Part 5/7:
The changes at Portland’s tree lighting did not go unnoticed beyond local organizers and attendees. Online chatter quickly turned into a national debate, with critics decrying the move to omit Christmas from what, historically, has been a unifying holiday event. Detractors argued that the renaming and the politicization represent an erosion of cultural and religious traditions.
One comment highlighted the irony, pointing out a sign at the event that read "The Tree" instead of "Christmas Tree," emphasizing the move away from religious recognition. The critic remarked, "They can't even say Christmas," underscoring the perceived overreach and the cultural implications of such decisions.