Christmas News: Events and Commentary on the 'Christmas Wars'
Conservative evangelical Christians are becoming increasingly upset that Christmas in modern America is more secular than religious. They blame liberals and atheists for this development, despite the fact that it's more a product of commercialization and culture - and it's been going on for more than a hundred years.
No Godless Conspiracy Against Christmas: Atheists Are Not Undermining Christmas
Every year we hear more and more about the so-called Christmas Wars. According to its promoters and alleged 'defenders' of Christmas, the godless liberals and atheists are trying to undermine wholesome Christmas traditions as part of their agenda of undermining Christianity. For these people, this is less about Christmas than it is about cultural dominance: they think they should have the authority to determine how Christmas is celebrated and what status it has in American society.
Every year we hear more and more about the so-called Christmas Wars. According to its promoters and alleged 'defenders' of Christmas, the godless liberals and atheists are trying to undermine wholesome Christmas traditions as part of their agenda of undermining Christianity. For these people, this is less about Christmas than it is about cultural dominance: they think they should have the authority to determine how Christmas is celebrated and what status it has in American society.
Secular Santa Claus is Coming to Town: What's so Christian about Santa Claus?
Christians treat Christmas as a Christian holiday, and it certainly started out that way, but we can tell a lot about the real nature of holidays by how they are represented in popular culture. The most common, popular, and recognized symbol for Christmas today isn't an infant Jesus or even a manger scene, but Santa Claus. It's Santa who graces all the ads and decorations, not Jesus. Santa Claus is not, however, a religious figure or symbol.
Christians treat Christmas as a Christian holiday, and it certainly started out that way, but we can tell a lot about the real nature of holidays by how they are represented in popular culture. The most common, popular, and recognized symbol for Christmas today isn't an infant Jesus or even a manger scene, but Santa Claus. It's Santa who graces all the ads and decorations, not Jesus. Santa Claus is not, however, a religious figure or symbol.
Wal-Mart Caves to Christian Nationalists, Dumps 'Happy Holidays'
During the 2005 Christmas season, Wal-Mart came under a lot of fire from Christian Nationalists who were upset about the retailer's use of "Happy Holidays" rather than "Merry Christmas." You see, it doesn't matter that there are multiple holidays and multiple religions celebrating at this time of year; what matters is that they need Wal-Mart to validate their holiday in order to be happy.
During the 2005 Christmas season, Wal-Mart came under a lot of fire from Christian Nationalists who were upset about the retailer's use of "Happy Holidays" rather than "Merry Christmas." You see, it doesn't matter that there are multiple holidays and multiple religions celebrating at this time of year; what matters is that they need Wal-Mart to validate their holiday in order to be happy.
Well, I Didn't Expect the Catholic League Inquisition...
When I started making various propaganda posters, I knew that some would get "out in the wild," disconnected from the text which explains what I am trying to say and do. This, in turn, would probably lead to some people assuming that the posters are genuine rather than satire. I can't prevent that. Less understandable, though, is someone ignoring the satire when they can read the text.
When I started making various propaganda posters, I knew that some would get "out in the wild," disconnected from the text which explains what I am trying to say and do. This, in turn, would probably lead to some people assuming that the posters are genuine rather than satire. I can't prevent that. Less understandable, though, is someone ignoring the satire when they can read the text.
Opponents of Anti-Christian ACLU Say: Make Creche Secular
A few days ago I wrote about the debate over a creche display in Berkely, Michigan. Defenders of the display claim that the ACLU is wrong and that the Nativity scene is completely constitutional. For some reason, though, they are now saying that the creche scene should be made secular. Huh? How can defenders of a religious display want it transformed into a secular display?
A few days ago I wrote about the debate over a creche display in Berkely, Michigan. Defenders of the display claim that the ACLU is wrong and that the Nativity scene is completely constitutional. For some reason, though, they are now saying that the creche scene should be made secular. Huh? How can defenders of a religious display want it transformed into a secular display?
War on Christmas Propaganda Posters
A popular cause for Christian Nationalists is the so-called War on Christmas. According to some conservative evangelical Christians, secularism and atheism in America are trying to destroy the essential Christian nature of the Christmas holiday season. In fact, the War on Christmas is perceived as just one front in a more general War on Christianity in America. The posters in this collection satirize the perceived War on Christmas by creating images of the rhetorical excess used by evangelicals.
A popular cause for Christian Nationalists is the so-called War on Christmas. According to some conservative evangelical Christians, secularism and atheism in America are trying to destroy the essential Christian nature of the Christmas holiday season. In fact, the War on Christmas is perceived as just one front in a more general War on Christianity in America. The posters in this collection satirize the perceived War on Christmas by creating images of the rhetorical excess used by evangelicals.
Christmas Wars Not Quite Over
Did you think that all the debates and complaints over Christmas were over for another year? Not quite! You may remember Christian Right leaders lying about a school secularizing the lyrics to Silent Night. This school caught a lot of grief over this and spent a lot of money defending themselves against the lies, so they are demanding an apology and reimbursement.
