Grimlock ♥ Ultra Magnus

Because a school near where she lives is canceling a Christmas play.   Someone she knows, who is seven, was going to be in it.   A Muslim family got offended, and this is a public school.   I've felt all religion should be left out of public school.   In my high school, they sang tons of Christmas song, and tacked on one Chanukah song, and said everyone was represented.   I felt left out, shitty,  a little humiliated that they thought I'd buy that shit, and just plain angry at them for forcing me to listen.  I felt like Christmas was simply being pushed on me. 

Now, I also decorated trees with Christian friends, and loved it - as it was my choice.   Just like holiday ads don't bother me.   If I don't want to hear or see them, I turn off the TV or radio.   I don't feel it should be forced on any kid of another religion however. 

She argues that it's bullshit because they're predominately 'white'.   I grilled her about atheists or Jewish kids, and she said she didn't know, and pretty much shrugged it off, saying she doubted it 'cos the neighborhood was 'lily white'.   

Am I wrong to find it offensive that public schools say they separate religion from education, yet Christmas is somehow exempt?     Or is she right - assuming she's right about the percentage of Christians vs. other - does one kid/family in the class being offended not matter?   (Also assuming he's not being forced to participate in something that isn't representative of his religion.)

Seriously - I'm interested in what you guys have to say.  I can't guarantee I'll change my mind, as I feel pretty strongly about this, but I will listen, and a persuasive argument will sway me.    (Keeping in mind the Christians aren't being censored - they're free to have their play anywhere they want except in the public school.   They can have it at their home, church, whatever.   Arguing that the school has more money?   Why should the parents of other religions foot the bill for a Christmas celebration.   Yeah, I've given this some thought...)