a test. Moreover, these classes create a gap between those who take them and those who don't. Instead of offering college credit early, give us something to look forward to while in turn improving all classes. Get rid of tracks that define students' future successes by what they have done in the past. Instead of requiring certain courses, give students the opportunity to design their own classes. From the very beginning, emphasize why each particular concept is necessary. Hint: it shouldn't be the CMT or the CAPT.

2) Despite what I said about not having mandatory classes, each student should have to go to one class period a day of some sort of stress relief. However, this should be designed by the individual student. If they simply want to be able to leave early, that should be an option. Yoga classes? They should be an option that would also fulfill the gym requirement. Students could spend that class period talking to a counselor (of which there should be more of). And yes, they could even pray if they wanted to.

3) Respect should be a universal idea, and it is often thought of in the same context as the moral values many religions pontificate. However, if Mr. Morehead's comments are any indication, religious morals are no guarantee of respect. Students should be taught how to respectfully disagree, and they should be given a forum to do so. Currently, many students feel they have no avenue through which to voice their concerns. This disillusionment gets channeled into disrespect for parents, teachers, and other students.

While I argree that schools have many problems, forcing students to pray isn't going to solve any of them. In reality, it distracts from the actual issue and takes everyone's time away from coming up with real solutions.

Posted by: Scot M. | June 6, 2008 9:34 PM

Dear Alderman Morehead, thank you for commenting in such a respectful manner. I'm sorry for the bashing you're taking here. Although the sentiments expressed are correct, the tone sometimes isn't helpful. I also appreciate the fact you're going to bat for one of your constituents.

But, the whole idea of school organized prayer is abhorrent to me. Even if I were religious, it would feel too much like coercion. It's not as if kids couldn't pray whenever they felt like it anyway.

Also it seems silly to me to have a non-sectarian prayer. If you're not directing it to a particular God, what's the point? It becomes equivalent to the Agnostic's Prayer (printed below). Maybe the answer is (and I'm serious about this) to institute a rotating schedule of prayers of different faiths. One day, pray to Christ, one day to Allah, one day to Zues, one day to the Flying Spaghetti Monsters, etc. And one day of course, without prayer.

THE AGNOSTIC'S PRAYER:
Insofar as I may be heard by anything, which may or may not care what I say, I ask, if it matters, that you be forgiven for anything you may have done or failed to do which requires forgiveness. Conversely, if not forgiveness but something else may be required to insure any possible benefit for which you may be eligible after the destruction of your body, I ask that this, whatever it may be, be granted or withheld, as the case may be, in such a manner as to insure your receiving said benefit. I ask this in my capacity as your elected intermediary between yourself and that which may not be yourself, but which may have an interest in the matter of your receiving as much as it is possible for you to receive of this thing, and which may in some way be influenced by this ceremony. Amen.

Posted by: -fairhavener- | June 6, 2008 9:39 PM

Well said Ben Franklin.

Posted by: SteveC | June 6, 2008 10:28 PM

Children are required by law to attend school. They may attend private schools, and enjoy or endure whatever indoctrination those schools are selling. But, if they cannot, or do not want to attend private schools, they may attend public schools provided by the same government which requires they attend school of some kind.

If prayer -- *any* prayer -- is made policy , then that prayer is made mandatory policy of the U.S. Government, enforced by law on U.S. citizens. Anyone who cannot figure this out, and realize it is unconscionable and unconstitutional is too ignorant or too stupid to be fit for public office.

Resign.

You've shown yourself to be unfit for office by either stupidity or ignorance. Either way, resign.

Posted by: In The Hood | June 6, 2008 10:45 PM

Saying all the prayers in world and then not reading to and with your kids is a complete waste of time.

This woman and misguided alderman need to be helping parents and guardians read, or, learn to read to and with their children.

Posted by: walt bradley | June 6, 2008 10:52 PM

Alderman Morehead, I respect your beliefs, and i absolutely respect the rights of all of us to choose in what we do and do not believe in and practice said beliefs. It's when these choices become mandatory that their true meaning and strength become lost. Free thought, regardless of what one is thinking, should be welcomed and encouraged by our students - however they should be kept to themselves. I'm sure there are plenty of 17 year old boys who've got some thoughts about the anatomy of their study partner that we all think is best kept to himself, although we protect his right to think it. We also protect the right of some people to pray - for strenght, encouragement or a passing grade on thier history test - but they should keep it between themselves and the almighty. If the prayer is truly from the heart, nobody else needs to know.
As far as your very unfortunate gaffe about homosexuals, and your pitiful clarification, you are not going to convince me you mean anything else than you don't like homosexuals.
What would happen if a white alderman chose not to march in the freddie fixer (assuming it comes back) or a spanish alderman snubbed an invittation to the st. patrick's parade, or a black alderman decided not to intermingle with puerto ricans when the parade comes to new haven? They'd be branded as racist, and justifibly so. I bet you've got 100 maybe 200 homosexuals maybe much more- in your ward. are you legislating in their best interests? Can they trust you now?
Until last week the only public face you've presented to us was one of a big shot "toinight show" band man. I wish you'd kept it that way.
You were not born here, you did not attend New Haven's public schools, you've skipped lawmaking sessions to further your music career, and now you are imposing your religion on my children, and snubbing an important minority in the name of your god. I am not impressed with you sir.

Posted by: nina | June 7, 2008 12:52 AM

like i said on the other thread:
forced prayer, regardless of whether or not it is religion neutral, is trite and an oversimplification that will accomplish nothing but a drill routine for kids. to believe that it will enlighten and uplift is naive.
it's sort of like saying that instead of learning and doing some hard work to make things change, i'm just gonna wish it! i also agree with threefifths assertion that god and the bible were used to justify some of the more nasty things this country was founded on; as apposed to morehead's claim that this country was founded on prayer and when there was prayer things were better.

i found an article in the yale daily news about greg morehead with an interesting juxtaposition of

" Still, Morehead's favorite artist to work with -- Ludacris, who often finds himself embroiled in controversy because of lyrics in songs like "I Want to Lick You" and "You'z a Hoe" -- practically epitomizes that very flashiness.

But, at least according to Morehead, who first played with the Southern rapper in 2005, Ludacris' appeal runs much deeper than that.