Did you think that all the debates and complaints over Christmas were over for another year? Not quite! You may remember Christian Right leaders lying about a school secularizing the lyrics to Silent Night. This school caught a lot of grief over this and spent a lot of money defending themselves against the lies, so they are demanding an apology and reimbursement.
John Gibson vs. Rob Boston: Unbalanced Fox & Christian Right
John Gibson has set himself up as a 'defender' of Christmas; his primary means of doing this seems to involve vicious attacks on everyone who doesn't agree with him. This lack of decency and character was on magnificent display recently when Rob Boston was a 'guest' on Gibson's Fox News program.
John Gibson has set himself up as a 'defender' of Christmas; his primary means of doing this seems to involve vicious attacks on everyone who doesn't agree with him. This lack of decency and character was on magnificent display recently when Rob Boston was a 'guest' on Gibson's Fox News program.
Satan Causing Christians to Bicker Over Christmas
There has been some debate in the Christian community over the fact that some mega-churches have decided to be closed on Christmas Day. It's a fair business decision, given the likely low attendance, but both the low attendance and the fact that it's a business decision reflect very poorly on those who keep insisting that Christmas is an important religious holiday.
There has been some debate in the Christian community over the fact that some mega-churches have decided to be closed on Christmas Day. It's a fair business decision, given the likely low attendance, but both the low attendance and the fact that it's a business decision reflect very poorly on those who keep insisting that Christmas is an important religious holiday.
Conservative Christians Angry that Their Religion No Longer Preeminent
Why are some Christians so upset over the present state of Christmas? More people in America celebrate Christmas in some manner than ever before, or than in any other nation. No one is trying to end Christmas as a holiday. The problem is that conservative Christians are unable to dominate the discourse over Christmas and determine how people celebrate it.
Why are some Christians so upset over the present state of Christmas? More people in America celebrate Christmas in some manner than ever before, or than in any other nation. No one is trying to end Christmas as a holiday. The problem is that conservative Christians are unable to dominate the discourse over Christmas and determine how people celebrate it.
War on Christmas? War on Goodwill & Tolerance
Conservative Christians decry a 'war on Christmas' that seeks to supplant a religious, Christian Christmas with a secular one - or no Christmas at all. Perhaps it would be more accurate to argue that the only 'war on Christmas' is one on the 'Christmas Spirit' being waged by conservative Christians themselves.
Conservative Christians decry a 'war on Christmas' that seeks to supplant a religious, Christian Christmas with a secular one - or no Christmas at all. Perhaps it would be more accurate to argue that the only 'war on Christmas' is one on the 'Christmas Spirit' being waged by conservative Christians themselves.
Should Satantic Christmas be Scrapped?
In Edinburgh, someone has set up a grotto where Satan takes the place of Santa. He questions children and seeks to track down Santa Claus in order to return him to his place in hell. Some religious leaders in the city, though, are not pleased and would like to have the attraction shut down.
In Edinburgh, someone has set up a grotto where Satan takes the place of Santa. He questions children and seeks to track down Santa Claus in order to return him to his place in hell. Some religious leaders in the city, though, are not pleased and would like to have the attraction shut down.
Fighting Atheists' War on Advent
As I have written elsewhere, Christmas isn't the only Christian celebration that has lost much of its religious aura over the years. Most celebrations, though, have simply been dropped entirely and aren't even referenced anymore. Some Christians are trying to reverse this trend, thus leading us naturally to attacks on the "War on Advent."
As I have written elsewhere, Christmas isn't the only Christian celebration that has lost much of its religious aura over the years. Most celebrations, though, have simply been dropped entirely and aren't even referenced anymore. Some Christians are trying to reverse this trend, thus leading us naturally to attacks on the "War on Advent."
Secular Christmas in Japan
Conservative Christians in America insist that Christmas is necessarily a religious, Christian holiday. Even when they don't use such words, they communicate this message when they make noises about the 'true meaning' of Christmas and how it has to be 'preserved' in the face of secularism. How, then, do the Japanese manage to celebrate Christmas?
Conservative Christians in America insist that Christmas is necessarily a religious, Christian holiday. Even when they don't use such words, they communicate this message when they make noises about the 'true meaning' of Christmas and how it has to be 'preserved' in the face of secularism. How, then, do the Japanese manage to celebrate Christmas?
Operation Nativity vs. Secularization of Christmas
A new twist in Christians' pretending to 'defend' Christmas is called Operation Nativity: Christians are campaigning to have other Christians erect nativity scenes in their front yards this Christmas season. They imagine that by doing so they will be striking a blow against evil secularists and leftists trying to undermine Christians. What buffoons...
A new twist in Christians' pretending to 'defend' Christmas is called Operation Nativity: Christians are campaigning to have other Christians erect nativity scenes in their front yards this Christmas season. They imagine that by doing so they will be striking a blow against evil secularists and leftists trying to undermine Christians. What buffoons...
