Dominant Culture Privilege and The Holidays

Join the Conversation:
Thursday, December 7th at 8:30am in the Multi-Purpose Room 
and/or Monday, December 11th at Noon via Zoom 

As we began collecting resources for your consideration one spiraled into another. Let’s begin with this article where you are asked to consider, ‘the single narrative’ and how Santa shows up in the storytelling/media you share with your children: Why is Santa Claus Always White?

  • Does your library/media rotation contain other celebrations? Is Santa always white?

  • If you are Christian, are all of your depictions of Jesus white?

The focus on Santa and Christmas begs us to consider: As a country that was founded on the right to religious freedom, it is surprising to many how much emphasis is placed on celebrating Christian holidays in December at the expense of other religious celebrations. Some people even claim that there is a War on Christmas, which seems ludicrous in relation to conflicts and devastation currently happening in other parts of the world. 5 Ways Christian Privilege Shows Up During the Holiday Season

  • The article suggests that familiarizing yourself with other traditions, is there a holiday you wish you knew more about?

  • Can your children identify other cultural holidays?

If you struggle with the concept of white privilege or Christian privilege because you don’t feel particularly privileged in your life experiences, please consider:

What Privilege Really Means (and Doesn't Mean)

Looking for resources for your kids?

The podcast Stoopkid Stories is a great one to add to your subscription list. Bursting with joy and song, the podcast is great for kids 5-10. This holiday episode examines what makes holidays truly special: the love and connections we share!

You Make the Holiday

In addition, here is a wonderful resource full of information about other holidays, perspectives, even a scientific article about Solstice and the position of our world in space, and how children celebrate Christmas in other parts of the world. Who knows, you may find a new tradition you want to include in your celebrations this year. Take some time to dive into one or two of these topics with your kiddos this season!

Winter Holiday Resources to Promote Inclusion and Connection