American customs and traditions in our schools are being compromised due to diveristy in public schools. Why?

Question

My daughters attend public school in upsate NY. Yes, we are a diverse nation. They learn about Channukah and Kwaansa, but not Christmas. Our Christmas celebration is now the Winter Festival. I do not have anything against our children learning the customs of their classmates, however I also believe that they should learn our customs and belief systoms.

Answer 1

Do your children not know about Christmas? I find that hard to believe. It is impossible to live in this country and not know about Christmas.

If they do know, why are you complaining? it sounds like they would not learn anything new if they were taught about it in school. Why would you want the educational system wasting their time teaching them something they already know?

I grew up going to Catholic Schools. When I graduated, I knew absolutely nothing about religious ceremonies of other cultures. I sure wish I had the kind of education that your children are getting.

Answer 2

I agree with you in that they should learn about your customs and beliefs as well, but since they are getting schooled in America (by choice or force) it is only logical that they would get exposed to other customs and traditions. After all, America is the melting pot of culture. There is no such thing as 'the original American way.' American customs are modified and mixed versions of customs from other cultures. Also, to bring legality into consideration, we are expected to recognize the first Amendment. Any religion can be practiced, and this might come into conflict with some parents. I know this for a fact since some parents are having issues with their children using the word "God" while saying the pledge in school.

Answer 3

There's nothing you can do since it is public school. You're absolutely right that they should learn your customs and beliefs but as a law the public schools can't teach that. So unless you go to a private school or homeschool, your kid won't learn that. I admit it's kind of weird to learn about Kwaansa and Channukah but not Christmas but hey I guess they're trying to make everybody happy...Just teach your kid at home I guess. I went to a Catholic school and I didn't learn about Kwaansa and Channukah and I had to research that on my own in order not to be completely ignorant, so consider your kid blessed to be learning about people different from them.

Answer 4

i dont know about all this, but if i hear any more non christians calling the christmas tree the holiday tree, i am going to start calling the menora, santa sticks!!!! Either call it what it what its proper name is or everyone should have the right to change holidays. I mean the winter festival instead of Christmas is just plain wrong, it seems like the last step to completely take away the christianity aspect of the holiday (besides the commercialization).

Answer 5

There are no laws or amendments that specify or protect any particular cultural tradition. Therefore, no such tradition can be said to be right (or wrong) to be taught in schools legally or technically. Unfortunately, what's taught or not taught is left up to whomever happens to be on the school board at the time, which is rarely held accountable for decisions.

Answer 6

it started when the influx of non-christian immigrants became vocal in local school districts. they were offended by having to participate in something not allowed by there religion. and then began to roll accross the nation. often school districts and or parents never even fought the issue just went along with all the others. we cannot allow this to continue tho. some parents and districts have only begun to fight.

Answer 7

the government has begun treating other traditions with more respect than christianity in the public schools. they have pointed their gun at the christian tradition. whether or not you're a christian, it doesn't bode well for your future. eventually they'll point the gun at us all.

Answer 8

i don't know