War on Christmas at Retail Prices: Materialism, Free Markets, Holidays
Christians who complain about there being a 'war' on Christmas almost invariably pick the wrong targets to complain about. They whine incessantly about secularists and leftists, but never seem to notice the actions of businesses and corporations. Indeed, they expect these businesses to be their allies and saviors.
Christians who complain about there being a 'war' on Christmas almost invariably pick the wrong targets to complain about. They whine incessantly about secularists and leftists, but never seem to notice the actions of businesses and corporations. Indeed, they expect these businesses to be their allies and saviors.
Congressional Vote on Protecting Christmas
Conservative Christians in Congress have launched a new effort to defend Christmas. Because Christmas is being 'attacked,' Congress has voted for a resolution to protect the symbols of Christmas. A request to protect the symbols of other holidays, like Chanukah, was denied.
Conservative Christians in Congress have launched a new effort to defend Christmas. Because Christmas is being 'attacked,' Congress has voted for a resolution to protect the symbols of Christmas. A request to protect the symbols of other holidays, like Chanukah, was denied.
Better a Commercial Christmas than a Secular Holiday?
Conservative Christians complain loudly about how Christianity and Christmas aren't always treated as special this time of year. They don't want to hear about 'holidays' in general, only their own particular holiday. In fact, their self-esteem is so low at this point that they would even prefer a commercialized Christmas lacking religious content than any kind of generic holiday greeting.
Conservative Christians complain loudly about how Christianity and Christmas aren't always treated as special this time of year. They don't want to hear about 'holidays' in general, only their own particular holiday. In fact, their self-esteem is so low at this point that they would even prefer a commercialized Christmas lacking religious content than any kind of generic holiday greeting.
Secularized Lyrics for 'Silent Night'? No, Disinformation...
Have you heard about the school that re-wrote the lyrics to the song Silent Night in order to avoid violating the separation of church and state? If so, you were the victim of a disinformation campaign of lies from the Christian Right. The facts of the case are far different from what the Christian Right reported. Is anyone surprised?
Have you heard about the school that re-wrote the lyrics to the song Silent Night in order to avoid violating the separation of church and state? If so, you were the victim of a disinformation campaign of lies from the Christian Right. The facts of the case are far different from what the Christian Right reported. Is anyone surprised?
War Over Christmas About Power and Control
Why is the Christian Right so fired up about waging a war to defend Christmas? As I've written elsewhere, it's part of a larger effort to defend and expand traditional Christian privilege in American society. Another way to look at it is to describe this as an effort to exercise greater power and control over the holiday itself.
Why is the Christian Right so fired up about waging a war to defend Christmas? As I've written elsewhere, it's part of a larger effort to defend and expand traditional Christian privilege in American society. Another way to look at it is to describe this as an effort to exercise greater power and control over the holiday itself.
Religious Bigots Offended by Free Speech at Christmas
Every year in the Wisconsin State Capitol, the Freedom From Religion Foundation puts up a sign saying 'At this season of the Winter Solstice may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.' Religious conservatives are very upset.
Every year in the Wisconsin State Capitol, the Freedom From Religion Foundation puts up a sign saying 'At this season of the Winter Solstice may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.' Religious conservatives are very upset.
Christmas Smackdown: Christian Right vs. Corporate Right
An important target of the Christian Right's defense of Christmas are corporations which don't do enough to emphasize Christmas over all other holidays. These same corporations, however, are often heavy GOP donors. Is this why the Christian Right blames leftists for the actions of corporations, in order to deflect attention from what's really going on?
An important target of the Christian Right's defense of Christmas are corporations which don't do enough to emphasize Christmas over all other holidays. These same corporations, however, are often heavy GOP donors. Is this why the Christian Right blames leftists for the actions of corporations, in order to deflect attention from what's really going on?
Pat Robertson: Kwanzaa Threatens True Meaning of Christmas
All sorts of targets have been singled out by conservative Christians in their effort to 'defend' Christmas. They can't avoid the fact, though, that multiple holidays are celebrated this time of year and that this is a good reason to say 'Happy Holidays.' Perhaps that is why some are now trying to attack those holidays and have them considered invalid in comparison to Christmas?
All sorts of targets have been singled out by conservative Christians in their effort to 'defend' Christmas. They can't avoid the fact, though, that multiple holidays are celebrated this time of year and that this is a good reason to say 'Happy Holidays.' Perhaps that is why some are now trying to attack those holidays and have them considered invalid in comparison to Christmas?
News from the UK Front in the Christmas Wars
America isn't the only place where Christmas Wars are being waged, it seems. At the Grimsdyke First and Middle School, a Christianity-specific play has been cancelled in favor of a more general 'seasonal celebration of four faiths.' Christians, it seems, don't want to be simply one of four faiths - they want special recognition.
