University Of Maine Still Under Attack After Clarifying Christmas Decoration Policy

Reports that the University of Maine banned Christmas decorations sparked a wave of upset alumni, parents, and internet users to visit the college’s website to share their opinions, often using the phrase ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS’ in all caps. The university has now addressed these reports, but the backlash does not appear to have diminished.

WABI reported on Wednesday that the school has removed all Christmas decorations and banned staff and students from displaying any decorations that are specific to a religion, instead allowing only general ‘winter holiday’ decorations. Some staff members mentioned they got an email prohibiting Christmas-themed decorations, and it’s also true that several Christmas trees have recently been taken down from campus.

However, the reason isn’t quite accurate, according to Dean of Students Robert Dana. Dana spoke in a videoed statement (shared below) on Thursday to correct misconceptions and clarify policies.

First, he explained, the disappearance of the trees wasn’t related to the email. The trees are decorated each year during certain fraternity philanthropic efforts, and are taken down at the conclusion. The trees were judged this past weekend, then taken down, as is done each year.

As for the email, he admits that it was overzealous, and says it wasn’t reflective of the University of Maine’s Christmas decoration policy. Instead, it was a well-intentioned response of one advisor who had received complaints about Christmas being more heavily represented on campus than other religious holidays from this season.

The advisor’s response was incorrect, Dana says. The university welcomes Christmas decorations, whether they are religious or secular in nature, and welcomes holiday decor representing other holidays and beliefs as well.

Still, the university’s Facebook page continues to receive an outpouring of anger, oddly juxtaposed with a lot of Christmas wishes:

I’m offended by the University of Maine. Merry Christmas everyone!

What an idiot, giving into the Muslims!!!!!

Merry Christmas! Ashamed of this University!

As an alum this is sad. UMaine to me was an escape of the judgement, the criticizing, the constant need to be approved by everyone. It’s the place where you could be who you are, no matter what, and be accepted. Apparently things have changed. Black Bears love Christmas Trees.

Merry Christmas everybody!!!

Dan Demeritt, a representative of the University, has promised that an email will be sent to all staff and students, making the University of Maine’s Christmas decoration policy clear.