School District Bans the Phrase "Merry Christmas"
By: Deanna King
Updated: November 21, 2011
A local school district is banning the phrase "Merry Christmas." Parents in Batavia are outraged about the policy which also prohibits Christmas and Hanukkah decoration in the classroom.
A school board member says the policy was adopted in 2001 as part of "The No Child Left Behind Act" in order to receive federal funding. However, parents and teachers say they have never heard of these rules until now.
The school board is asking principals in the district to enforce the policy. We obtained a copy of a memo titled "Religious Expression in Schools." It states "It would inappropriate to organize a Christmas party for a classroom or school." Parties now have to be called "multicultural celebrations." Religious symbols such as Christmas trees, angels and menorahs can only be used in lesson plans.
As far as holiday concert is concerned the program has to be "balanced." Certain songs and expressions are not allowed. The email says "e.g. Merry Christmas should not be included in any spoken or written remarks."
"I'm not happy at all," said Derek Buckingham. He says it's not fair to his children and other students who celebrate the holiday. "They do enough to take Christianity out of school. Now, they're taking Christmas too?"
We spoke to several teachers who are upset about the policy. Parents say the district's attempt to be politically correct has gone too far. "I'm just appalled that they would do away with Merry Christmas. It's been Christmas all these years and now to a bunch of people that's not politically correct," said Lucy Hudson, a parent of a child in the district. "I think that's a bunch of baloney."
Superintendent Margaret Puzio contacted us and says the memo we received was not meant for the public. It was just "talking points" for faulty meetings. She says if teachers want to put up a Christmas Tree as part of a non-secular display it would be allowed.
A school board member says the policy was adopted in 2001 as part of "The No Child Left Behind Act" in order to receive federal funding. However, parents and teachers say they have never heard of these rules until now.
The school board is asking principals in the district to enforce the policy. We obtained a copy of a memo titled "Religious Expression in Schools." It states "It would inappropriate to organize a Christmas party for a classroom or school." Parties now have to be called "multicultural celebrations." Religious symbols such as Christmas trees, angels and menorahs can only be used in lesson plans.
As far as holiday concert is concerned the program has to be "balanced." Certain songs and expressions are not allowed. The email says "e.g. Merry Christmas should not be included in any spoken or written remarks."
"I'm not happy at all," said Derek Buckingham. He says it's not fair to his children and other students who celebrate the holiday. "They do enough to take Christianity out of school. Now, they're taking Christmas too?"
We spoke to several teachers who are upset about the policy. Parents say the district's attempt to be politically correct has gone too far. "I'm just appalled that they would do away with Merry Christmas. It's been Christmas all these years and now to a bunch of people that's not politically correct," said Lucy Hudson, a parent of a child in the district. "I think that's a bunch of baloney."
Superintendent Margaret Puzio contacted us and says the memo we received was not meant for the public. It was just "talking points" for faulty meetings. She says if teachers want to put up a Christmas Tree as part of a non-secular display it would be allowed.
Comments
This country was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles! If you don't like it, leave!
Flag says: That is really sweet. I don't think Jesus would like that attitude. This great nation is for all, not just for those who think/believe as you do. My family came here in 1632 and I don't intend to leave. This is where I am guaranteed freedom of and from religion - also known as the great melting pot. No one wants to take away anyone's religion or heritage, but the government should not be promoting one rellgion over the thousands of others.
Flag says: That is really sweet. I don't think Jesus would like that attitude. This great nation is for all, not just for those who think/believe as you do. My family came here in 1632 and I don't intend to leave. This is where I am guaranteed freedom of and from religion - also known as the great melting pot. No one wants to take away anyone's religion or heritage, but the government should not be promoting one rellgion over the thousands of others.
Anonymous A.
November 30, 2011 at 4:06 pm
GUESS WHAT? This country was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles! If you don't like it, leave! I am so tired of Christians and Jews having to do whatever the minority groups want! It's so sad that no one has the courage of one's convictions anymore. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU!!!
Anonymous A.
November 30, 2011 at 2:00 pm
[ if my thrd grade class wants to erect a nativity scene on the front yard of the school house next to a Hanacha lamp then it follows that the government must protect my right to do just that! after all just what Liberties are being violated?[
Neither should be on any public land, but if one is allowed than all should be allowed including Muslims, [censored], etc.
etc. Not enough space to display the symbols for the thousands of religions. Who should be left out? Wouldn't it be better to display these things in front of their own churches?
etc, etc.,
Neither should be on any public land, but if one is allowed than all should be allowed including Muslims, [censored], etc.
etc. Not enough space to display the symbols for the thousands of religions. Who should be left out? Wouldn't it be better to display these things in front of their own churches?
etc, etc.,
Anonymous A.