America isn't the only place where Christmas Wars are being waged, it seems. At the Grimsdyke First and Middle School, a Christianity-specific play has been cancelled in favor of a more general 'seasonal celebration of four faiths.' Christians, it seems, don't want to be simply one of four faiths - they want special recognition.
To Hell with the Word Holiday, put Christ back into Christmas
In Tampa Bay, Florida, Senior Pastor Randy White of the Without Walls International Church has erected a sign declaring "To Hell with the word Holiday, put Christ back into Christmas." Some people who see the sign approve of the message; others find it offensive. I'd like to know why White doesn't celebrate any holidays - or holy-days - this time of year.
In Tampa Bay, Florida, Senior Pastor Randy White of the Without Walls International Church has erected a sign declaring "To Hell with the word Holiday, put Christ back into Christmas." Some people who see the sign approve of the message; others find it offensive. I'd like to know why White doesn't celebrate any holidays - or holy-days - this time of year.
Priest Refuses to Say Generic Prayer, Politician Apologizes for Object
In Manhasset, New York, Catholic priest Nick Zientarski agreed to deliver a generic prayer at the lighting of a town Christmas tree. He then decided to deliver a sectarian prayer without telling anyone, though. North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman objected as Zientarski spoke, and now Kaiman is being forced to apologize - not Zientarski.
In Manhasset, New York, Catholic priest Nick Zientarski agreed to deliver a generic prayer at the lighting of a town Christmas tree. He then decided to deliver a sectarian prayer without telling anyone, though. North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman objected as Zientarski spoke, and now Kaiman is being forced to apologize - not Zientarski.
Deus Sol Invictus is the Reason for the Season
Christians like to argue that Jesus is the Reason for the Season, but they ignore the fact that the dating of Christmas has nothing to do with Jesus might have been born and everything to do with popular pagan holidays in ancient Rome. Jesus isn't the reason why we celebrate holidays this time of year and Christianity is irrelevant.
Christians like to argue that Jesus is the Reason for the Season, but they ignore the fact that the dating of Christmas has nothing to do with Jesus might have been born and everything to do with popular pagan holidays in ancient Rome. Jesus isn't the reason why we celebrate holidays this time of year and Christianity is irrelevant.
Matthew vs. Luke: Disentangling the Gospel Contradictions
December is a time of the year when many people think about the nativity stories about Jesus - but do they think very closely and carefully? If they do, they will notice that only two of the four gospels say anything about the nativity (odd, if it's really important) and those two accounts are very different. The popular nativity scenes most people think of are a blend of the two gospel stories.
December is a time of the year when many people think about the nativity stories about Jesus - but do they think very closely and carefully? If they do, they will notice that only two of the four gospels say anything about the nativity (odd, if it's really important) and those two accounts are very different. The popular nativity scenes most people think of are a blend of the two gospel stories.
Christmas Trees or Holiday Trees?
One subject of controversy in the so-called Christmas Wars has been whether to rename Christmas Trees to Holiday Trees. Those seeking to be sensitive to a religiously pluralistic society have tried to start using Holiday Trees, but those who see changes as a sign of hostility towards Christianity have reacted negatively - as if there was anything 'Christian' about the trees in the first place.
One subject of controversy in the so-called Christmas Wars has been whether to rename Christmas Trees to Holiday Trees. Those seeking to be sensitive to a religiously pluralistic society have tried to start using Holiday Trees, but those who see changes as a sign of hostility towards Christianity have reacted negatively - as if there was anything 'Christian' about the trees in the first place.
Compromise Between Holiday Season and Christmas Season?
Religious conservatives insist that secularists and atheists are trying to undermine Christmas and Christianity. Everyone else insists that because America is more religiously pluralistic and has several holidays this time of year, it only makes sense to try to be more inclusive. Can this debate go on like this indefinitely, or is it possible to reach a compromise?
Religious conservatives insist that secularists and atheists are trying to undermine Christmas and Christianity. Everyone else insists that because America is more religiously pluralistic and has several holidays this time of year, it only makes sense to try to be more inclusive. Can this debate go on like this indefinitely, or is it possible to reach a compromise?
Capitalism: the Enemy of Christmas
By and large, the whole notion about a 'war' being waged against Christmas is utter nonsense. It's mostly just the hallucinations of a few deranged individuals. There is, however, a narrow argument that can be made for the idea that traditional religious aspects of Christmas are being undermined... by American capitalism.
By and large, the whole notion about a 'war' being waged against Christmas is utter nonsense. It's mostly just the hallucinations of a few deranged individuals. There is, however, a narrow argument that can be made for the idea that traditional religious aspects of Christmas are being undermined... by American capitalism.
Anti-Semitic Defense of Christmas: Christian Privilege & Supremacism
Is there an anti-semitic element to the Christian Right's 'defense' of Christmas? It's certainly plausible, given how Jews are so often the target of Christian frustrations throughout history. Jews always seem to be behind efforts to undermine Christianity and replace it with some sort of secular, socialist, or otherwise immoral system.
