Curtin Call

There.  I said it! 

I’ve learned a lot about diversity over the past several years that I
have worked at one of the most prestigious universities in this fine
country.  It’s been some time now since I’ve used the words “Merry
Christmas” – these were replaced long ago by “Happy Holidays”. 
However, now, I find myself asking myself “Why?”

Now, I inquire before ordering food for meetings as to any dietary
restrictions, so that I can be certain to satisfy any requests for
vegetarian, kosher, etc.  I have a sign hanging on my door that
states that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transexual folks “are welcome
here”. 

I work with a very diverse group of folks and am thankful for everyday
that I interact with and learn from them. 

I am accepting of all good folks (bad ones, please stay away!) – regardless of race, religion, sexual preference, etc. 

Which is why, I again, find myself asking “Why?  Why can’t I wish
someone a Merry Christmas?”  That is and always has been a part of
my culture.  How can we expect our future generations to be
diverse and acceptable of all people, regardless of race, religion,
sexual preference, etc when all of a sudden, we are not “allowed” to
use the term “Merry Christmas”?

Nope, I’m not buying it any more!  From now on, when I meet you in
the hallway, or at the mall, or walking down the street, I will wish
you a “Merry Christmas”.  If you do not celebrate that particular
holiday, please do not take offense.  If you celebrate Hannukah,
Kwanza, or any other holiday, please just let me know as I would love
the opportunity to wish you a “Happy Hannukah”, a “Happy
Kwanza” or I’ll just say “Happy _______” and you can fill in the blank!

So, I’ll leave you with this:

“Merry Christmas to all!  And to all, a good night!”