For years, students in Garyville, Louisiana have been ushering in Christmas with a visit to the “Chocolate Santa.” Unfortunately, 2009 will be the year that the Chocolate Santa tradition ends, in a way at least.
Children at St. John’s Child Development Center were given fliers about an upcoming visit from the charitable man, whom has used the Chocolate Santa name for nearly 40 years, to which parents expressed outrage. To them, there was no need for Santa to have a color; children don’t see race.
“Color shouldn’t matter,” said Tonia Marzilla, an angry guardian.
The superintendent of schools checked into the issue and felt that the “statement” made by the flier was one that could not be associated with the school system.
Due to the commotion, St. John’s principal is considering canceling Santa’s visit.