November 27, 2011 at 1:15 am
[quote name="Flag"]Please I don't mean to be impertinent but would you state which rights or rather Liberties are infringed upon when i say Merry Christmas to a devout Jew or Muslim
Flag says: You can say that any time you want. The point is the government can't promote a particular religion.[/quote]
Okay good we got that straight now to the next level the government must protect my right to religion and the practice correct. If this is true and it is if my thrd grade class wants to erect a nativity scene on the front yard of the school house next to a Hanacha lamp then it follows that the government must protect my right to do just that! after all just what Liberties are being violated?
Flag says: You can say that any time you want. The point is the government can't promote a particular religion.[/quote]
Okay good we got that straight now to the next level the government must protect my right to religion and the practice correct. If this is true and it is if my thrd grade class wants to erect a nativity scene on the front yard of the school house next to a Hanacha lamp then it follows that the government must protect my right to do just that! after all just what Liberties are being violated?
Anonymous A.
November 26, 2011 at 2:25 pm
Please I don't mean to be impertinent but would you state which rights or rather Liberties are infringed upon when i say Merry Christmas to a devout Jew or Muslim ?
Flag says: You can say that any time you want. The point is the government can't promote a particular religion.
Flag says: You can say that any time you want. The point is the government can't promote a particular religion.
Anonymous A.
November 26, 2011 at 1:57 am
Christmas is suppose to be happy a time of family and friends
Flag says: You said it - "family and friends". No one is taking Christmas away from you. You may say Merry Christmas all day long and celebrate in your home and church and other private places any time you want, but the government may not promote your religion. What is so difficult to understand about that? I'll bet you would love it if the teacher asked the students to get out their prayer mats and said it is time for a prayer to Mohammed.
Flag says: You said it - "family and friends". No one is taking Christmas away from you. You may say Merry Christmas all day long and celebrate in your home and church and other private places any time you want, but the government may not promote your religion. What is so difficult to understand about that? I'll bet you would love it if the teacher asked the students to get out their prayer mats and said it is time for a prayer to Mohammed.
Anonymous A.
November 26, 2011 at 1:55 am
[quote name="Flag"]practice of any religion unless that practice infringes on another PERSONS liberties.
Flag says: Certainly celebration of Christmas infringes on the rights of everyone who is not Christian. The government needs to remain neutral regarding reilgion.[/quote]
Please I don't mean to be impertinent but would you state which rights or rather Liberties are infringed upon when i say Merry Christmas to a devout Jew or Muslim ?
Flag says: Certainly celebration of Christmas infringes on the rights of everyone who is not Christian. The government needs to remain neutral regarding reilgion.[/quote]
Please I don't mean to be impertinent but would you state which rights or rather Liberties are infringed upon when i say Merry Christmas to a devout Jew or Muslim ?
Anonymous A.
November 26, 2011 at 12:11 am
practice of any religion unless that practice infringes on another PERSONS liberties.
Flag says: Certainly celebration of Christmas infringes on the rights of everyone who is not Christian. The government needs to remain neutral regarding reilgion.
Flag says: Certainly celebration of Christmas infringes on the rights of everyone who is not Christian. The government needs to remain neutral regarding reilgion.
Anonymous A.
November 26, 2011 at 12:04 am
@ Flag the government is to protect the rights of citizens whom wish to practice their religion and not to limit their speech wherever one chooses to speak.it is not Constitutional for the government to interfere in any practice of any religion unless that practice infringes on another PERSONS liberties.
Anonymous A.
November 25, 2011 at 6:43 pm
This is outrageos. Where is the happiness in our world nowadays? Christmas is suppose to be happy a time of family and friends and now they are just taking it away like it is nothing. I am offended by this because if people are against christmas then so be it, just because you dont celebrate it doesnt mean everyone else should live your way."christmas" was before you, and if you dont like it that is too bad, I will continue to say merry christmas. Im not asking you to, im just doing the "friendly spirited thing" ALL holidays are celebrated in schools.If you dont celebrate, then thats your choice, we are not "forcing" it on you. This is pathetic!
Anonymous A.
November 25, 2011 at 6:05 pm
The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.
Flag says: I don't know if Ben really wrote that, but I do know it has been around for years.
Flag says: I don't know if Ben really wrote that, but I do know it has been around for years.
Anonymous A.
November 24, 2011 at 3:21 am
The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.
I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.
It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year.
I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country.
I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are, Christmas trees.
It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year.
