Best Answer to the Chistmas vs Holiday Celebration

I wanted to share a great letter to the Editor that was written a few months ago in response to an honest concern about highlighting Christmas vs a more generic holiday representation. There is always strong debate on the topic and the following letter is a respectful an insightful explanation of why celebrating Christmas should not offend anyone but should be embraced. Christmas Village is local heritage

Dear Editor: First and foremost I would like to thank Mr. Peter Wahlstrom for his kind donation to the “Flower Fund.” We sincerely appreciate his support and sense of community and encourage others to follow his example. In regards to Mr. Wahlstrom’s letter to the editor entitled “Christmas Village leaves him cold” on Sept. 2, I truly believe that Peter’s comments were thoughtful and well intentioned, however, I would offer that a true celebration of diversity should seek to preserve the differences and individuality of all religions and ethnic backgrounds and celebrate them as they exist versus a watered down politically correct version. The local heritage of our area is overwhelmingly Judeo-Christian, and a part of that heritage has been to celebrate Christmas for centuries. It seems that only in America, a melting pot of ethnic diversity are the majority expected to change their beliefs to be more inclusive and that other ethnic groups are encouraged to celebrate their heritage as it exists. On a recent trip to Mexico my wife and I chose to participate in a local religious festival. It was an experience that was totally enjoyable and one we will not soon forget. It was traditional, genuine and we would not have asked or expected them to change anything to accommodate our participation. We were welcomed with open arms to celebrate their heritage as it exists with them. We did so willingly and came away with a better understanding and appreciation of their culture. The Christmas Village title is historically accurate and reflective of the local heritage. With that in mind, The Historic Downtown Isanti Revitalization Committee cordially invites and welcomes with open arms members of all ethnic persuasions and religions to come and learn about our local heritage and celebrate one of this great country’s national holidays, “Christmas.” Jaysen Guthmueller, Chairperson Historic Downtown Isanti Revitalization Comm.