A primary school within the United Kingdom that faced criticism for cancelling its traditional Easter bonnet parade and church service, has announced plans to proceed celebrating Easter but not at a neighborhood church with a view to ensure “inclusivity.”
The earlier decision by Norwood Primary School in Eastleigh, Hampshire, to cancel its longstanding Easter events had drawn sharp criticism from several quarters, with many viewing it as discriminatory against Christianity.
The Bishop of Southampton, Rhiannon King, told the BBC she and another Christian leaders spoke to the varsity regarding the cancellation of the Easter events.
“The local vicar of Eastleigh Parish Church, the minister of Eastleigh Baptist Church and I even have been in contact with the pinnacle teacher and this has been warmly welcomed,” King was quoted as saying.
“We are encouraged by the pinnacle teacher’s assurance that learning about Christian faith stays embedded firmly within the Religious Education curriculum and by her warm invitation to go in and meet a number of the children in the brand new term — a suggestion we could be delighted to simply accept.”
The school’s headteacher, Stephanie Mander, defended the initial decision as a part of the varsity’s commitment to “inclusivity” and promoting respect for all religious backgrounds.
In a letter to folks, she explained that the adjustments were made “within the spirit of inclusivity and respect for the varied religious beliefs represented in the varsity’s community.”
Among the critics of the varsity’s decision was Suella Braverman, former home secretary and member of Parliament for Hampshire, who described the move as “cultural give up.” Some, nevertheless, dismissed the backlash as overblown, with one parent calling it “a storm in a teacup,” according to the BBC.
In an opinion piece for GB News, Carole Manole wrote, “The whole point about diversity and inclusivity is that it’s meant to have a good time ALL cultures and creeds. And what definitely shouldn’t be allowed are attempts to eradicate the indigenous religion of this country in order to not offend others.”
She asked, how is it that those entrusted with shaping the minds of youngsters fail to comprehend that respect for other religions can’t be promoted by dismissing or attempting to erase one other.
Mander’s letter to the parents was shared in a neighborhood Facebook group.
One commenter questioned whether Christmas celebrations could be the following to be cancelled.
“Is Miss Mander preparing to cancel Christmas as well?” read the comment.
Another person expressed confusion over the choice, stating, “I don’t get it personally. Parents have at all times been given the choice to not attend. The school’s at all times been diverse and accepting of all.”