I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country.
Anonymous A.
November 24, 2011 at 3:01 am
We all have the right to believe and practice what we want.
Flag says: Of course we do, but we don't have the right to impose it on others in public schools. No one is stopping you from saying Merry Christmas or whatever you want. The point is not to impose your religion or any religion on public school children. Why isn't it enough to celebrate in your home and in your church and in any other private place? Why do you need the government to promote your religion? Any religion worth anything should not need the government to promote it. It should easily and happily stand on its own.
Flag says: Of course we do, but we don't have the right to impose it on others in public schools. No one is stopping you from saying Merry Christmas or whatever you want. The point is not to impose your religion or any religion on public school children. Why isn't it enough to celebrate in your home and in your church and in any other private place? Why do you need the government to promote your religion? Any religion worth anything should not need the government to promote it. It should easily and happily stand on its own.
Anonymous A.
November 24, 2011 at 12:13 am
Religious Freedom: "The right to practise the religion of one's choice, or to be a non-believer." ... the right to PRACTICE religion is the key here. We all have the right to believe and practice what we want. Our rights end when another's start. Only when we push beliefs on others is this against the law. By saying Merry Christmas you aren't pushing beliefs on anyone. And like I said, any and every religion is accepted in public schools, no one has the right to take Christianity out of it.
Anonymous A.
November 24, 2011 at 12:04 am
What happened to religious freedom?
Flag says: Why can't you understand that this is religious freedom - freedom for everyone? Why should Christians' holiday be the ONE celebrated? It is unconstitutional for the government to promote any religion. In this great nation we are guaranteed freedom of and from religion. That is why the government needs to remain neutral. If you want your children to celebrate Christmas in school send them to a private Christian school.
Flag says: Why can't you understand that this is religious freedom - freedom for everyone? Why should Christians' holiday be the ONE celebrated? It is unconstitutional for the government to promote any religion. In this great nation we are guaranteed freedom of and from religion. That is why the government needs to remain neutral. If you want your children to celebrate Christmas in school send them to a private Christian school.
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 9:21 pm
This is so sad. Christmas is obviously a CHRISTian holiday, we know. But furthermore, it is a NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED holiday in America. This school has no right to ban Christmas from its students and staff. They might as well just make them go to school during Christmas as well. What happened to religious freedom? A simple "Merry Christmas" does not hurt a soul. In fact, it brings joy. The Christmas season is about love, joy, and giving. If you do not personally celebrate the holiday, then- its simply a phrase to you. But most certainly not one that offends in any way. Go ahead, wish a Happy Hanukkah in return. That has never hurt anyone either. Just stay out of our personal lives and beliefs because Christmas has been a part of the American tradition since the 1800s, and no one has the right to say otherwise. If I was a student at this school, I would be wishing every person a very Merry Christmas as we celebrate the gift of love and salvation. God bless.
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 9:02 pm
Who said anything about being an atheists or anti-american? Are you saying all Americans are Christian and celebrate Christmas since according to you it is the "American culture." You said it perfectly- "if you do not celebrate it then don't celebrate it." The first step to being able to do so is by not being forced to celebrate at a public school.
Flag says; Very well said. Many Christians cannot accept that there is any other religion (or at least any that should be celebrated) when in fact there are thousands.
Flag says; Very well said. Many Christians cannot accept that there is any other religion (or at least any that should be celebrated) when in fact there are thousands.
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 6:59 pm
\"Ken"]WOW...another win for liberals and Muslims. \
Flag says: What you are failing to realize is that neutrality by the government is a win for all religions. The government should not be promoting any religion over any other.
Flag says: What you are failing to realize is that neutrality by the government is a win for all religions. The government should not be promoting any religion over any other.
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 6:53 pm
[/quote]
please cite for me the Constitutional authority to ban government promotion of religion[/quote]
Establishment Clause: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion."
please cite for me the Constitutional authority to ban government promotion of religion[/quote]
Establishment Clause: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion."
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 4:21 pm
[quote name="ray"]this is ridiculous and anti-American - whats next? christmas is a part of the American culture. if you do not elebrate it then don't celebrate it- why push your disbeliefs on everyone else? [censored] athiests! give me a break[/quote]
Who said anything about being an atheists or anti-american? Are you saying all Americans are Christian and celebrate Christmas since according to you it is the "American culture." You said it perfectly- "if you do not celebrate it then don't celebrate it." The first step to being able to do so is by not being forced to celebrate at a public school.