Is there an anti-semitic element to the Christian Right's 'defense' of Christmas? It's certainly plausible, given how Jews are so often the target of Christian frustrations throughout history. Jews always seem to be behind efforts to undermine Christianity and replace it with some sort of secular, socialist, or otherwise immoral system.
How Christians Stole Christmas
Conservative Christians complain about secularists, atheists, and leftists trying to undermine Christmas, but there is little historical understanding and awareness in these complaints. An examination of Christian history indicates that religion has been slowly stripped from Christmas, as well as other Christian holidays, for a long time now - and by Christians themselves.
Conservative Christians complain about secularists, atheists, and leftists trying to undermine Christmas, but there is little historical understanding and awareness in these complaints. An examination of Christian history indicates that religion has been slowly stripped from Christmas, as well as other Christian holidays, for a long time now - and by Christians themselves.
President Bush's War on Christmas
Religious conservatives are reportedly reeling from a 'stab in the back' from the White House in the War on Christmas. Conservatives have been fighting hard to oppose generic 'holiday' greetings in favor of the narrower 'Merry Christmas' greeting, regardless of the religion one is speaking to. Bush, however, has opted for the former in official holiday greeting cards.
Religious conservatives are reportedly reeling from a 'stab in the back' from the White House in the War on Christmas. Conservatives have been fighting hard to oppose generic 'holiday' greetings in favor of the narrower 'Merry Christmas' greeting, regardless of the religion one is speaking to. Bush, however, has opted for the former in official holiday greeting cards.
Bill O'Reilly Promises to Bring Horror to Christmas' Enemies
Always the devout foot soldier in defense of a traditional Christmas created in the 19th century out of fiction and wishful thinking, Bill O'Reilly has decided to place himself personally in the line of fire. Not one to fear the slings and arrows of evil secularists, O'Reilly is promising to visit his own wrath and retribution on those who stand in his way.
Always the devout foot soldier in defense of a traditional Christmas created in the 19th century out of fiction and wishful thinking, Bill O'Reilly has decided to place himself personally in the line of fire. Not one to fear the slings and arrows of evil secularists, O'Reilly is promising to visit his own wrath and retribution on those who stand in his way.
Atheists at Christmas: Should Atheists and Humanists Reject Christmas?
Because American culture has been dominated for so long by Christianity and Christian traditions, Christmas is celebrated widely even by non-Christians. Indeed, it's getting to the point where Christmas is becoming less Christian in nature every year. Nevertheless, many non-Christians continue to perceive the day as fundamentally Christian and so don't want to celebrate it.
Because American culture has been dominated for so long by Christianity and Christian traditions, Christmas is celebrated widely even by non-Christians. Indeed, it's getting to the point where Christmas is becoming less Christian in nature every year. Nevertheless, many non-Christians continue to perceive the day as fundamentally Christian and so don't want to celebrate it.
Atheists Attacking Christmas?
Christians complaining about the state of Christmas in contemporary America have sought far and wide for an enemy they can blame for what they perceive as attacks on their holiday. Usually they simply blame leftists, the ACLU, and secularists - but sometimes they go after atheists, too.
Christians complaining about the state of Christmas in contemporary America have sought far and wide for an enemy they can blame for what they perceive as attacks on their holiday. Usually they simply blame leftists, the ACLU, and secularists - but sometimes they go after atheists, too.
Christmas Under Fire - Whine, Whine, Whine
Perhaps the most common characteristic of various Christian complaints about so-called 'attacks' on Christmas is that they are so whiney. Almost every single one appears to have been written by someone buoyed by the sense that they and their religion are due far more deference and reverence than American culture is willing to show. Their solution: to whine until they get their way.
Perhaps the most common characteristic of various Christian complaints about so-called 'attacks' on Christmas is that they are so whiney. Almost every single one appears to have been written by someone buoyed by the sense that they and their religion are due far more deference and reverence than American culture is willing to show. Their solution: to whine until they get their way.
Christian Conspiracy Theories and the War on Christmas
Many people feel that the defense being mounted by religious conservatives on behalf of Christmas is a new development. I certainly did, but it turns out that fears that there are dark, sinister forces seeking to destroy Christmas have a long pedigree and are simply another aspect of the conspiracy theories that right-wing Christians use to make themselves feel persecuted.
Many people feel that the defense being mounted by religious conservatives on behalf of Christmas is a new development. I certainly did, but it turns out that fears that there are dark, sinister forces seeking to destroy Christmas have a long pedigree and are simply another aspect of the conspiracy theories that right-wing Christians use to make themselves feel persecuted.
Friend or Foe-Foe-Foe: Christian Right Launching Christmas Offensive
The Christian Right has opened a new front in their defense against the imaginary attacks on Christmas: a 'Friend or Foe' campaign in which they will intimidate or threaten to sue all those deemed "foes" in their battle. Foes include, apparently, all those who spread misinformation about how Christmas can be celebrated in public. Wouldn't this include just about the entire Christian Right?
