As we navigate the festive season, the notion that “the real Santa is white” still lingers in the air. I overheard an adult make this claim while shopping for Christmas decorations with my children, prompting a mix of disbelief and frustration within me. The truth is, Santa Claus—whether known as Jolly St. Nick, Kris Kringle, or Father Christmas—can embody a multitude of appearances, and I refuse to endorse the outdated idea that he must be exclusively white.
Growing up, I was surrounded by the traditional image of Santa: a cheerful, white man with twinkling blue eyes. I fondly recall the iconic Coca-Cola commercials and the various Christmas movies that featured this singular representation. In films like Miracle on 34th Street and Elf, the portrayal of Santa was uniformly lacking in diversity—essentially a cookie-cutter version of the same character.
However, everything changed for me when our first child was adopted 11 years ago. She entered our lives as a five-pound black baby girl, complete with a full afro and medium brown skin. That Christmas, as I decorated our tree with a collection of ornaments gifted by a friend—each one showcasing Santa, angels, and children with rich melanin—I felt immense joy. It was essential for me that my daughter knew Santa could resemble her, affirming her place in the holiday magic.
Over the years, we’ve amassed a delightful array of decorations featuring brown-skinned Santa figures, angels, and nativities. Friends and family have joined in our quest for inclusive holiday décor, understanding the importance of representation. Each December, we visit a Black Santa, capturing the joy on our children’s faces when they see him. The most heartwarming moment is when one of them exclaims, “Santa is brown like me.” This joy should be universal, extending beyond our family.
I recognize that some might dismiss my enthusiasm for a Black Santa as excessive. Frequently, I hear arguments against modifying traditional representations—questions about political correctness and the desire to maintain the status quo. Such sentiments often arise from a place of privilege, where whiteness is considered the default. As a white woman, I am aware of how ingrained this perspective is, and I understand the discomfort that comes with challenging these norms.
Historically, the only person of color depicted in Christmas décor was often a single brown wiseman in nativity scenes—a mere token amid a sea of white figures. It’s a stark reminder of how representation has often fallen short. In reality, figures from that era, including Jesus, were people of color. This is a fact that many may not have considered, yet it’s essential for understanding the importance of diverse representation in holiday celebrations.
Now as a parent in a multiracial family, I empathize with the feelings of exclusion experienced by people of color. They deserve to see themselves represented not just in the background but at the forefront of our holiday narratives. Thankfully, incremental changes are occurring in Christmas merchandise. This year, I discovered a variety of Black Santa items at local stores, including wrapping paper and ornaments, which I eagerly shared with my social media followers who also belong to multiracial families.
In addition, many shopping centers now offer both Black and white Santas for visits, reflecting a growing understanding of the need for diversity. It’s about time parents embraced this change, teaching their children that Santa can take on many forms and that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in holiday traditions.
Ultimately, as we celebrate the season, let’s foster an environment that welcomes diversity and inclusivity. Let’s raise our voices against limiting notions of who Santa can be. After all, it’s the spirit of togetherness and joy that truly defines this time of year. If you’re interested in further insights into family dynamics and inclusivity, check out this related blog post here. For more information on fertility resources, visit Make a Mom, an authority on this topic, and explore ASRM for valuable guidance on home insemination.
In summary, embracing diverse representations of Santa enriches the holiday experience for all children, ensuring that everyone can partake in the magic of the season.
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