Museum Proposes Radical Changes to Santa Claus Image

Brighton and Hove Museums has introduced a controversial guide aiming to “decolonise” the figure of Father Christmas, arguing that he embodies outdated notions of being “too white and too male.” The museum’s proposal, presented through a blog post by its Joint Head of Culture Change, Simone LaCorbinière, suggests significant alterations to the traditional representation of Santa Claus.

The guide claims that the character of Santa perpetuates colonial attitudes by judging children’s behavior through the lens of a “naughty and nice” list. According to the museum, this portrayal implies that a singular, white, Western figure holds the authority to evaluate children globally, reinforcing the idea that “the coloniser has the power to judge all people.”

LaCorbinière’s post argues for a reimagined Santa who collaborates with his elves on the production line of gifts, emphasizing equality and teamwork. She advocates for stories that depict Santa learning about diverse cultures rather than passing judgment on them. “Have Santa learn about different cultures rather than judge them,” she states, suggesting that narratives could showcase him experiencing various traditions.

In addition to these changes, LaCorbinière proposes incorporating “Mother Christmases” into the Santa narrative, asserting that “patriarchy and colonialism went hand in hand.” This recommendation is part of a broader initiative by the museum, which received £900,000 in taxpayer funding in October 2023, to promote inclusivity and diversity in cultural representations.

The museum’s approach has drawn criticism from some quarters. Senior Tory MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke expressed his disapproval, stating that during a season usually filled with goodwill, this initiative appears to detract from festive cheer. He described the effort as a misuse of taxpayer funds, suggesting it prioritizes progressive ideologies over traditional festive values.

As the debate surrounding the portrayal of Santa Claus continues, Brighton and Hove Museums stands firm in its commitment to fostering a more inclusive representation of cultural icons. The museum’s guide raises important questions about the evolving nature of traditions and the impact of cultural representation on public perception.