The Christian Right has opened a new front in their defense against the imaginary attacks on Christmas: a 'Friend or Foe' campaign in which they will intimidate or threaten to sue all those deemed "foes" in their battle. Foes include, apparently, all those who spread misinformation about how Christmas can be celebrated in public. Wouldn't this include just about the entire Christian Right?
Christmas Wars: Wal-Mart Caves in to Catholic League
Someone complained to Wal-Mart about practices like the use of Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. The emailed response described how many Christmas traditions originated with various ancient pagan cultures and that Wal-Mart wanted to honor all religious holidays of the season. The Catholic League threatened a boycott, so Wal-Mart fired the email's author and changed things.
Someone complained to Wal-Mart about practices like the use of Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. The emailed response described how many Christmas traditions originated with various ancient pagan cultures and that Wal-Mart wanted to honor all religious holidays of the season. The Catholic League threatened a boycott, so Wal-Mart fired the email's author and changed things.
Christmas Wars: When Christians Attack
Some Christians get upset when people say Happy Holidays as a general greeting instead of Merry Christmas. The latter assumes that whomever one is talking to celebrates Christmas rather than just generally wishes them well during the holiday season. Does the general assumption that, by default, everyone celebrates Christmas cause any harm? Yes.
Some Christians get upset when people say Happy Holidays as a general greeting instead of Merry Christmas. The latter assumes that whomever one is talking to celebrates Christmas rather than just generally wishes them well during the holiday season. Does the general assumption that, by default, everyone celebrates Christmas cause any harm? Yes.
War on Christmas Heating Up
I believe that 2004 was the first holiday season when conservatives seriously pushed the idea of Christmas Wars: conflicts between attitudes of inclusiveness and attitudes of Christian privilege, superiority, and victimization. According to conservatives, greetings like 'Happy Holidays' victimize Christians by not accepting their cultural superiority and not respecting their privileged status.
I believe that 2004 was the first holiday season when conservatives seriously pushed the idea of Christmas Wars: conflicts between attitudes of inclusiveness and attitudes of Christian privilege, superiority, and victimization. According to conservatives, greetings like 'Happy Holidays' victimize Christians by not accepting their cultural superiority and not respecting their privileged status.
Ann Coulter's Christmas Wish
Ann "We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity" Coulter continues to serve as an inspiration to conservatives all across America. She has unequivocally informed Muslims of the world that they would have been so much better off this past Christmas if they had only been Christians.
Ann "We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity" Coulter continues to serve as an inspiration to conservatives all across America. She has unequivocally informed Muslims of the world that they would have been so much better off this past Christmas if they had only been Christians.
We Wish You a Generic Christmas?
Over a period of many years Christmas has become less of a Christian-centric holiday and more of a generic cultural holiday. It is celebrated by many non-Christians in various ways and the religious connotations are lost even on some Christians themselves. This saddens and angers some devout Christians, but what can they do about it? Lash out at an "enemy" they can demonize.
Over a period of many years Christmas has become less of a Christian-centric holiday and more of a generic cultural holiday. It is celebrated by many non-Christians in various ways and the religious connotations are lost even on some Christians themselves. This saddens and angers some devout Christians, but what can they do about it? Lash out at an "enemy" they can demonize.
Removing Christmas from the Public Realm
Religious conservatives engaged in the new industry of "defending" Christmas can only do so by building up myths that are contrary to the facts of the real world. They must convince people that there is a conspiracy to attack Christmas, that Christmas is a necessarily religious holiday, and that defense of religious liberty means being hostile to Christianity (to name just a few).
Religious conservatives engaged in the new industry of "defending" Christmas can only do so by building up myths that are contrary to the facts of the real world. They must convince people that there is a conspiracy to attack Christmas, that Christmas is a necessarily religious holiday, and that defense of religious liberty means being hostile to Christianity (to name just a few).
Holiday Wishes from the Christian Right
Religious conservatives have complained about how the "true meaning" of Christmas has been subverted by godless liberals. It would be valid, then, to wonder just how these same conservatives have tried to exemplify or live up to Christmas' message and meaning
Religious conservatives have complained about how the "true meaning" of Christmas has been subverted by godless liberals. It would be valid, then, to wonder just how these same conservatives have tried to exemplify or live up to Christmas' message and meaning
'Happy Holidays' As Atheist Plot
Quite a few religious conservatives have acted as though there is some plot among atheists, liberals, and secularists to take Christ out of Christmas - indeed, to eliminate Christianity from the holiday season entirely. The truth, however, is that Christianity has been declining in importance for a while now.
Quite a few religious conservatives have acted as though there is some plot among atheists, liberals, and secularists to take Christ out of Christmas - indeed, to eliminate Christianity from the holiday season entirely. The truth, however, is that Christianity has been declining in importance for a while now.
