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Christmas wars, a.k.a.
the "December Dilemma"

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What is this?

A Christmas tree? (Christianity)
A Hanukkah bush? (Judaism)
A Yule tree? (Wiccan)
A Winter Solstice tree (Atheist)
An excessively-decorated Festivus tree (Secular)
or all of the above, plus many more by followers of other religions?

Background:

The religious makeup of the U.S. is in a state of flux as the percentage of adults who are adherents of non-Christian religions and secularism increase.

With Christianity losing is preeminent position in North America:

	Some Christians believe that the only recognized seasonal day of celebration in December should be Christmas, to the exclusion of all others. They would like retail store employees to continue to wish their customers a "Merry Christmas" as they had in years past.
	Other Christians, followers of other religions and secularists note the increasing diversity of beliefs in America. They would prefer an inclusive greeting, like "Happy Holidays" that would imply recognition of Christmas, all the above listed celebrations, and many more.

This is a lose-lose situation for U.S. retailers who, above all, do not wish to alienate their customers. Fortunately, the conflict appears to be fading.

Topics covered in this section are:

	Overview of the "Christmas wars"
	The nature of, causes of, and reaction to the "Christmas wars"
	A more detailed introduction to the "wars"
	What do the public and stores feel about the "wars?"
	Causes and possible solutions to the "wars"
	Celebrations near Christmas time: By various religions; by individuals
	What is the original "reason for the season" Why the Church picked DEC-25 for Jesus' birthday
	Brief descriptions of some recent events during the Christmas wars: During 2004 During 2005 More conflicts during 2005 House Resolution 579 to protect Christmas During 2006 During 2007 During 2008
	Reactions to the conflicts by various groups and individuals
	Alternatives to conflict: The Peace Tree Cultural displays at Christmas time

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Copyright © 2004 to 2008 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance
Originally posted: 2004-DEC-04
Latest update and review: 2008-DEC-30
Author: B.A. Robinson

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