"One time, while the band was warming up, I was changing the peddle on the drums and someone was tapping me on the shoulder," Morehead recalls, "I turned around, and it was him. He said 'Thanks for doing this.' Out of all the artists, he was the only one to personally come to all of bands and talk to them. Things like that I don't forget."

so, i guess it may not be too much of a stretch to say that, to morehead, little niceties - - like forced prayer and saying hi - - are more important than real substance and character as well as real solutions to new haven's problems.

the full article can be found here:
http://www.yaledailynews.com/articles/view/23772

Posted by: Dennis | June 7, 2008 3:52 AM

Thank you, Carolyn, for pointing out that this is all about your desire to force your religion onto other peoples' children.
Please realize that it is perfectly legal for students to form a prayer group to pray before and after school, as well as on lunch break. So contrary to your claim, prayer has never been truly taken out of schools. However, the courts HAVE determined it is unconstitutional to have teachers lead students in prayer as a part of the school day.
If by some miracle this legislation passes, the city will be opening itself up to costly lawsuits that it most certainly will lose, and Mister Morehouse will be remembered by many voters as a supporter of wasting tax money on to defend obviously unconstitutional legislation.

Posted by: John Tulin | June 7, 2008 11:30 AM

Wouldn't our schools be better off if we just put Jesus in charge of them directly? Or what makes even more sense - an ancient monkey-god known for his strength and valor.

(from CNN)

Indian school names monkey god chairman

LUCKNOW, India (AP) -- He's a revered Hindu monkey god. And now, he's the chairman of an Indian business school.

Hanuman, the popular god known for his strength and valor, has been named official chairman of the recently opened Sardar Bhagat Singh College of Technology and Management in northern India, a school official said Saturday.

The position comes with an incense-filled office, a desk and a laptop computer. Four chairs will be placed facing the empty seat reserved for the chairman and all visitors must enter the office barefoot, said Vivek Kangdi, the school's vice chairman.

"It is our belief that any job that has the blessings of Lord Hanuman is bound to be a success," said Kangdi.

All Hindus know that Hanuman can lift mountains and leap oceans, but ancient texts make no mention of his business acumen.

"When we were looking for a chairman for our institution, we scanned many big names in the field of technology and management. Ultimately, we settled for Lord Hanuman, as none was bigger than him," Kangdi said.

Hanuman is one of the most popular gods in the crowded pantheon of Hindu deities. His most famous feat, as described in the Hindu epic the Ramayana, was leading a monkey army to fight the demon King Ravana and rescue a kidnapped princess.

Oh boy......

Posted by: Aagcobb | June 7, 2008 11:37 AM

Mr. Moreland:

Maybe people have lost respect for you due to your abysmal ignorance. A person charged with making law should make an effort to educate himself about the constitution, so he has some idea of what can be legislated. You can't make a school prayer law constitutional by telling children who don't belong to the preferred religious class that they can self-identify themselves as second class citizens by sitting out in the hall during the state-sponsored religious service. The case law is crystal clear and well-settled on that issue. All you can hope to accomplish is to ensure that the school district is subjected to an expensive civil rights lawsuit.

Posted by: True New Havener | June 7, 2008 12:48 PM

Alderman Morehead,

First, I appreciate your clarification regarding the gay community. Your first comment was sloppy. I still don't think you were right to have made the comment but your clarification goes a long way towards explaining your intent. As an example, it was not appropriate for Hillary Clinton to use the assassination of Robert Kennedy to remind people that things happen in campaigns. There are some bridges you should not cross -- doing so undermines your point which can be reached much more easily.

Second, I have never questioned your commitment to your ward and your explanation of your work with Carter Winstanley on Science Park is not at all surprising to me. You are well known for working hard.

Third, you are wrong on this issue. Lots of people have explained why. My sense is that you are starting to understand that so I will leave it alone.

Fourth, your support of Ms. Kirkland seems to be what is holding you back from just letting this go. (The original thread had virtually no comments until you joined in -- it is much scarier for a person with elected power like yourself to hold these views than a regular person like the rest of us.)

Ms. Kirkland is no doubt a fine person. She appears to not understand three things: (1) that in the United States you cannot do what she wants even if she tries to finesse it by having a prayer which tries to be neutral on the issue of god, (2) many people in New Haven and across the country take this very seriously and are not insulting her (or you) they are arguing forcefully to protect the future of this nation, and (3) that many good people do not share her religious beliefs and have come to being morale, decent people via their own path.

That Ms. Kirkland has found her path through a connection to Jesus Christ is wonderful. However, other people find their path to a sane, meaningful, just, caring life and community through other means. In fact, most people in the world do not share Ms. Kirkland's religion, yours or mine. This is true even in many countries that have far less crime or violence than ours.

Finally, there is no opting out of prayer in school. Why should a 5 year old kid in kindergarten have to be obviously different than other children because her parents have raised her to be Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, or Atheist (and thus require her to not join the prayer)? Why should that child be forced to ask her parents why her beliefs are different than her classmates? Why should a teacher, who we tell our children they should listen to and obey, be in a position to undermine the path I have chosen for my family?

Fighting for your community is a great thing. Listening to members of it who you have offended is equally important.

I actually think you are listening.

Posted by: stevesywonder | June 7, 2008 5:44 PM

Mr. Morehead:

How did you ever become an elected representative in New Haven? Was prayer in school part of your platform? Your response on this chain is equally entertaining; transparent homophobia notwithstanding, how can you compare a city parade (of whatever variety) to prayer in our school system? Mr. Morehead, you might cease and desist further public commentary on this matter. Everything you have said publicly is both laughable and outrageous.

Please spend more time on legislation that will help clean vacant lots, push community policing further, and help allocate more community funding toward our utterly dysfunctional housing program. It is a shame that the Board of Aldermen could not save the housing programs; it will be a long winter on the streets for many of our residents.

Maybe the kids in school can pray for them.

Posted by: Carolyn | June 8, 2008 3:08 AM

If Alderman Morehead and Mrs Kirkland's hopes to get prayer back in schools is so unconstitutional, or better yet a waste of time, why are you all so worried?? You are in complete panic mode because your master(satan) knows that when God speaks something has to happen... O but I guess you don't believe that either huh?? Well, stick around, I bet this prayer back in school movement marks the most controversial, constitutional upset america has ever seen. I think all this talk about prayer is making you all nervous because you really want to become Christian's and begin living a positive life...come on....at least think about it!!Smooches!!

