Atlanta, GA (Vocus/PRWEB) December 22, 2009 — What is Christmas all about? This was the basisof a recent assignment given to a group of 2nd grade students at MaxhamElementary in Massachusetts. It is also a subject Jason T. Berggren,author of the controversial book 10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith, has been actively discussing, as is clear in his article Santa vs. Jesus. But the author expressed outrage in a recent critique of school officials at Maxham for their extreme reaction to a student’s completion of the Christmas assignment.

2nd Grader’s Cross Drawing

The Public school officials sent an 8-year-old child home and subjectedhim to a mandatory psychological evaluation for his drawing of JesusChrist on a cross–symbolizing the meaning of Christmas. Although theyclaim the drawing drew their attention due to the depiction ofviolence, Berggren is not convinced.

It is no mystery the cross signifies something important and positiveto those of the Christian faith. Such cultural information and popularreligious folklore should be common knowledge to educators. Forofficials to send the child home and require a psychological evaluationfor such a familiar representation calls into question the judgment andqualifications of those involved.

Berggren holds that this is likely a case of political correctness gone overboard, more than it is concern for the child.

“The truly insidious side to political correctness is that it’s alwaysdone under the guise of help, concern, tolerance, and diversity. Butthe truth is, it is often sanctioned intolerance and forced uniformity.This sure didn’t help anyone. And any reasonable and quick common senseassessment of the situation would surely reveal a lack of concern forthe child and his family,” wrote Berggren in his statement.

The author alleges the reaction may also be a borderline violation ofthe child’s First Amendment Rights. He hopes the family will file acomplaint. A reprimand of school officials followed by a formal apologyis certainly in order. Berggren believes such a gesture of respect andcontrition would go a long way toward easing tensions and futureconcerns for this child and family.

To learn more about the author, his book, or see his ABC News interviews visit 10thingsihate.com.

Contact:
Jason T. Berggren
770-828-8198

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