Taking Back Christmas as Engineered Hate
What do you suppose is behind the recent campaign to "take back" Christmas from the "godless" hordes of liberals and secularists? It's an important question because we haven't seen this sort of movement during past holidays. Unless we understand it, we won't be able to properly deal with it.
What do you suppose is behind the recent campaign to "take back" Christmas from the "godless" hordes of liberals and secularists? It's an important question because we haven't seen this sort of movement during past holidays. Unless we understand it, we won't be able to properly deal with it.
Harry Potter is Improper Christmas Viewing?
On Christmas, the BBC aired the movie "Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone." Kids probably enjoyed it, but the Church of England didn't. According to the church's leadership, movies that deal with the supernatural are improper on such a day.
On Christmas, the BBC aired the movie "Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone." Kids probably enjoyed it, but the Church of England didn't. According to the church's leadership, movies that deal with the supernatural are improper on such a day.
Massachusetts: Nativity Scene Removed from Elementary School
In South Norwood, a nativity scene that has stood in front of the Balch Elementary School every Christmas for 75 years has been removed. The display gave preference to Christianity because no other displays were erected and that, obviously, is unacceptable.
In South Norwood, a nativity scene that has stood in front of the Balch Elementary School every Christmas for 75 years has been removed. The display gave preference to Christianity because no other displays were erected and that, obviously, is unacceptable.
Blogsnark: Getting Rid of Christmas
Is there a secularist conspiracy to get rid of Christmas? Some Christians seem to think so. They can't point to any examples of this occurring or the slightest bit of evidence to support their belief, but that doesn't stop them from believing it or trying to convince others that they are right. That's what it means to live by faith, I guess.
Is there a secularist conspiracy to get rid of Christmas? Some Christians seem to think so. They can't point to any examples of this occurring or the slightest bit of evidence to support their belief, but that doesn't stop them from believing it or trying to convince others that they are right. That's what it means to live by faith, I guess.
Blogsnark: Christmas Message from the ACLU
One of the curious facets of the contemporary "war" over Christmas is how religious conservatives keep blaming liberals and groups like the ACLU for all of the alleged "problems." They ignore the way the wider culture - especially capitalism - serve to undermine exclusivist religious messages.
One of the curious facets of the contemporary "war" over Christmas is how religious conservatives keep blaming liberals and groups like the ACLU for all of the alleged "problems." They ignore the way the wider culture - especially capitalism - serve to undermine exclusivist religious messages.
Christmas Wars as Tribal Conflict
Many have wondered why religious conservatives are making such a big deal about "Merry Christmas" this year. There have been complaints in the past about the lack of religion in the modern holiday, but why the insistence that nothing short of saying "Merry Christmas" is acceptable?
Many have wondered why religious conservatives are making such a big deal about "Merry Christmas" this year. There have been complaints in the past about the lack of religion in the modern holiday, but why the insistence that nothing short of saying "Merry Christmas" is acceptable?
Lou Dobbs: 'Happy Holidays' Excludes Christmas, Christians
Lou Dobbs has been known to take some very bizarre positions in the past but this time he has raised the bar. During a discussion with CNN business correspondent Christine Romans about the use of "Happy Holidays" at this time of year, he asserted that use of this phrase excludes Christians.
Lou Dobbs has been known to take some very bizarre positions in the past but this time he has raised the bar. During a discussion with CNN business correspondent Christine Romans about the use of "Happy Holidays" at this time of year, he asserted that use of this phrase excludes Christians.
Christ-less Christmas at the White House
For all of the conservatives' complaining about how our secular culture is making Christmas less religious (thought they blame godless liberals, not the culture), it's interesting that the White House's Christmas isn't very religious, either. I also hear that President Bush has used the phrase "Happy Holidays."
For all of the conservatives' complaining about how our secular culture is making Christmas less religious (thought they blame godless liberals, not the culture), it's interesting that the White House's Christmas isn't very religious, either. I also hear that President Bush has used the phrase "Happy Holidays."
Florida: Christians Break Law to Erect Nativity Scene
In Florida, Christians who didn't like a County Commission's decision not to erect a nativity display took matters into their own hands. They snuck over to the county's administration building in the middle of the night and erected a nativity scene themselves. It's just a coincidence that a decision on what to do about this won't be reached until after Christmas.
In Florida, Christians who didn't like a County Commission's decision not to erect a nativity display took matters into their own hands. They snuck over to the county's administration building in the middle of the night and erected a nativity scene themselves. It's just a coincidence that a decision on what to do about this won't be reached until after Christmas.
Florida: Hanukkah Songs Replace Christmas Songs, Christians Outraged
The choral concert at the Independence Middle School in Jupiter, Florida, had to be changed when a Jewish student pointed out that all the songs and none Jewish. Administrators checked the guidelines, found that that isn't permitted, and made substitutions. Christians are outraged that Christian songs had to make room for Jewish songs, though.