Posted by: Edward_H | June 8, 2008 10:14 AM

Morehead

Why do people get so uptight when you bring up God, religion, or prayer?

Most of the people posting here are not "uptight" for the simple fact you are bringing up religion, they are "uptight" because you suggested you would propose legislation supporting school prayer. There is a huge difference. Under normal circumstances religion can spawn vigorous debate, you should expect heated responses when suggesting you will use your position as Alderman to propose legislation supporting school prayer or any prayer for that matter.

If i wanted to bring this up or support Ms Kirkland if i wasn't an Alderman, would i still be bashed like I am now?

You probably would. People with bad ideas are routinely bashed on the NHI, even people with good ideas are sometimes berated. As a public figure you should expect your ideas and proposals to gain much more scrutiny. Especially when you show such utter disregard for not only the U.S. constitution but 40 plus years of Supreme Court rulings regarding school prayer. Citizens, for some strange reason, seem to expect the Alders to have at least a basic familiarity with the U.S. Constitution, I think we are seeing this is not the case.

Some have said that i need to stop using my resources for this cause. What resources have I used?

Although you have not done so yet you have clearly suggested you plan to use your influence and position as an Alderman to propose legislation for School prayer. As for the resources you have used thus far:

1) The innate soapbox and instant media attention you have as an Alderman.
2) The prestige and goodwill you gained from the popular belief you are a younger, positive Alderman with new ideas
3) Lastly, the most precious resource any of us have, time.

I just chose to support a cause that i feel strongly about. Is that a crime?

No, it is not a crime but your proposal is clearly unconstitutional so please don't play the wounded martyr.

Some have said in their comments that they have lost respect for me. Why?

The biggest reason seems to be because you have chosen to blatantly ignore the constitutional issue nearly everyone has raised. Or maybe we all just wrong in assuming you know what the U.S. Constitution is?

According to many parents the New Haven Public School system is doing a barely adequate job at educating their children and nourishing their bodies , now you want to add school prayer to the list of things the school system does poorly?

New Haven Student

Excellent post. I love reading well thought out logical statements from young people. Keep up the good work.

Posted by: jms | June 8, 2008 11:43 PM

Let's face it. Back when this issue came to our attention we all gave Alderman Morehead the benefit of the doubt and assumed that his good intentions were simply misguided or maybe even just a sincere and genuine attempt to bring attention to an important issue. But in light of his clear and deliberate efforts to explain and justify his position in the face of overwhelming and legitimate opposition and well spoken arguement we can no longer give him that benefit of the doubt. Clearly now he has established his position as being either one of (1) ignorance or (2) apathy towards law of the land... a law that may very well represent one of the single most important tenents of our system of goverment and way of life. Alderman Morehead's insistance on staying the course of his arguement is (to me) a sure sign of selfishness and ignornance. Sorry... but it's time to call this what it is... a stupid idea from a confused and misguded man.

You seem to insist on digging yourself in deeper and deeper Mr. Morehead. We will all be sure to spread word of your folly come election time. The time can't come soon enough for you and this bullshit to go away. It's a crying shame that you can't seem to be made to understand the error of your ways. Clearly you care about these issues. But you are 100% wrong on this matter... 100%.

JMS

Posted by: Jay | June 9, 2008 12:24 AM

Alderman Morehead: I think you're taking money from a Karl Rove astroturf organization. Long after I sniff you out, you'll realize it wasn't worth your credibility as a man and position in the community.

Posted by: facChek | June 9, 2008 11:14 AM

Enough,
More-head has been hammered!!!

Posted by: cedarhillresident | June 9, 2008 2:56 PM

How about a compromise.

Pray is out of the question but....maybe have each class start the day with something...maybe teach kids what random acts of kindness are and once a week have them say what random act they have done...maybe a poem to start the day. Maybe some kind of an Indian circle where they pass a stick and each give an answer to a question of a problem in the world or with people and each gives an idea on how to change it. Pray singles out kids! But something along these lines would be a great compromise and acomplish what you think pray would

Posted by: The Tr33 | June 9, 2008 3:41 PM

I would like to start off by saying, HOW RUDE AND DISRESPECTFUL can Adults get????

They want us youth to have respect for eachother, but you adults continue to do the opposite.

Alderman Morehead, came to my school for a workshop with my class, he is a very kind and patient man. He is a great example of a role model, a role model that the boys (future men) of New Haven need.

Whats wrong with a little small prayer???? Ask us the STUDENTS if we have a problem with it. We used to do the pledge of allegiance everyday. And when we refused, you had to go to ISS...How fair is that?

If there are students that dont want to resite it, dont make them.

Kirkland and Morehead are only trying to make this city a better place.

Posted by: True New Havener | June 9, 2008 4:39 PM

Hey The TR33,

First, I am not sure where in this comment thread people have been rude or disrespectful. As an adult, who chooses to run for office, Mr. Morehead has to expect his ideas to be in the public domain and be discussed. This discussion has been rational to say the least.

Second, have you read these posts? What's wrong with a small prayer? you ask. How about it is unconstitutional. No need to go over that again.

Third, I doubt you had to go to in-school suspension for not saying the pledge. You are guaranteed the right to not say the pledge of allegiance in this country -- plenty of court cases to back that up. If a teacher made you say the pledge, well then hopefully that was neither a history or civics teacher. However, unlike prayer, the courts have found that a school can have the pledge but cannot force someone who chooses not to say it on religious or other grounds to do so. On prayer the law is clear, they cannot have it during the school day (that's called the Establishment Clause of our Constitution).

Fourth, as an adult, I am going to encourage you to use a new screen name. I am guessing that your intent is to identify with "the Tre," the gang name for the Dwight-Kensington neighborhood. And so consider this some guidance from an adult who cares -- there are better things to identify with.

Finally, Alderman Morehead is right on many things and an honorable man who fights for his neighborhood. But when he is wrong it is just as important for other adults to tell him so as it is for us to support him when he is right.