Who said anything about being an atheists or anti-american? Are you saying all Americans are Christian and celebrate Christmas since according to you it is the "American culture." You said it perfectly- "if you do not celebrate it then don't celebrate it." The first step to being able to do so is by not being forced to celebrate at a public school.
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 3:26 pm
[quote name="Flag"][quote name="Dan Prentice"]how can you ban free speech??[/quote]
You can't ban free speech, but you can ban government promotion of religion.[/quote]
please cite for me the Constitutional authority to ban government promotion of religion
You can't ban free speech, but you can ban government promotion of religion.[/quote]
please cite for me the Constitutional authority to ban government promotion of religion
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 12:12 pm
WOW...another win for liberals and Muslims. Soon, there will be a regulation that says we are all required to look to the east at a certain time of the day in recognition and toleration of the beliefs of others....Funny isn't it? We are supposed to cower to the liberals and Islam but they never do anything to support Christianity. What do you expect when our nation has been gradually torn apart from inside?
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 12:08 pm
this is ridiculous and anti-American - whats next? christmas is a part of the American culture. if you do not elebrate it then don't celebrate it- why push your disbeliefs on everyone else? [censored] athiests! give me a break
Anonymous A.
November 23, 2011 at 4:13 am
[quote name="Jessie"]As a student and an educator, I think it is ridiculous at what is being written here. No one is taking away Christmas from your family and homes. They are just showing that it should not be celebrated in schools. Not everyone is Christian. Why should they have to walk into a classroom and be expected to celebrate a holiday that is not their own? If we say Merry Christmas to everyone at school and decorate trees, how will children that are not Christian feel? As for taking away the vacation...ha. What century are we living in? It is called a winter recess not lets take off so everyone can celebrate Christmas. So I think it is safe to say teachers can still safely go on a paid vacation without the word Christmas in it.[/quote]
Flag says: It is refreshing to read that a few people really get it. Thanks for your post.
Flag says: It is refreshing to read that a few people really get it. Thanks for your post.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 11:15 pm
As a student and an educator, I think it is ridiculous at what is being written here. No one is taking away Christmas from your family and homes. They are just showing that it should not be celebrated in schools. Not everyone is Christian. Why should they have to walk into a classroom and be expected to celebrate a holiday that is not their own? If we say Merry Christmas to everyone at school and decorate trees, how will children that are not Christian feel? As for taking away the vacation...ha. What century are we living in? It is called a winter recess not lets take off so everyone can celebrate Christmas. So I think it is safe to say teachers can still safely go on a paid vacation without the word Christmas in it.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 11:02 pm
Shame on Batavia. Speaking as a parent and teacher, I am appalled. Let's just suck all the life out of teachers and students. That's sure to raise test scores. SDisgusting. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 10:04 pm
This country was formed on religion,
No, we are guaranteed freedom of and from religion. Religion is not the law of the land. We are governed by the US Constitution which so carefully was written without any religious references. "Under God" and "In God we trust" wasn't added until the 1950s.
No, we are guaranteed freedom of and from religion. Religion is not the law of the land. We are governed by the US Constitution which so carefully was written without any religious references. "Under God" and "In God we trust" wasn't added until the 1950s.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 8:28 pm
[quote name="Maggie McCallum"]No "Merry Christmas", then no paid time off, for there is no holiday. Work as though you have nothing to celebrate. Lord knows the constituents in this state have nothing but a big radical mess on our hands. Freedoms being taken, one at a time.[/quote]
Agreed! Then lets see people change their minds about CHRISTMAS! Bet they'd all want it back. Except those you don't contribute to the work force, of course, because that's "their" rights too. This country was formed on religion, so quickly a lot have forgotten.
Agreed! Then lets see people change their minds about CHRISTMAS! Bet they'd all want it back. Except those you don't contribute to the work force, of course, because that's "their" rights too. This country was formed on religion, so quickly a lot have forgotten.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 5:23 pm
This is rather idiotic. I assume the Batavia school board then really wants lawyers from Alliance Defense Fund or the equivalent to sue them for their "interpretation" of the law. Since every single school district in the US is NOT banning per Batavia, I'd pretty safely say that the Batavia board is seriously mis-interpreting the law and is about to be shown the foolishness of their ways.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 4:29 pm
The superintendent has been said that this has been a policy for ten years and she has sent out this memo every year, why is it none of the employees of the school district knew anything about it? If you go into the offices you will see Christmas decorations everywhere and why are none of the parents informed of this. If it has been a policy isnt it the job of the superintendent to make sure the parents are informed? There are parents out there that where just out of high school at the time. The superintendent had a chance to tell her side of the story and explained everything, but she chose to hide in her office, which is not the first time she has done this.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 3:15 pm
[quote name="Dan Prentice"]how can you ban free speech??[/quote]
You can't ban free speech, but you can ban government promotion of religion.
