Santa Banned From Oregon School District Due To Religious Tolerance

SACREMENTO (CBS) -- An Oregon school district is deploying a Santa Claus embargo of sorts in their schools, in a bid to make equal all religious beliefs.

The idea is to be 'respectful and sensitive' to the different religions and beliefs, the Hillsboro School District wrote in an email to the staff, via KATU:

"You may still decorate your door or office if you like, but we ask that you be respectful and sensitive to the diverse perspectives and beliefs of our community and refrain from using religious-themed decorations or images like Santa Claus."

Direct spokeswomen Beth Graser told KATU that it's not as controversial as it's being made out to be.

"It really went out as a notification to staff, not even parents, just to make sure they are being sensitive and thoughtful as they enter the holiday season," Graser said.

The parents are none too pleased, though.

"I'm from that generation where we believe in Santa, and my kids believe in Santa, and they should be able to celebrate it," a parent said, via Fox 2 St. Louis.

Another parent doesn't see what's wrong with Santa being on display, citing that it's not a direct religious theme.

"If you're going to put a giant cross on the window that's one thing, but I think Santa Claus is more folklore and American history than a religious symbol at this point," Jason Ramirez, another parent, said.

Hillsboro isn't the only district in Oregon with the policy.