Posted by: JMS | June 9, 2008 9:52 PM

(Well said True NH)

The TR33,

How rude and disprespectful can adults get? As rude and disrespectful as they need to in order to make sure Alderman Morehead is made to understand that his position is simply wrong (and unconstitutional).

Many of us have said several times that we believe his motives to be good. But he is dead wrong on school prayer... as are you. You ask "what's wrong with a little school prayer?" Besides the fact that it's absolutley illegal under the constituion... you cannot simply dismiss this as trivial or harmless. Imposing prayer on school children is a gross violation of their right to freedom of thought. You want to mold your kids in an image dictated by specific religious or spiritual doctrine? Go right ahead. But (again under the law of the land) my children are assured a degree of protection from forced or unwanted influence.

It's that simple. If you don't get it you're an idiot too.

(That last part was called "humor"... so don't get your underwear in a bunch.)

None of us would even be talking about this anymore if Alderman Morehead showed any signs of acknowledgement that he understands the law as it relates to this matter. It may come across as beating a dead horse... but this horse just won't seem to lay down... so neither will we. I consider it my moral obligation and civic duty to speak out against this kind of blind and misguided attempt to force prayer on our children.

JMS

Posted by: Alderman Greg Morehead | June 10, 2008 10:12 PM

I just want to clarify SOME things. My name is Mr. Morehead, not Moreland or Morehouse like some have stated.
Second,
It has been said, why don't I focus on other issues that are more prevalent in our community. I just get offended when people comment on something they feel I haven't done and they don't live in Ward 22. If you want to keep up with what i have been doing, please visit our Ward website at www.ward22newhaven.com. While you are there, please visit the "files" page and look at every newsletter and calendar that i have put out from May of last year up until the present and let me know if I haven't been doing anything! My residents can say that I do fight to get things done for them.
I just came back from taking 51 kids and Adults to Sesame Place in PA this past Sat. Each child was sponsored by corporations, churches and individuals, and we had a coach bus that was sponsored for us also.
I am boasting because some that don't live in the Ward(or don't participate with the functions)have said that I am not doing anything.

Let's forget about the prayer in schools article for one moment.. Think about this.. What are you doing individually to bring about a change to your community?
Everyone on here talks a good game, but what are you really doing for the community in which you live?
Are you partnering with people like myself in your area that are really about something to do more for the youth/Adults?
Are you really about seeing the area in which you live, come up from where it is?
Or, are you about stopping something positive that someone else tries to do because it isn't you that thought of it?
Some people have gotten into this position as an Alderperson because of the so-called power they get from it, but EVERYONE that knows me or has been around me, knows I do it because I have a genuine HEART for the people in my Ward.

The reason why I haven't posted something on this issue (prayer in schools)in a while is because, I don't feel the need to post something or try to defend my cause. I said what i had to say and i don't have to keep going back and forth with people that will only speak negative or downplay my opinions.

If you want clarification of anything that I have said in this post or prior posts, please contact me!!

Like I always say, Don't talk about it, be about it!

Regards,

Alderman Greg Morehead
www.ward22newhaven.com

----------THIS IS MY LAST POST ON THIS TOPIC------

Posted by: EarlyBird | June 11, 2008 7:29 AM

CedarHill - I agree! Why can't students have a pact/pledge/promise (call it what you will) to:

1. Respect themselves and each other
2. Respect their teacher and the knowledge and experience they bring to the classroom.
3. Acknowledge and respect the differences within their classroom and community
4. Pledge to bring their best effort to the learning process

Self respect/ respect for others need not have anything to do with religion. Surely Kirkland & Morehead can come up with a better template than their 'prayer'.

Posted by: Sally Tamarkin | June 11, 2008 10:03 AM

Alderman Morehead,
With all due respect, no one attacked how much you care about your ward or the people who live in your neighborhood or what your record is generally of being "about it."

Rather, you are being called out for making a disrespectful comparison between a voluntary activity (school prayer) and people's innate and people's deeply held attractions and feelings (sexuality/sexual orientation). People who live in your ward and all over New Haven. To compound the problem, your remark was about a group of people (the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community), who are more or less marginalized in our society. So, your comment poured salt in that wound.

Your comment showed that you don't have a fantastic grasp on diversity issues or how to communicate about them in a respectful, appropriate way. That's why people are upset. Regardless of your personal feelings or values regarding sexual orientation (which you also failed to clarify despite all the comments in the thread suggesting you do so), you need to figure out how you deal with being a representative in a community and a city that has a lot of diversity--racial, socio-economic, ethnic, religious, cultural and, yes, sexual orientation and gender identity.

Posted by: James | June 11, 2008 10:44 AM

While well said, Sally, I think that most of us are a bit more upset about the whole state-sponsored religion angle. Not that I don't think that Greg's choice in metaphor was ill-chosen.

Greg, for the record you've chosen to concentrate on one comment about you not attending a Science Park meeting. That was one comment. Move on.

As for what you have done and continue to do, I think most of us appreciate you for it. Many have said good things about you before stating that they disagree. I think what most people are looking for is something in the way of acknowledging that it is a divisive issue and that you understand that it is presently unconstitutional to pass legislation such as the kind you say you support. Legislators not understanding or selectively ignoring the parts of the constitution that they do not like is scary to most of us.

I don't think too many people here fail to understand or appreciate why you think prayer in school is a good idea. We all want solutions. And many, many people have stated that they respect your right to believe as you believe but respectfully disagree. Most have wished to point out that it's unconstitutional and leave it at that. But at no point have you said to those who disagree with you, "OK, I see your point and I know where you're coming from. Your heart is in the right place." You've simply failed to be anywhere near as respectful of the views of others as you insist others be of your views.

Here are some hints on how you could have handled this matter in an adult and professional manner;

1). Recognize other people's right to disagree with you

2). Recognize that your way is not the only way and remain open to discussion

3). Indicate that these are your personal beliefs and promise not to pursue this cause to the detriment of your official duties

4). Promise not to use the influence of your office to promote religion, because that would be unconstitutional

And then you're done. You don't look like a jerk who ignores the concerns of others and you don't appear to be ignorant of the Constitution. You can whine all you want about people "bashing" you, but you're focusing on a minority and chosen not to actually address any of the legitimate issues raised. Be the bigger man, ignore the noise, and address the issues.

