LONDON: In a controversial decision, Council leaders in Oxford have decided to replace the word 'Christmas' with 'Winter Light Festival' from this
year's celebrations to make the series of events more "inclusive".
The idea came from the 'Oxford Inspires', a cultural development agency for Oxfordshire, which was set up to promote culture in the area.
But the decision to axe the word has been criticised by religious leaders and locals describing it as "ludicrous".
"This is the one occasion which everyone looks forward to in the year. Christians, Muslims and other religions all look forward to Christmas. I'm angry and very, very disappointed. Christmas is special and we shouldn't ignore it," 'The Observer' quoted Sabir Hussain Mirza, chairman of the Muslim Council of Oxford, as saying.
"Christian people should be offended and 99 per cent of people will be against this. Christmas is part of being British."
Rabbi Eli Bracknell, who teaches at the Jewish Educational Centre, said "It's important to maintain a traditional British Christmas. Anything that waters down traditional culture and Christianity in the UK is not positive for the British identity."
However, Tei Williams, a press officer for the charity, Oxford Inspires, maintained "In Oxfordshire we have Winter Light which is a whole festival spanning two months. Within that will be Christmas carol services."
Deputy leader of the Council Ed Turner said: "There's going to be a Christmas tree, and even if the lights are called something else to me they will be Christmas lights."
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