There are countless twentieth century additions to the Massachusetts Christmas tradition including Boston Pops concerts, the unique presentation of Black Nativity, and the lighting of an enormous Christmas Tree on Boston Common. (The tree is a gift from the Province of Nova Scotia, in thanks for support after a tragic explosion in Halifax Harbor during World War I.)
In our increasingly diverse America all do not celebrate Christmas and it is important to respect other great traditions. As Franklin Roosevelt said during the bleak Christmas of 1941, “Our strongest weapon …is the conviction of the dignity and brotherhood of man, which Christmas Day signifies.” Recognizing a common humanity in a diverse world reflects the true spirit of the holiday.