Posted by: Alderman Greg Morehead | June 11, 2008 11:12 AM

Ok, I know that i said my prior post was the last, but I had to make one last comment about Ms. Sally Tamarkin's statement..
She Wrote--
Your comment showed that you don't have a fantastic grasp on diversity issues or how to communicate about them in a respectful, appropriate way. That's why people are upset. Regardless of your personal feelings or values regarding sexual orientation (which you also failed to clarify despite all the comments in the thread suggesting you do so), you need to figure out how you deal with being a representative in a community and a city that has a lot of diversity--racial, socio-economic, ethnic, religious, cultural and, yes, sexual orientation and gender identity.

--
This is what I am talking about again. First off, when I spoke to Andrew Mangino about this article, some of the things that I said to him, I was misquoted in this article. If there was something that I supposedly dug myself deeper with and you needed clarification, why didn't you ask me for clarification on my comments or call me?
When it comes to Ward 22, the Ward is VERY diverse. I deal with on a daily basis residents that are from different religions, backgrounds, different genders and yes, those that have different sexual preferences. In my dealings, I DO NOT treat anyone different or try and make them believe what I do. I have NEVER done that.
When the article came out about school prayer, I expressed my opinion with the comments on the previous article just like others have expressed theirs. Whether it be that I am Alderman or not, I still can express my beliefs. There is nothing wrong with that!! If there is an issue that I feel strongly about, I will not sit back and not express how I feel, regardless of the title that I hold. The people that write comments don't hold back on their comments or something that they fell strongly about, but they just use fictitous names. If I would've used a fictitous name rather than my real name, would we still be going back and forth? NO! I would be just like everyone else reposnding to articles in the NHI. When someone stands up for what he believes and uses his or her real name, people bash us! Like I said before, bashing me and talking negative about me and calling me names, is like water under the bridge, it DOES NOT affect me.
The first article came out last Monday June 2, 2008 and then my article came out this past Friday, June 6. The negative comments have NOT stopped. Who is getting anything out out this?
I know, there are those that don't want to see change come about, thats why they leave negative comments like they do.
I think readers and those commenting are afraid that something like this can come back in schools. Just think, there was controversy about the Elm City resident card and now that has made national headlines. People also talked about that.
Thats it!

At the end of the day, I know who I am, I get along with EVERYONE regardless of their background, and the NHI negative posts/comments from readers don't affect me.

Don't talk about it, be about it!

Regards,
Alderman Greg Morehead
www.ward22newhaven.com

Posted by: THREEFIFTHS | June 11, 2008 11:42 AM

Hey Alderman morehead i bet you would take the votes from the gay and lesbian community,So i agree with james and sally that people are talking about pray in school which is illegal under the constitution!!! So what you take kids on trips,Big deal,How come you never challenge king John,Did you speak out on good old rev.kimber geting his car off the hook,Give me a break you are just like the rest selling snakeoil and politricks.

Posted by: nina | June 11, 2008 12:53 PM

to the alderman:
you said:
"What are you doing individually to bring about a change to your community?
Everyone on here talks a good game, but what are you really doing for the community in which you live?"
wow! i think its great to try to engage people to do more in their community and even challenge them to do so...in a positive way. you sound like you are trying to simply disparage.

"I don't feel the need to post something or try to defend my cause. I said what i had to say and i don't have to keep going back and forth with people that will only speak negative or downplay my opinions. "
if you are an alderman you are supposed to represent. you actually DO have to defend your cause. if it has any salt, you should be able to defend it. even if it doesn't your attitude is sure to win enemies, not supporters.

Finally, when you say "Don't talk about, be about it," I have to point out the hipocrasy in your statement. be about what? you seem to think that character and what you put out in the world is much less important than small niceites. example: your comment from a yale daily news article about ludacris and he said "hi" to you. so what? does that undo all the negative he has put out in the world (not only him, of course, but he is part of what i would call the commodification and consumption of ignorance movement). i am looking at this from a psycho-social point of view. if you are so religious, however, i would think you would be opposed to him simply for his vulgar disrespect of women or salacious attitude towards women and sex....but you are not.

Posted by: Sally Tamarkin | June 11, 2008 2:47 PM

James, You're right. I didn't mean to downplay that the school prayer issue. Originally I mentioned that in my comment and ending up cutting it out because it was getting long and rambly, but I didn't mean to discount that important point. Thank you for pointing it out because I don't want the importance of the school prayer debate it to get lost in the fray.

Alderman Morehead,
You are now saying that you were misquoted, which is different than your original clarification. I don't want to go back and forth with you about what you really said or didn't say or whether or not you are allowed to have personal beliefs.

I doubt anyone would argue with the fact that we are all entitled to our own opinions. My point was merely that as an elected official who represents a diversity of consituents (as you pointed out), it might be appropriate for you to either: 1. Have or display an understanding of diversity by not making statements that are disrespectful or 2. When you do make these statements--whether or not you are speaking out of ignorance, or it was just a slip of the tongue, or if the statement did reflect your beliefs, or even if you were misquoted--saying something to the people that called you out here such as "I understand why this is offensive and I apologize for the remark. I look forward to learning more about these issues" OR "Unfortunately I was misquoted. I never said anything of the sort. I understand why this kind of comparison is unacceptable and I regret that it was attributed to me." or "This statement reflects my beliefs and opinions. I look forward to debating with those who might disagree and we can all learn from each other."

To my knowledge, you did none of those things. In fact, you attempted to further defend your original statement by explaining that you meant "parades and other events" and then defended your aldermanic record generally.

You're right, I didn't call you or email you, but I did address you in public in this thread, which you have been participating in. This amounts to following up with you on it.

You've said that you're leaving the thread so I assume that you won't see this most recent comment, but I wanted to respond in case you check back. I hope that at some point you can be less defensive about the criticisms I (and others, who didn't make snarky remarks but actually made well thought, calm comments) have made and take the time think about whether or not they hold water and if so, what your next steps might be as an alderperson.

