Newest Additions to Melting Pot NOT Melting--The following article appeared in a local high school newspaper:
<<<Tis’ time to embrace all holidays this season
Farrah Munir
Opinion Editor
We wish you a Merry Christmas ... ” wait a second, why don’t you serenade me with a merry Eid, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa? Even though I’m not Jewish, Christian or African American, people should mix it up a little and embrace all the diverse holidays celebrated this season.
During this time of year, not only is it ridiculous and annoying to see hip hop Santa dolls shakin’ it next to stuffed turkeys before Thanksgiving, but stores never think to sell dancing dreidels.
Santa’s special throne has already been established in the center of the mall for tiny tots to sit upon his lap in addition to the myriad of frolicking elves, tawdry trees and Kenny G’s Christmas album blaring in every shop.
Everywhere you go, you will find symbols of Christmas. Why don’t we have Kwanzaa’s symbolic red, green and black colors and designs draping the telephone poles throughout town?
Few people are familiar with Eid. If you read last issue’s feature on Ramadan, you would know that Eid is a celebration after 30 days of fasting.
However, I, along with followers of less recognized religions, witness the ignorance toward our special holidays.
Clubs in our school go Christmas caroling, sell Advent calendars, give presents to less fortunate children and play Christmas songs in band.
Though I enjoy doing all these things, I wish a part of my culture would be recognized and assimilated into America’s culture. After all, the diverse citizens who celebrate other holidays are what makes our country so fascinating.>>> |
