Victoria, Australia, Encourages Schools to Celebrate Christmas as a Religious Holiday

The government of Victoria, Australia, has reminded schools not to ban Christmas, and, indeed, religious celebrations, including school Nativity plays and Christmas carols, are being encouraged. This comes after some schools banned Christmas observances last year out of fear of offending non-Christians.

Premier Steve Bracks, saying he wanted to encourage religious tolerance, said: "All schools and kindergartens should be able to have nativity plays and Christian celebrations. Those who don't wish to participate don't have to, and those who wish to celebrate in their own way can do so. But even those from other faiths, of course, accept Christian celebrations and the Government is keen to ensure there are no bans on any of these sorts of activities."

How completely refreshing! It would be wonderful if Americans could emulate this attitude and remember we are guaranteed freedom of religion, not freedom from religion.

Cheers to Premier Bracks and the Aussies.