Posted by: Cathy Stewart | June 11, 2008 6:40 PM

Threefifths, james, nina and the rest of you guys that don't use your real names, you are a joke. If I were Alderman Morehead, I would NOT respond to any of you that don't put their real names. What do you have to hide? At least he has openly said that he would support something positive and used his name. So what if he is an Alderman and wants to state his opinions. You act like the President of the US reads this NHI and will enact everything a politician says. What are you scared of? If you can't post something meaningful and use your real name, then SHUT UP! Do you think that your posts hold water if you can't state your name? You guys are funny on here. Go Alderman Go. I like his style and I wished I lived in his Ward, at least he cares about issues and is willing to put his name on the line for what he believes in. I can't say the same about the rest of you COWARDS!
I read a post also about the guy that said, the reason that he doesn't use his name is because he doesn't want his job to find out. Well, what do you have to hide? Is the NHI really that serious?? Will we make headlines due to your comments? NO. Come on!

With you Nina, what area are you from? Obviously you don't want change or even try to bring about change just from the negativity you have sayed to Mr Morehead. When it comes to issues like this, I have to give it to Alderman Morehead for even standing up to an issue like this. Why aren't the other so-called Alderpeople not addressing this issue or his so called friends not getting behind him. Probably because they would have something to lose if it gets back to King John that they put their name on something like this.
3fifths, what the heck is selling snake oil and pollitricks? If he was like the rest of them, he would not be posting and putting himself out there on this contraversial issue. Give me a break, use your real name and then talk. You and the rest of your cowards comments ain't worth THREEFIFTHS!

Cathy Stewart

Posted by: THREEFIFTHS | June 12, 2008 9:41 AM

Cathy Stewart
Who are you or Morehead to say that someone name is not real,How do we know if your name or anyone that post on this sites name is real.So until you can prove that this is not our real names you need shut up until you can prove other wise and stick to the issue and that is should there be pray in school and not if people who post names are real or not!!!! Second you said what the hell is selling snakeoil and pollitricks,This is what politics is about selling the people out,Wolf in sheeps clothing,Charlatans even you said that you wish that you lived in his ward what is wrong with
your Alderperson. You said that he is putting himself out there on this contraversial issue B.S!!!!! He knows that this so call contraversial issue is not going anywhere due to the fact that it is unconstitutional,You should ask the question
did alderman morehead ask the new haven city attorneys for input on this issue? I bet he did not because they would have told him issue is moot.So all he is doing is running a three card monte on you. Last until you can show me proof what names are real or not you need to shut up or better just read the post with the names you feel are real!!!

Posted by: Qriver Res | June 12, 2008 7:20 PM

We come from a nation that has been built on the principles that "God Is" and seeking for prayer in our schools would be historically consistent.

Today, we are asking God to bless America. But, how can He bless a Nation that has departed so far from Him? Prior to September 11, He was not welcome in America. Most of what you read in this article has been erased from our textbooks. Revisionists have rewritten history to remove the truth about our country's Christian roots.

Bryant Gumbel recently interviewed Billy Graham's daughter regarding the events of 9/11.

Gumbel: "Why didn't God stop this or do something about this?"

Billy Graham's daughter: "For years we have told God we didn't want Him in our schools. We didn't want Him in our government and we didn't want Him in our finances and God was being a perfect gentleman in doing just what we asked Him to do. We need to make up our mind; do we want God or do we not want Him? We cannot just ask Him in when disaster strikes."

Bryant Gumbel was silent.

Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of "The Declaration of Independence" were orthodox, deeply committed, Christians? The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth, the God of scripture, and His personal intervention.

It is the same Congress that formed the American Bible Society, immediately after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of Scripture for the people of this nation.

Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution, is still remembered for his words, "Give me liberty or give me death"; but in current textbooks, the context of these words is omitted. Here is what he actually said:

"An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it Almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death."

These sentences have been erased from our textbooks. Was Patrick Henry a Christian? The following year, 1776, he wrote this:

"It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great Nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here."

Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote in the front of his well-worn Bible: "I am a real Christian, that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our creator." He was also the chairman of the American Bible Society, which he considered his highest and most important role.

On July 4, 1821, President Adams said, "The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: "It connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."

Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President of the United States reaffirmed this truth when he wrote, "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country."

In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The Congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools."

William Holmes McGuffey is the author of the McGuffey Reader, which was used for over 100 years in our public schools with over 125 million copies sold until it was stopped in 1963. President Lincoln called him the schoolmaster of the Nation." Listen to these words of Mr. McGuffey:

"The Christian religion is the religion of our country. From it are derived our nation, on the character of God, on the great moral Governor of the universe. On its doctrines are founded the peculiarities of our free Institutions. From no source has the author drawn more conspicuously than from the sacred Scriptures. From all these extracts from the Bible, I make no apology."

Of the first 108 universities founded in America, 106 were distinctly Christian, including the first, Harvard University, chartered in 1636. In the original Harvard Student Handbook, rule number 1 was that students seeking entrance must know Latin and Greek so that they could study the Scriptures: "Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies, is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life, John 17:3; and therefore to lay Jesus Christ as the only foundation for our children to follow the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."

James Madison, the primary author of the Constitution of the United States, said this: "We have staked the whole future of all our political constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."

Posted by: Ned | June 12, 2008 8:25 PM

Dear Ms. Stewart:

Can I assume from your post that you share Mr. Morehead's homophobic bigotry and his faith? Or are you only supporting his clearly unconstitutional attempt to use government to promote religion in public schools? Maybe Mr. Morehead is just looking to promote himself as a darling of the rightwing - apparently that worked for Clarence Thomas... Isn't that part of what politicians do - pander?

Look, if you can believe in fairytales, invisible sky gods and other make believe then it doesn't seem like too much of a stretch for you to believe that there are real, as opposed to imaginary, people behind each of these "fake" names.

In addition, as discrimination against sexual minorities is still legal in half of this country (and most of the rest of the world), it does seem prudent that people might not want to open themselves up to violence and discrimination which are seemingly overwhelmingly committed by "people of faith" against other people of different or no faith; hence, the "fake" names, but real concerns about government promoting superstition (even in its dilute, but no less toxic version as proposed).

