Santa Claus was disinvited from making his traditional appearance Dec. 12 at the
Winter Concert of the Andrew Peabody School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, because of the opposition of at least one parent,
CBS News in Boston reported.
Jennifer Ford, the school's principal, informed parents a day before the concert that Santa had been nixed.
"I am writing to you today to inform you of a change in our concert series this winter. Our First through Fourth grade concert as well as our kindergarten concert will not include a visit from Santa Claus this year," CBS affiliate WBZ TV reported.
Instead, Santa will take part toward the end of a family sing-along on Dec. 23, the principal wrote. That event gives parents who are offended by Santa's presence the opportunity to have their children not take part.
The school describes itself as "
an inclusive community connected by a passion for the pursuit of academic excellence and a commitment to the arts."
Parent reaction to Santa's exclusion was largely negative. "I don't think it's right, and I know a lot of people agree with me," said Robert Thompson. "It seems like that's what's going on in America — the squeaky wheel gets oil. It's a shame," WBZ TV reported.
"Kids like that, it's fun for kids, which is good," said Mohammed Hassan who added that he did not view Santa Claus as a religious icon.
Another parent, Rachel Begley said, "I think that it's a shame we can't all celebrate each other's cultures and Santa is a big part of Christmas-time."
But Himabraya Ashar was more understanding of the decision, saying "We have other ways of exposing our kids to Santa Claus."
Christian authorities identify Santa Claus with
Nicholas, patron saint of children and sailors, who died in the fourth century in Asia Minor.
A multitude of folklore traditions surround Santa. He has also been tied to a German pagan character who made midwinter appearances.
A 1902 children's book by L. Frank Baum, "The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus," made Santa even more popular.
Some Christian believers say the commercialization of Santa Claus actually detracts from the sanctity of Christmas, while atheists complain his presence puts a religious symbol in public places.
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