You can't ban free speech, but you can ban government promotion of religion.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:56 pm
how can you ban free speech??
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:22 pm
No "Merry Christmas", then no paid time off, for there is no holiday. Work as though you have nothing to celebrate. Lord knows the constituents in this state have nothing but a big radical mess on our hands. Freedoms being taken, one at a time.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 5:47 am
this is rediculous. if they dont want to offend anyone why not elimate Christmas and have schools open so teachers can work lest they be offended. i refuse to shop in any store that will not say Merry Christmas. what about Halloween? that is a religion based holiday just not Christianity. why is that ok? i think this is getting crazy. what happened to common sense? if you do not want to celebrate that is ok just do not take away my right to. what happened to tolerance???
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 4:35 am
The article says it was adopted as part of the "No Child Left Behind Act". If this is true, what interest does the government have in including these items in an act like that. Many churches are familiar with the 501C3. When you want money from the government, they usually want something in return. It's what they want, and why they want it that can draw skepticism and pose chilling questions about the trustworthiness of the people in government who formulate the bills and acts. Obama celebrated the ramadan holy times, also invited Islamic NFL players to the White House, etc....Is that a "Separation of Church and State"? Regardless of that, Christmas in the commercial sense is hardly religious. The birth of Jesus would not be mentioned or be discussed at most "Christmas" parties in the corporate or educational world. As a result the "separation of church and state" argument is very ambiguous and weak. There is nothing wrong with the "Christ" in Christmas or the spirit of giving.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 4:28 am
We are supposed to be teaching our children acceptance, RESPECT, and tolerance.
How do you teach respect if one religion is promoted? What about all the children whose families are not Christian???
How do you teach respect if one religion is promoted? What about all the children whose families are not Christian???
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 4:12 am
It is hard to believe we have moved so far backwards in segregation. Our schools banning holidays with any religious connotation is outrageous! I thought we have moved forward. We are supposed to be teaching our children acceptance, RESPECT, and tolerance. We do not need to agree with other peoples choices but we do need to respect that it is their choice to make.
Laura O
Laura O
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 3:57 am
[quote name="Marcene"]There is no policy of separation of Church and state - it doesn't even exist in the Constitution.
You are right about that. The term is an offshoot of the phrase, "wall of separation between church and state," as written in Thomas Jefferson's letter to the Danbury Baptist Association in 1802.
If you look at some of the Supreme Court cases you will see how invaluable it has been. I have been on the Board of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State for decades. I invite you to review some of their work and you will quickly see how important it is to all of us.
You are right about that. The term is an offshoot of the phrase, "wall of separation between church and state," as written in Thomas Jefferson's letter to the Danbury Baptist Association in 1802.
If you look at some of the Supreme Court cases you will see how invaluable it has been. I have been on the Board of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State for decades. I invite you to review some of their work and you will quickly see how important it is to all of us.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 3:32 am
There is no policy of separation of Church and state - it doesn't even exist in the Constitution. In fact the only quote is in the first amendment" "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, OR PROHIBITING THE FREE EXERCISE THEREOF..." This prohibits free exercise. That decision shows gross ignorance of history of our country and how the Constitution was written. Over the doors of their school should be written "Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'intrate", or "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here."
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 3:17 am
[quote name="Jen"]Public school is for educating children. Ask your children if they want to be respectful and kind to everyone. Ask your children if have an issue with celebrating all cultures. Ask them if they care if they make a cookie that looks like a christmas tree or a snowflake. Ask them if they have a problem saying Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. I wish the parents that are outraged took a step back and realized that the goal here is to help our promote peace, open minds and equality.[/quote]
Very well stated...
Very well stated...
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 3:03 am
[quote name="Larry Becker"]For the people that do not like it dont say it, but dont try to tell us if we can say Merry Christmas or not.
Good grief, You can say it 'til the cows come home. Can't you see that it is only about the government (school district) not establishing religion or promoting a particular religion. .
Good grief, You can say it 'til the cows come home. Can't you see that it is only about the government (school district) not establishing religion or promoting a particular religion. .
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:56 am
Public school is for educating children. Ask your children if they want to be respectful and kind to everyone. Ask your children if have an issue with celebrating all cultures. Ask them if they care if they make a cookie that looks like a christmas tree or a snowflake. Ask them if they have a problem saying Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. I wish the parents that are outraged took a step back and realized that the goal here is to help our promote peace, open minds and equality.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:55 am
For the people that do not like it dont say it, but dont try to tell us if we can say Merry Christmas or not.Any other religion has the freedom to do what they want or say what they want but when it comes to Christ people have a problem. Grow up get over it and enjoy life, dont try to controll what others may say or not.If you dont like it dont say it!!!!
