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November 29, 2005
Stunning annoucement from Israel
JERUSALEM (Reumers) - In another stunning move since his announcement to leave Likud, Israeli PM Ariel Sharon has delivered a speech signaling a sea change in Israeli culture and a new move towards diversity, tolerance and multiculturalism.
Sharon has staked out the popular Jewish holiday Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, as a point issue in moving the ostensible "Jewish" state into Western norms of secularism. He has proposed that the Israel public square be more inclusive towards non-Jewish members. Sharon has announced that he will introduce legislation to make all public displays of the traditional Menorah more inclusive by renaming them "Holiday Candelabras."
"We must remember," said Sharon as he addressed the Knesset yesterday, "our heritage and history is precious. Each of us is charged with holding it dear in our hearts and home. However, we must turn and embrace all people and their own beliefs. All cultures are equal."
Some Knesset members reacted in shock and not a few were upset. An extreme right-wing member, who asked to remain anonymous, stated, "Sharon has taken leave of his senses. We cannot let such an assault on Israeli culture stand! Do you hear me? It will not stand!
However, other more reasonable members of the Knesset expressed optimism at the move. As one moderate expressed, "Israel is opening a new chapter on the values of multiculturalism. We must be ever mindful of offending others that don't hold our beliefs. I'm sure the sky won't be falling just because we move to make one of joyous holidays more inclusive."
/satire*
*off tag for the satire-impaired
Posted by Darleen at November 29, 2005 12:14 PM
Comments
I think we had this conversation last year. Have I been posting here that long?
I like it when people say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. I like it when the kids sing Jewish songs, Kwanza songs, and Christmas songs at their "holiday party". I like that they call it a holiday party becuase that's what it is, since they celebrate at least three holidays then.
I don't see why anyone would object to someone saying Happy Holiday instead of Merry Christmas.
I also think it is insane to call it a holiday tree or holiday lights (when they really mean Christmas tree and Christmas lights).
Most people I know don't celebrate Christmas as the birthday of Christ, but as the day Santa visits. I only have one friend that is focused on Jesus' birthday.
That's the bigger outrage to me the disgusting materialism and consumerism that has taken over what once was, and to many still is, a sacred holiday. Costco had Christmas junk in their stores the day after Holloween. GROSS.
Posted by: Mieke at November 29, 2005 06:35 PM