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FATHER Christmas is perceived as overly white and male, according to a museum group.
The group is also advocating for Santa to cease judging naughty children.
Father Christmas is perceived as overly white and male, according to a museum groupCredit: Alamy
Brighton and Hove Museums has published an unusual guide on “decolonising” the iconic figure in red.
A blog post on their website proposes that Santa should collaborate with his elves on the gift production line to demonstrate equality.
The organization, which received £900,000 of taxpayer funding in October, argues that Santa’s “naughty and nice” list teaches children that the “colonizer has the authority to judge all individuals.”
The article was authored by the museum’s Joint Head of Culture Change, Simone LaCorbinière.
It states: “The story of a white, Western Santa who judges the behavior of all children presents issues.
“As he travels to each country, he decides if the children deserve gifts based on their ‘naughty’ or ‘nice’ behaviors. But who decided that Santa should be the judge of children’s behavior in every culture?”
LaCorbinière suggests that Santa should be a “more diverse character who embraces cultural exchange.”
She added: “Have Santa learn about various cultures instead of judging them. Stories could depict him engaging with their traditions.”
She also proposed that there should be “Mother Christmases,” noting: “Patriarchy and colonialism have historically been linked.”
A senior MP expressed: “During a season meant for goodwill and holiday cheer, it appears that so-called woke activists would prefer everyone to be unhappy.
“This represents the least appropriate use of taxpayer money.”
Brighton and Hove Museums has published an unusual guide on ‘decolonising’ Father ChristmasCredit: Alamy
The Royal Pavilion Palace, BrightonCredit: Alamy
Why is there a call to decolonise Santa Claus?
A museum group claims that Santa Claus is portrayed as overly white and male, and they advocate for a more diverse representation that reflects cultural exchange rather than judgment.
What changes are being suggested for Santa Claus?
The museum suggests that Santa should collaborate with his elves and learn about different cultures, rather than judging children’s behavior based on a naughty and nice list.
What is the public reaction to these suggestions?
Some public figures have criticized the initiative, expressing that it represents a misuse of taxpayer funds and detracts from the festive spirit.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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