The real war on Christmas

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I was both predictably concerned and pleasantly surprised by Rita Crowell’s recent letter (Voices, Dec. 9th). She used misinformation to advocate for religious coercion but at least left the government out of the process when suggesting a course of action.

Calling the phrase “separation of church and state” a “hoax” Rita claimed that it was “coined” by Justice Hugo Black in the 1900’s. The phrase was actually coined by Thomas Jefferson in 1802 and used favorably by James Madison a few years later: “the industry, and the morality of the Priesthood, and the devotion of the people have been manifestly increased by the total separation of the Church from the State” (Letter to Robert Walsh, March 2, 1819).

Rita did advocate something that I think deserves applause. She suggested that Christians place nativity scenes on their property. We can all practice and advocate for our religious beliefs without insecurely attempting to use the property or obtain the endorsement of the State. The Constitution, thankfully, has left religion to the people. This includes Rita’s right to greet all of our Jewish citizens celebrating Hanukah with a Merry Christmas, if she is so inclined.

Respect and humility invigorates religious interest and freedom more effectively than coercion and arrogance. The force feeding of Christianity to the heathens is the real “war on Christmas.” It is why many of our ancestors left Europe.