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:47 am
[quote name="Fran J. Hollands"]I applaud Batavia for finally acting on what should have been done long ago: respecting the seperation of church and State, remember?!!!
The separation of church and state in our great nation is what separates us from other nations. It should be highly valued,[/quote]
Dear Fran,
The constitution does not state a separation of church and state but rather that the government could not establish a state religion, such as the Church of England. When this country began many people came here to escape religious persecution. So to help prevent that, the founding fathers put in the Constitution that the state or government could not dictate what religion you had to be. So the state cannot dictate but the people can express their religious beliefs in the public domain.
The separation of church and state in our great nation is what separates us from other nations. It should be highly valued,[/quote]
Dear Fran,
The constitution does not state a separation of church and state but rather that the government could not establish a state religion, such as the Church of England. When this country began many people came here to escape religious persecution. So to help prevent that, the founding fathers put in the Constitution that the state or government could not dictate what religion you had to be. So the state cannot dictate but the people can express their religious beliefs in the public domain.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:32 am
This is ridiculous. If you are going to ban "Merry Christmas," then you have to ban "Happy Hanukkah," and any greeting about Ramadan, too (Ramadan Kareem or Ramadan Mubarek). You know that if you tried to do that, it would raise issues re being Anti-semitic, and Muslims would call it discrimination, too. Why is the Christian holiday being singled out as it relates to separation of church and state? Per the First Amendment, we have freedom of speech. In addition,"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." The Separation of church and state was designed to prevent the government from legislating which religion a person had to be...it was not designed to stop all expression of religion in any state owned facility, or it would negate the earlier clause re "the free exercise thereof." I have seen schools ban Christmas, and do a concert that included songs about Hanukkah and Ramadan. That doesn't make any sense!All are OK.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 2:29 am
[quote name="Sue Lione"]Dear Channel 8, Why are you inventing this as such a "controversy?" When you stick a microphone in the face of a parent who is opposed to Batavia"s commendable policy, it makes your reporting appear biased. How about reminding your ill-informed viewers that this country does have a very clear stated policy of seperation of church and State. For much too long we have been on this slippery slope believing that this is a "Christian" country. Christmas has Nothing to do with teaching morals, values and respect in our schools. Your kind of reporting feeds into that misconception.[/quote]
We need only look to the words of our founding fathers:
"The Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion." - John Adams, 1796
We need only look to the words of our founding fathers:
"The Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion." - John Adams, 1796
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:41 am
I applaud Batavia for finally acting on what should have been done long ago: respecting the seperation of church and State, remember?!!!
The separation of church and state in our great nation is what separates us from other nations. It should be highly valued,
The separation of church and state in our great nation is what separates us from other nations. It should be highly valued,
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:21 am
Dear Channel 8, Why are you inventing this as such a "controversy?" When you stick a microphone in the face of a parent who is opposed to Batavia"s commendable policy, it makes your reporting appear biased. How about reminding your ill-informed viewers that this country does have a very clear stated policy of seperation of church and State. For much too long we have been on this slippery slope believing that this is a "Christian" country. Christmas has Nothing to do with teaching morals, values and respect in our schools. Your kind of reporting feeds into that misconception.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:19 am
St. Valentines day is religious so no more valentines to pass around and St. Patricks day is religious so no more clovers and pot of gold. Where will it end?
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:15 am
] There is nothing wrong with Christmas in school,the public schools should still be teaching the bible. kids need religion in there lives, this country is going to straight to hell.[/quote]
Public schools are for all. Would it be okay if someone of a different religion was proselytizing to your child? Parents can teach their children anything they want to about religion, but why would you want their school teachers to take on that role? Certainly there should be lessons and discussions about religion from a historical perspective, but no teacher or administrator should impose their particular religion on any child.
Public schools are for all. Would it be okay if someone of a different religion was proselytizing to your child? Parents can teach their children anything they want to about religion, but why would you want their school teachers to take on that role? Certainly there should be lessons and discussions about religion from a historical perspective, but no teacher or administrator should impose their particular religion on any child.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:14 am
[quote name="Inkraven"]" Parties now have to be called "multicultural celebrations." "
This right here says it all, but you have to be able to get the joke.
I wonder how many of the Christmas-haters out there have the courage of their convictions to turn down a gift, or show up for work on 25 December?[/quote]
I could not have said it better.
