A Melbourne council has been criticized for removing the word 'Christmas' from its festive lyrics in a bid to be more inclusive.
Stonnington Council in Melbourne's south-east has been criticized for using the slogan 'Make Merry' instead of the traditional 'Merry Christmas' on green and red signs dotted around the area.
The decision has led to mixed reactions from locals, with one angry resident going so far as to graffiti the word 'Christmas' on one of the signs.
A petition calling on the city to reinstall the signs has almost 100 signatures.
It has been argued that the words 'Make Merry' 'risk diluting the unique cultural heritage associated with these holidays'.
Stonnington Council in Melbourne's south-east has been criticized for its decision to use the words 'Make Merry' instead of the traditional 'Merry Christmas' on decorations
“While we appreciate the efforts to promote inclusivity, we believe this change may inadvertently diminish the cultural and religious significance of Christmas for many residents,” the petition said.
Journalist Nick McCallum labeled the move “absolute poppycock” and accused the Stonington Council of being both a “grinch” and an “outlier.”
“The great thing about Christmas is that it is inherently inclusive, so rather than excluding the word 'Christmas', why not include the inclusive messages: Merry Christmas, peace and goodwill to all,” he told Sunrise on Friday.
“Whether it is the Jewish faith, the Islamic faith or the Hindu faith, they are in no way offended by the word Christmas and in fact many churches welcome people of other faiths into church to celebrate Christmas.”
Commentator Cath Webber said the use of the words Make Merry was an “Australian version of trying to tone it down and be inclusive.”
“It doesn't really make any sense,” she said.
Stonington Council has since hit back, saying it was 'disappointed' that the festive decorations had been vandalized and that it had supported Christmas through other events.
Stonington Council has since hit back, saying it was 'disappointed' that the festive decorations had been vandalized.
“These decorations are for the enjoyment of all community members, residents and visitors to Stonington,” the city said in a statement.
'The 'Make Merry' campaign was developed in response to feedback from residents and businesses who expressed the need for an inclusive way to recognize the various celebrations in December.
“While we understand that some residents may have differing opinions about the wording on the decorations, property vandalism is unacceptable.”
The council said it was endorsing Christmas through other local events.
'The motifs on the design are symbols related to the celebration of Christmas. The Council also organizes two carol events, celebrates Christmas in our libraries and has Christmas trees in high-profile locations, including the 12-metre tree in Prahran Square,” the council said.
The Stonnington LGA covers some of Melbourne's most affluent suburbs, including Toorak, Windsor, Malvern and Prahran.