The choral concert at the Independence Middle School in Jupiter, Florida, had to be changed when a Jewish student pointed out that all the songs and none Jewish. Administrators checked the guidelines, found that that isn't permitted, and made substitutions. Christians are outraged that Christian songs had to make room for Jewish songs, though.
Taking Christmas Out of Christianity
Many religious conservatives complain about how liberals are trying to take Christianity out of Christmas, but should Christmas even be in Christianity to begin with? There are Christians today who say that it shouldn't. This position used to be much more common and maybe it's a sign of the influence of modern culture that things have changed so much.
Many religious conservatives complain about how liberals are trying to take Christianity out of Christmas, but should Christmas even be in Christianity to begin with? There are Christians today who say that it shouldn't. This position used to be much more common and maybe it's a sign of the influence of modern culture that things have changed so much.
Christ vs. Christmas
What does Christ have to do with Christmas? Many religious conservatives complain that modern liberalism and secularism have driven Christ from Christmas, but if we take a closer look at how Christmas is celebrated in modern America we find that there wasn't much of Christ there to begin with. What's there to "defend"?
What does Christ have to do with Christmas? Many religious conservatives complain that modern liberalism and secularism have driven Christ from Christmas, but if we take a closer look at how Christmas is celebrated in modern America we find that there wasn't much of Christ there to begin with. What's there to "defend"?
Christmas Wars & Christian Hegemony
How is it that members of the Christian majority in America are talking like they are really members of a persecuted minority? Aside from the fact that scriptures tells them they will be persecuted (therefore it must be true), there is a kernel of truth here: rather than being discriminated against, they are losing some of their dominant status in society.
How is it that members of the Christian majority in America are talking like they are really members of a persecuted minority? Aside from the fact that scriptures tells them they will be persecuted (therefore it must be true), there is a kernel of truth here: rather than being discriminated against, they are losing some of their dominant status in society.
Complaints Continue About Target & the Salvation Army
I've written before about complaints that Target will be treating the Salvation Army just like any other charity. The fact that other charities have been banned from solicitation doesn't matter. The fact that the Salvation Army will be on equal footing with everyone else doesn't matter. All that matters, it seems, is that a favored group is losing a special privilege.
I've written before about complaints that Target will be treating the Salvation Army just like any other charity. The fact that other charities have been banned from solicitation doesn't matter. The fact that the Salvation Army will be on equal footing with everyone else doesn't matter. All that matters, it seems, is that a favored group is losing a special privilege.
Target Stores Ban Salvation Army Bell Ringers
The Salvation Army bell ringers are a standard feature in front of many American stores during the holiday season, but not if you shop at Target. Rather than single out the Salvation Army for special treatment, they decided to enforce their "no solicitation" policy fairly and consistently. This, however, has angered more than a few people.
The Salvation Army bell ringers are a standard feature in front of many American stores during the holiday season, but not if you shop at Target. Rather than single out the Salvation Army for special treatment, they decided to enforce their "no solicitation" policy fairly and consistently. This, however, has angered more than a few people.
Britain: Cities Shun Church at Christmas
Churches in British cities don't see much of an increase in attendance on Christmas - but churches in rural Britain do. Rural increases can be as much as 200%. What accounts for this difference?
Churches in British cities don't see much of an increase in attendance on Christmas - but churches in rural Britain do. Rural increases can be as much as 200%. What accounts for this difference?
Florida Jews Hostile to Christianity?
Whenever people try to prevent Christians from appropriating the power of the government to promote their religion, they are attacked for being anti-Christian and anti-religion. It seems that no smear is too great to use - even if it smacks of anti-Semitism.
Whenever people try to prevent Christians from appropriating the power of the government to promote their religion, they are attacked for being anti-Christian and anti-religion. It seems that no smear is too great to use - even if it smacks of anti-Semitism.
Oklahoma: School Loses Funds for Removing Nativity Scene
The superintendant of the elementary school in Mustang, Oklahoma, decided to remove a Nativity scene from the school's Christmas program. Local voters retaliated by voting down a bond measure that would have provided nearly $11 million towards education. Because, you know, the kids deserve to have less because of this.
The superintendant of the elementary school in Mustang, Oklahoma, decided to remove a Nativity scene from the school's Christmas program. Local voters retaliated by voting down a bond measure that would have provided nearly $11 million towards education. Because, you know, the kids deserve to have less because of this.
Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?
For over a hundred years Christmas has been transforming from a religious to a secular holiday. Pagan elements always abounded but they have gained new importance alongside many secular aspects. Finally, evangelical Christians are taking notice - and they aren't at all happy. But what do they think they are going to do?
For over a hundred years Christmas has been transforming from a religious to a secular holiday. Pagan elements always abounded but they have gained new importance alongside many secular aspects. Finally, evangelical Christians are taking notice - and they aren't at all happy. But what do they think they are going to do?