Sincerely,

Jesus H. Christ and Givit A. Wrest

Posted by: cedarhillresident | June 13, 2008 12:05 AM

Ms.Stewart

Cedar Hill here....AKA Rebecca Turcio nothing to hide here most know who I am.
The reason the law was made to not have religion in schools was to protect children....children that do not have that same belief. To protect them from discrimination!! Should we take all discrimination laws off the books??? Religion has its place it is not in the schools.
Moorehead has lost my respect because despite his effort to save face on his bigoted comment, I have a hard time believing it.
And my little fraction.... I agree with you on this issue :)

Posted by: JMS | June 13, 2008 8:14 AM

Dear Ms. Stewart,

I use my (real) initials rather then my full name to keep safe and private from potential nut jobs . Who knows what kind of lunatics will read my comments... go buy a sniper rifle... send me a letter bomb... etc. After all... you don't read about radical athiest left wing zealots doing these things do you? No... it's only the misguided bible infused crazies that tend to get that bent out of shape and go on a violent bender.

Nothing personal... but I'll stick to using my initials.

JMS

Posted by: elmcityguy | June 13, 2008 9:48 AM

You want to be treated with respect? Stop forcing your beliefs on others. There is absolutely no respect in that. Until you show me respect, you get none. You show no respect for diversity, for the constitution, for other people's beliefs, for teachers for no one but yourselves and your dogma. You need to earn respect, not have it given to you because you have a cross around your neck.

Until you stop trying to force your beleifs on others, I'll give you a hint. Religion is for the weak, religion is a farce, there is no god, there is no devil, when you die, you decompose and worms eat you. There is no bright light, there are no angels, your sky pixie can't beat up the sky pixie at another church. Grow up, take your kids off the corners, spend some time with them and stop glorifying violence, THAT will help much more than begging the flying purple people eater for help.

You don't get my name, because religious zealots such as yourselves are INSANE. I've had my car vandalized by your types when my darwin fish was taken off, why in the world would I let you know how to find me? You already want to indoctinate my child into your world of fantasy, I'm keeping my family as far away from you nutters as possible. Take your book of lies and hatred back to your church, where the rest of the flock can baaaahhhh along like the sheep you are.

Open a book besides your bible, you'd understand that we have protection from bigots like yourselves, and all the hand waving and posturing by you igorant, weak minded people with holes in your lives that you fill with fairy tails won't change that.

Posted by: JMS | June 13, 2008 10:17 AM

Holy smokes ElmCityGuy that was awe inspiring and pretty darn entertaining to boot.

Thanks for saying everything I was thinking but was just too damn polite to say for myself.

That last post just made my day.

JMS

Posted by: Steve Ross | June 13, 2008 11:00 AM

Since I had responded on the original thread (using my name, as if that makes anything more or less legitimate), I've just been reading along as this second one has grown. Despite my position, I've been impressed with the conversation as a whole, and encouraged that civil discourse could occur given the nature of the topic. Lately, though, I've grown dismayed. This has just turned into another, tired, theists vs. atheists debate with people insulting each other's beliefs, pulling quotes from centuries-dead "forefathers" out of context, and generally inflaming more passions by bringing sexuality and constitutionality into the picture.

I don't mean to trivialize the importance of the latter two subjects; these are things that I'm passionate about myself, but look, the fact is that an alderman in our city, even in spite of his best intentions, seeks to offer legislation promoting what is tantamount to obligatory prayer in school. This is unacceptable.

Many of us are atheists. Many of us are monotheists. Many more fluctuate on a spectrum of belief and skepticism throughout their lives - this, I believe, is the essential nature of humanity. But to posit that crime would decrease if kids prayed in school is ludicrous; it is at best wishful-thinking, at worst, irresponsible and discriminatory. Whether some Eighteenth Century white lawyers parading around in powdered wigs believed in god or not is inconsequential; crime is the end result of desperation and/or callousness in our times, and these are the issues that need to be addressed with thoughtfulness, compassion, empiricism, and without appeals to indeterminate forces.

Posted by: THREEFIFTHS | June 13, 2008 11:41 AM

Qriver Res
You said that James Madison said govern ourselves
according to the moral principles of the ten commandments,If this is the case then the Founding
fathers broke two of the ten commandments, That is you shall not steal and you should not murder.All of these good old founding fathers stole land and murder in the name of god the people who was already here.These people had there own system of govern themselves and there own belief system in god.So those who they let live the christian religion and the bible was forced on them.Also we can not forget that these same old founding fathers that you speak highly of was slave masters and up held slavery and even on the plantation the african slaves was prohibit from practice there faith.Show me in the U.S. Constitution where is says the United States was founded as a nation based on the sovereign authority of god because I was told by a family member who is a constiution lawyer that this nation was founded as a secular government based on the authority of we the people,not a god, king
or dictator!!!Same with the declaration of independence where does it refer to christianity or jesus? How many times does the word god appear in the constitution?Did you forget the danbury letter that jefferson wrote,He also made it clear
that make no law respecting an establishment of religion.Did you see the notes from jefferson on the state of virginia where he said of this religion there is not one redeeming feature in our superstition of christianity.It has made one half the world fools and the other half hypocrites.Second james madison and jefferson was
like most of the founding father deist and freemason,Did you know that deist donot believe
in the virgin birth,divinity or the resurrection of jesus or the efficacy of pray,Did you know that jefferson had his own bible call the jefferson bible in which he eliminated all miracles attributed to jesus.Now for some history of where jesus and your bible came from,First you bible was copied from the egyptian book of the dead,The egyptian had something call the 42 principle of the maat your ten commandments came from the maat.Also the name jesus came from Heru.Feel free to look all of this up.Even out of egypt came the coptic church.All faiths can be traced back to egyptian.And last when you speak of the bible which one are you talking about there
are are many bibles.

Posted by: nina | June 13, 2008 1:07 PM

to cathy stewart.
i don't know why you assume my name is fake. i could understand if i signed my postings "twinkles" or something.... but anyway. while i am not in agreement with the alderman, i think i have brought up some very valid points and not been rude (not any name calling like 'COWARD' or similar) as well as pointed out some inconsistencies that beg clarification. they have gotten none.

Posted by: Edward_H | June 13, 2008 1:11 PM

Alderman Morehead

When the article came out about school prayer, I expressed my opinion with the comments on the previous article just like others have expressed theirs. Whether it be that I am Alderman or not, I still can express my beliefs. There is nothing wrong with that!! If there is an issue that I feel strongly about, I will not sit back and not express how I feel, regardless of the title that I hold.

