Image Credit: Facebook
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
The Pride-themed Christmas tree on display at the Gallatin public library has been removed after severe backlash and citizen outcry.
The library’s annual tradition of showcasing approximately two dozen trees sponsored by different organizations went a step too far when they allowed a tree to be decorated with rainbow, transgender, and other LGBT+ themed ornaments.
The tree was representing Nashville in Harmony’s Major Minor Youth Chorus, a musical arts organization created to represent all sexual identities and orientations and create social change, though it was apparently an anonymous parent, not the organization itself, who sponsored the tree.
Nashville in Harmony stated they are “disappointed” by the tree’s removal but reiterated their intentions to, “continue to use our music to build community and create social change in Middle Tennessee.”
Sumner County Mayor John Isbell issued a statement about his order to remove the tree, which came after citizen outrage, claiming the tree had broken the decoration policy by allowing political leanings. “The decision comes after careful consideration of the tree’s association with a political statement, which has raised significant concern with the community and violated the terms of their agreement to place the tree.”
He continued, “I understand that the tree holds value for some, but it has unfortunately become a focal point for political discourse that is not conducive to unity in our community. While I respect and value the diverse views of a few of our citizens, the decision to remove the tree is in the best interest of fostering a positive environment for all our citizens visiting the library.”
Conservative Tennessee activist Robby Starbuck joined the fray when the tree first drew attention, calling upon State Representative William Lamberth and the Sumner County Mayor to take action in a Facebook post.
“Tennesseans will not put up with mockery of the celebration of Christ’s birth with far-left political messaging meant to cause chaos and division. Gallatin is an extremely Cristian, conservative area and they don’t want the values of far-left activists forced on their kids. They can take their leftism back to California where it belongs,” wrote Starbuck.
Comments on the post were mixed, with some decrying Christian “homophobia” towards the LGBT community while others shared excitement over the victory. One woman praised the efforts of moms putting pressure on their local representation, “Conservative moms who reside in Sumner County were actively messaging, emailing, and calling everyone local who we could. Thank you for taking a stand!”
Conservative commentator and radio host Todd Starnes perfectly encapsulated the position of conservative Christians in an article covering the controversy, “Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. And contrary to the Alphabet Activists – the Reason for the Season is not RuPaul.”
Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
One Response
good to know the people are finally fighting back