Celebrating cultural diversity
How do you embrace the “Spirit of Christmas” in your home when December arrives? We celebrate Christmas the traditional way — the ways that are traditional to us. Christmas and the holidays are the season of giving… Giving gifts, giving kindness but perhaps most significant is giving time to acknowledge different cultures and the beliefs of others during December and January. So how do we encourage those around us to celebrate cultural diversity during this holiday season?
In a world where there are more than 7.5 billion people, there is a portion that don’t celebrate Christmas. Around 15 per cent in fact. And while you may think it to be an insignificant number, it’s a number nonetheless and one that should be both acknowledged and respected, just as we ask of them.
And it starts with a conversation…
Learn from others
Set aside some time from your usual Christmas run around to learn about another culture’s celebrations during this time. Jump online and search “December Holidays Celebrated around the World”. You’ll be surprised at just how many celebrations take place this month. If Googling things isn’t your thing, visit your local library or bookstore while gift shopping. Or watch a TV special or documentary about other celebrations. Give the gift of knowledge and share your learning with your children… Ask them if they’ve any friends at kindy/preschool/school who might celebrate differently.
Give the gift of knowledge and share your learning with your children… Ask them if they’ve any friends at kindy/preschool/school who might celebrate differently. Use what you discover to carry on the conversation at Christmas parties and at the dinner table with family and friends. You might even find yourself adopting a new tradition these holidays.
Diversity is the one true thing we all have in common, so let’s celebrate.
Make no expectations
Follow our 12 Days of Christmas on Instagram to celebrate cultural diversity and how other countries celebrate Christmas during this time of year. But realise that there are also many people who celebrate a variety of holidays in December and some choose to celebrate none. Christmas may be a holiday you’ve grown up celebrating but not everyone shares the same beliefs and traditions.
If you’re unsure, then just ask people what holidays they celebrate. People are happy to share their story and they will be grateful you’ve taken the time to ask. Let it be an opportunity to learn about different cultures and religions, and the traditions that accompany them.
Give the gift of respect by taking an interest in other people’s traditions and making them feel welcome, whether at home, school or in the office.
Take note
While many of us have adopted the electronic way and use the calendar app in our smartphones, a printed calendar or diary can be handy as they often list holidays celebrated around the world. We live in a multicultural society where so many cultures, beliefs and holidays are celebrated. If you know of friends/family/neighbours/colleagues/parents that celebrate different holidays, mark it in your calendar and address book as a future reminder for when you next send out holiday cards.
Give the gift of awareness and add a personalised handwritten note acknowledging their celebration. Your small gesture will go a long way in your friendship.
In today’s multicultural society, we can begin to sow the seeds of awareness in our children and guide them in embracing the celebration of cultural diversity.