This right here says it all, but you have to be able to get the joke.
I wonder how many of the Christmas-haters out there have the courage of their convictions to turn down a gift, or show up for work on 25 December?[/quote]
I could not have said it better.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:03 am
" Parties now have to be called "multicultural celebrations." "
This right here says it all, but you have to be able to get the joke.
I wonder how many of the Christmas-haters out there have the courage of their convictions to turn down a gift, or show up for work on 25 December?
This right here says it all, but you have to be able to get the joke.
I wonder how many of the Christmas-haters out there have the courage of their convictions to turn down a gift, or show up for work on 25 December?
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 1:00 am
[quote name="Sue Lione"]Look People, Get over it!! Its about time we grew up and realized that this religious pandering has been gradually creeping into our public main streets. I applaud Batavia for finally acting on what should have been done long ago: respecting the seperation of church and State, remember?!!![/quote]
Ok. Lets grow up, why are people crying over the words merry christmas? Saying those words are not forcing religion on anyone.This Easter tell the children they are no longer aloud to say Happy Easter to anyone.
Ok. Lets grow up, why are people crying over the words merry christmas? Saying those words are not forcing religion on anyone.This Easter tell the children they are no longer aloud to say Happy Easter to anyone.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:59 am
[quote name="Nathan"][quote name="Fran J. Hollands"]A bigot is a prejudiced person who is intolerant of any opinions differing from their own or intolerant of people of different political views, ethnicity, race, class, religion, profession, sexuality or gender.
Neutrality is not bigotry.[/quote] There is nothing wrong with Christmas in school,the public schools should still be teaching the bible. kids need religion in there lives, this country is going to straight to hell.[/quote]
The United States has always been comprised of different faiths and cultures. If you don't like the melting, you should get out of the pot.
Neutrality is not bigotry.[/quote] There is nothing wrong with Christmas in school,the public schools should still be teaching the bible. kids need religion in there lives, this country is going to straight to hell.[/quote]
The United States has always been comprised of different faiths and cultures. If you don't like the melting, you should get out of the pot.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:52 am
When my children where young I taught them that the world was full of different religions all important to the people who have faith in them and they had a right to choose what they believed in. My kids where taught to respect others faith and be proud of what direction they chose to take. You cant teach tolerance of others by suppressing this knowledge.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:51 am
Look People, Get over it!! Its about time we grew up and realized that this religious pandering has been gradually creeping into our public main streets. I applaud Batavia for finally acting on what should have been done long ago: respecting the seperation of church and State, remember?!!!
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:50 am
[quote name="Nathan"][quote name="Lorri"]How would you feel if it was your birthday and your name couldnt be spoken at the party? This is basically what is happening by taking Christ out of Christmas.[/quote]
I could not agree more, Lorri[/quote]
I don't quite understand this comment. The whole point of this policy seems to be that Christ IS a part of Christmas, and the district doesn't want to give a governmental endorsement of any one religion in a public capacity.
I could not agree more, Lorri[/quote]
I don't quite understand this comment. The whole point of this policy seems to be that Christ IS a part of Christmas, and the district doesn't want to give a governmental endorsement of any one religion in a public capacity.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:46 am
[quote name="Fran J. Hollands"]A bigot is a prejudiced person who is intolerant of any opinions differing from their own or intolerant of people of different political views, ethnicity, race, class, religion, profession, sexuality or gender.
Neutrality is not bigotry.[/quote] There is nothing wrong with Christmas in school,the public schools should still be teaching the bible. kids need religion in there lives, this country is going to straight to hell.
Neutrality is not bigotry.[/quote] There is nothing wrong with Christmas in school,the public schools should still be teaching the bible. kids need religion in there lives, this country is going to straight to hell.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:46 am
The policy can't be that big of a deal if no parent has noticed it since it was implemented in 2001. If they want their kids to celebrate religion in class, maybe a public school isn't the right place for them.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:35 am
A bigot is a prejudiced person who is intolerant of any opinions differing from their own or intolerant of people of different political views, ethnicity, race, class, religion, profession, sexuality or gender.
Neutrality is not bigotry.
Neutrality is not bigotry.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:26 am
What is becoming of our American culture? Christmas one of Americas most recognized and celebrated holidays is being slowly deteriated. Why is it so important for administrators to abolish the theme and meaning of Christmas from our public schools speech? As an American I am appalled that a Superintendant has the right to control freedom of speech and tarnish one of Americas culture. Being politicaly correct is taking away Americas family values and traditions to satisfy other countries beliefs. Will letting administrative forces making these decisions for us lead us to lose our identity?
