The Australian Christian Lobby today called on the City of Perth Commissioners to reverse their decision to cancel the popular Christmas Nativity Event.
“Commissioner Hammond’s claim on weekend television that the Nativity Event was ‘not all inclusive’ is laughable,” said ACL WA Director Peter Abetz. “The Nativity Event has consistently drawn large crowds, including people with or without strong faith. With 52 per cent of Australia’s population identifying as Christian, cancelling the Nativity is not inclusive! The Nativity Event has a cast of over 100 local singers and actors and has been a highlight in the Perth events calendar for 23 years. Christmas is part of Western Australia’s cultural heritage and should continue to be celebrated.”
“Replacing the popular Nativity Event with concerts is not acceptable, as shown by the over 4,500 signatories to the change.org petition calling for the event to be reinstated.”
The ACL acknowledges that the Commissioners want to encourage Christmas shoppers towards the City’s struggling retailers as they recover from the COVID-19 downturn. However, the City could relocate the Nativity Event back to Forrest Place and run it three times over the week leading up to Christmas. This will support tradition and business.
ENDS
