It has become clear to me, and this post confirms it, that the
Christmas tree sends a strong "Christian" signal to non-Christians.
However, I share the experience of some of the other writers, that
for many Christians, the tree is the symbol of pagan (Northern European
pre-Christian) celebrations and today it is the symbol of secular
consumerism presently linked to the holidays. In respect for wanting
everyone to be equally welcomed and included at our institution, we
can do without trees, but it does raise an interesting dilemma about
who gets to define the significance of a symbol.  Mary Day Kent
University of Pennsylvania Museum, Philadelphia, Pa. USA



>I don't care WHAT the origin of the Chirstmas tree is or how many
>centuries back dates the tradition of decorating trees.
>The fact is that in 1998, in this country, this tree symbolizes
>Christmas!
>If i walked into a public building and saw a cross hanging on the wall,
>the explanation that the Christian cross was derived from an ancient
>Egyptian symbol is irrelevant.  it has a definite meaning today and is
>unmistakable and instantly recognized the minute it is seen by anyone
>born in this country.
>
>Allison Weiss
>
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