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:23 am
I dont think a child will be punished for wishing another a Merry Christmas. The point is that the school system should not be promoting one religion over another. There are hundreds of religions,so rather than celebrate them all it is easier to refrain from promoting any.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:19 am
[quote name="Fran J. Hollands"]I applaud the Batavia School District. School districts (government) in the interest of all need to remain neutral regarding religion. Any religion worth anything should not need the government to promote it. Everyone is free to celebrate in their homes and in their churches, but to impose their religion on innocent school children is wrong. Our forefathers in their wisdom made sure we would have freedom of and from religion. May it continue to be so.[/quote]
your a bigot.
your a bigot.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:18 am
[quote name="Lorri"]How would you feel if it was your birthday and your name couldnt be spoken at the party? This is basically what is happening by taking Christ out of Christmas.[/quote]
I could not agree more, Lorri
I could not agree more, Lorri
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:15 am
The Batavia school district has gone way to fare with this won. This political correctness is getting out of hand.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:12 am
One thing that needs to be considered is how far they are taking this. If it is going to be that you can no longer have "Christmas" parties in schools and they need to be "Holiday" parties, fine. If it is that one student will be punished for wishing another a "Merry Christmas," that is different. Then you are hurting freedom of religious expression.
It is also important to teach children about all religions, including Christianity. When I was in school, at our annual holiday concert we sang songs from all faiths and our choir director used to emphasize the fact that all these different beliefs still used music as expression. An important lesson in tolerance.
Also, does this now mean that the School will be giving other religions Holy days off? Will students now have off for Yom Kippur, Ramadan? Or will school breaks still be dictated by Christmas and Easter? You can not just take out Christmas in the name of inclusion and call it a day.
It is also important to teach children about all religions, including Christianity. When I was in school, at our annual holiday concert we sang songs from all faiths and our choir director used to emphasize the fact that all these different beliefs still used music as expression. An important lesson in tolerance.
Also, does this now mean that the School will be giving other religions Holy days off? Will students now have off for Yom Kippur, Ramadan? Or will school breaks still be dictated by Christmas and Easter? You can not just take out Christmas in the name of inclusion and call it a day.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:10 am
I am not a religous person at all, but I dont believe forbidding children to wish another classmate a merry christmas is the right thing to do. I know many people have many different religions and last I knew they were not offended when someone wished them a merry christmas. I also dont agree with children not being able to celebrate Hanukkah, you say everything should be multi-cultured but its being supressed and I want to know how is how you can teach a child that its wrong to wish someone a merry christmas. Christmas is suppose to be full of love and happiness but your banning it.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:09 am
Parents need to make a decision and let the school board know that they will not tolerate this. Always the majority has to give in to the minority. Hey, what about Kwanza, this holiday suddenly appeared within the last 10-15 years and now as Fran puts it is being "indoctrinated" into our school children. Do you hear people complaining about it. Get a grip.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:07 am
[quote name="Ken"]Keep it up idiots. Your schools are gonna be hurting with no students. My kids school district does this, I will pull them and have them home schooled. This way, they will know about morals and God![/quote]
Hopefully you are teaching morals regardless of where your children are, If you want christian indoctrination why not send them to a private christian school?.
Hopefully you are teaching morals regardless of where your children are, If you want christian indoctrination why not send them to a private christian school?.
Anonymous A.
November 22, 2011 at 12:03 am
Keep it up idiots. Your schools are gonna be hurting with no students. My kids school district does this, I will pull them and have them home schooled. This way, they will know about morals and God!
Anonymous A.
November 21, 2011 at 11:46 pm
[quote name="Lorri"]How would you feel if it was your birthday and your name couldnt be spoken at the party? This is basically what is happening by taking Christ out of Christmas.[/quote]
No one is taking Christ out of Christmas it is just taking indoctrination out of public schools.
No one is taking Christ out of Christmas it is just taking indoctrination out of public schools.
Anonymous A.
November 21, 2011 at 11:44 pm
I applaud the Batavia School District. School districts (government) in the interest of all need to remain neutral regarding religion. Any religion worth anything should not need the government to promote it. Everyone is free to celebrate in their homes and in their churches, but to impose their religion on innocent school children is wrong. Our forefathers in their wisdom made sure we would have freedom of and from religion. May it continue to be so.
Anonymous A.
November 21, 2011 at 11:43 pm
How would you feel if it was your birthday and your name couldnt be spoken at the party? This is basically what is happening by taking Christ out of Christmas.
Anonymous A.
November 21, 2011 at 11:35 pm
