Europe-wide Backlash as Cities Revise Christmas Traditions Toward Inclusivity
Across Europe, governments, schools, and publicly funded institutions have begun rethinking traditional Christmas displays and customs to promote inclusivity, sparking widespread public backlash. In Brussels, a new Grand Place nativity scene by German artist Victoria-Maria features faceless figures, replacing a traditional set used for 25 years. Brussels Mayor Philippe Close defended the installation as a balance of the holiday's tone despite criticism and vandalism, including backlash from Belgian soccer player Thomas Meunier on X.
In the United Kingdom, Simone LaCorbinière of Brighton and Hove Museums suggested 'decolonising' Father Christmas by presenting diverse depictions and introducing Mother Christmases. This proposal faced condemnation from Conservative politicians such as Sir Alec Shelbrooke. Additionally, some British schools have reportedly replaced Christmas-themed clothing with generic winter or seasonal attire to avoid exclusivity.
Debates over Christmas music have also arisen, linked to the newly enacted Employment Rights Bill that requires employers to prevent harassment by third parties based on religion. Concerns have been voiced about the potential impact on traditional Christmas songs, with Lord Young of the Free Speech Union commenting on the issue.
These developments reflect a broader European trend toward reexamining traditional Christmas symbols and language, prompting significant public discussion and controversy.
