Santa In, Religious Symbols Out

Yes, Mission Viejo, there will be a Santa Claus at La Paz Road and Chrisanta Drive this year, but there won’t be a Nativity scene, giant menorah or Ramadan display.

City officials say only secular exhibits will be allowed this holiday season because they were “unable to make the corner available to all faiths” wishing to be represented.

Some Muslim leaders found the timing of the decision to end a three-decade-old holiday tradition to be “rather strange,” especially since last year marked the first time in California that the holy month of Ramadan received equal billing with Christmas at some public spaces.

“Because of the timing regarding Sept. 11, we should have more reason to show unity within the diversity,” said Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations office in Anaheim. “I hope we’re not responding to our paranoia or our fears.”

Haitham A. Bundakji, a leader of the Islamic Society of Orange County, also was surprised to see the city do away with religious symbols.

“It’s really sad. After Sept. 11, more people are flocking to churches, mosques and synagogues,” he said. “Removing the religious displays at this time is going to offend quite a few people.”

Assistant City Manager Dennis Wilberg said the decision to discontinue religious displays in favor of a secular one was made by the Mission Viejo Activities Committee. This year, the intersection will feature Santa Claus, a winter wonderland and American flags.