“The popular conception of Santa Claus originates from folklore traditions surrounding the 4th-century Christian bishop Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children. Saint Nicholas became renowned for his reported generosity and secret gift-giving. The image of Santa Claus shares similarities with the English figure of Father Christmas, and they are both now popularly regarded as the same person.” (Wikipedia)
Today, the visual inclusion of this mythical figure in daily life, preceding the celebratory remembrance of the birth of Jesus, is deeply intertwined within the Christmas season.
Over the years, the red suited man with long white beard has been a constant. Duplicated, replicated, impersonated, he’s been a part of our story. A good story, and a symbol of kindness & generosity to be emulated.
The image of a woman behind the man (Mrs.Claus), was to be expected (and rightly so). For, as we all know, “behind every great man is a great woman.”
But I am increasingly disturbed by the more recent expression of a Drag Queen impersonation of Mrs. Claus reading stories to children during the festive season in advancement of a more inclusive society,
I do respect the need and applaud the effort made by others to break down walls of discrimination, bigotry, disrespect and hate; but cannot agree that this particular method or attempt to bring about change is appropriate.
Using what was once a form of edgy entertainment (which morphed into a medium to legitimize what was deemed up until the late sixties a form of aberrant sexual behaviour) to influence young developing minds, appears to be guided by “the end justifies the means,” regardless of how we get there mindset.
In fact, various members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community have also expressed concern about children being exposed to issues of gender & sexuality at too early an age.
Friends, is there not more appropriate ways we can help each other to be the kind of people we ought to be. Are we really helping inclusivity and promoting acceptance of each other? Could we not foster a loving, caring community of respect for difference without placing all the focus on what differentiates.
Looking at commonality, bridges of understanding, accepting one another as fellow human beings, wouldn't this significantly (I believe) advance the cause that many are striving to reconcile between individuals.
What do you think?
Let's talk about it!
