Arkansas Governor Stands Firm on Christmas Celebration
Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is defending her decision to close state offices on December 26th, giving state employees a longer Christmas holiday. The move, intended to allow families more time together during the Christmas season, drew criticism from the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), a group that advocates for a strict separation of church and state.
The FFRF sent a letter to Governor Sanders arguing that closing state offices for Christmas was unconstitutional.
Governor Sanders responded with a firm letter of her own. She stated that Christmas is, at its heart, a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the true meaning of the holiday.
She further noted the irony of the FFRF’s claim that she was alienating non-Christian constituents. She had just attended a Menorah lighting ceremony with people from across Arkansas. Governor Sanders believes celebrating faith traditions is essential for making the state’s diverse religious communities feel valued and included.
Governor Sanders explained that her Christmas proclamation was not meant to force Christian beliefs on anyone. She wanted to highlight the humility of Christ’s birth. She hopes all people can find joy and meaning during the Christmas season.