Most here can respect your opinions and your desire to express your beliefs. It is your desire to legislate your beliefs into law and your uncanny ability to ignore the obvious constitutional issues that has caused most of the responses here.

The people that write comments don't hold back on their comments or something that they fell strongly about, but they just use fictitious names.

How does someone using a fictitious name invalidate their argument? How does using your given name strengthen your argument or dissipate the constitutional issues?

If I would've used a fictitious name rather than my real name, would we still be going back and forth? NO!

You obviously don't read the NHI on a regular basis if you think that posting under a fictious name would have spared you any "back and forth". You could have called yourself "Anon Alderman" and you would have gotten the same intense responses. It is not your name that has stirred up debate , it is your position as an Alderman and your suggestion that you will use this position, influence and power to propose legislation for school prayer.

On your own website you suggest constituents can remain anonymous when informing you of issues.

http://www.ward22newhaven.com/news.htm

Why encourage anonymity for your constituents but berate those who disagree with you anonymously?

When someone stands up for what he believes and uses his or her real name, people bash us!

Read the NHI more often and you will see you are absolutely incorrect, people for the most part are "bashing" the issue and your idea of legislating school prayer. Even the person who called you a "thug" backed up his/her reasoning with logical reasoning for use of this term.

Think about this.. What are you doing individually to bring about a change to your community?

How is this revelant to anything at hand? What's next ? Are you going to say the posters here should run for office or call us racists?

Or, are you about stopping something positive that someone else tries to do because it isn't you that thought of it?

Part of the problem is school prayer is not something that has not been thought of before. There is 40 plus year of Supreme Court rulings on this issue. If you have some way of circumventing the constitution please let us know.

Posted by: nina | June 13, 2008 1:21 PM

to qriverres

"We come from a nation that has been built on the principles that "God Is" and seeking for prayer in our schools would be historically consistent."

we come from a nation that has used god to as a justification for superiority, oppression, slavery, etc. but aside from that there is the constitution, aside from that there is the fact that a prayer or affirmation unattached to any real discussion or education about it, is nothing but an abstraction and will do nothing but instill a new drill exercise for kids. so, if the idea behind this was to enlighten children through the recitation of a little prayer, it really won't work. however, you are making the impression that it is to make god happy???

Posted by: THREEFIFTHS | June 13, 2008 5:02 PM

Hey alderman morehead i was looking at some of your pictures on your website,I like bobby valentino tattoos and even you have one,But tell me this how come leviticus 19:28 says you shall not make any cuts in your body for the dead nor make any tattoo marks on youselves.Maybe you band needs some pray!!!

Posted by: Ian | June 13, 2008 6:32 PM

Friends,

If there are any questions regarding the existence of God, please read the stories on this site.

http://www.insightsofgod.com

The question is not is there even a God that exists, but, how will prayer impact the quality of education for our children. I happen to believe that prayer is by nature an act of humility, which will instill a sense of humility and respect for authority in children. Though, we are all responsible for raising our children and I wouldn't want my children taught that they're great grandparents were puddle scum any more than I'm sure that the atheists would want want their children to learn that God wants to prove his love for us by answering prayer.

Posted by: JMS | June 13, 2008 11:59 PM

Ian,

Aaaah... now I see the light. The fact that there is a really real website on the really real internet PROVES the existance of god is really really real. Now I get it. Thanks for clearing that up.

sat·ire (noun) Pronunciation [sat-ahyuhr]

1. the use of irony, sarcasm, ridicule, or the like, in exposing, denouncing, or deriding vice, folly, etc.
2. a literary composition, in verse or prose, in which human folly and vice are held up to scorn, derision, or ridicule.
3. a literary genre comprising such compositions.

[Origin: 1500-10;

Synonyms 1. See irony1. 2, 3. burlesque, caricature, parody, travesty. Satire, lampoon refer to literary forms in which vices or follies are ridiculed. Satire, the general term, often emphasizes the weakness more than the weak person, and usually implies moral judgment and corrective purpose: Swift's satire of human pettiness and bestiality. Lampoon refers to a form of satire, often political or personal, characterized by the malice or virulence of its attack: lampoons of the leading political figures.

JMS

Posted by: JMS | June 14, 2008 12:28 PM

Ian,

Here is a link for you. Because remember... if it's on the internet it must be true.

http://www.apple.com/trailers/lions_gate/religulous/

I cannot wait to see this film when it comes out. It looks hilarious.

JMS

Posted by: JMS | June 15, 2008 12:46 AM

Ian,

One more for you.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5019012898998976931&q=Cheesus&ei=NJ5USIeOFJzaqALx3NDgDg

C'mon now... that's funny.

JMS

Posted by: Ian | June 15, 2008 7:41 PM

JMS - Ok, That was funny, and would make a dang good communion wafer...

Seeing how we've totally diverged, here is my rebuttal.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5590240559289557190&q=akiane+akiane&ei=86ZVSIanLI_UqAL067XuDg

-Ian

Posted by: Ned | June 16, 2008 7:38 AM

Here's one for you:
Radar Quiz - Rapper or Holy Roller?

Posted by: JMS | June 16, 2008 7:07 PM

Ian,

That girl can sure paint. But I think she may be confused because the god she paints seems to look an awful lot like Lindsey Buckingham.

http://www.fleetwoodmac-uk.com/articles/Images/gwa_03-2003/gwa_picture2.jpg

Ned,

I only got one out of ten questions right on that quiz. But I did enjoy it. Thanks for the link... I'll pass it around.

JMS

Posted by: JMS | June 17, 2008 11:35 AM

Ian,

One more (Doug Henning)...

http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/3207284.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=C037F202D99E3099AD845DC94ECF8E57A55A1E4F32AD3138

...sorry I just couldn't resist. You are a good sport. It's nice to find a zealot with a sense of humor.

(Kidding)

JMS

Posted by: Ian | June 18, 2008 12:16 PM

JMS - Well, I believe God is humorous...

http://www.sidroth.org/site/News2?abbr=tv_&page=NewsArticle&id=7403&security=1041&news_iv_ctrl=-1