Neiman Marcus causes controversy by replacing "Christmas" with "Holiday" on the catalog

Neiman Marcus removes Christmas from their holiday catalogPhoto byFlickr screenshot

From coexisting to changing history

Virginia is a diverse state with people of many religions ( or none) who have, more or less, coexisted and respected each other's views and holidays. For decades, the Jewish owner of Barr Brothers Jewelers in Downtown Roanoke wished his customers Merry Christmas.

There was a time when Islamic owners of some Virginia "corner" convenience stores would wear Santa hats and say "Merry Christmas" in the spirit of the season.

Neiman Marcus once offered customers a Christmas catalog, but according to the Washington Times, CEO Geoffroy Van Raemdonck quietly changed it to a "Holiday" catalog this year. Some employees complained, saying they should have been notified beforehand.

Neiman Marcus changed Christmas to HolidayPhoto byJamie StreetonUnsplash

Should Christmas be changed or should nonbelievers not participate?

Several Virginains have given their opinions on the matter. M. Lynn said, "Wake," people are trying to cancel everything older generations enjoy. John R. says Neiman Marcus wants the profits from holiday sales without acknowledging the "Reason for the Seasn."

Elisabeth J. says those who don't believe in the Christ of Christmas should not participate instead of attempting to change things and ruin it for others. The Mirror says Van Raemdonck's move has sparked outrage but suggests there may be some confusion.

The Mirror US reached out to Neiman Marcus for comment. In images obtained by The Mirror US, the cover does not even feature the title "Holiday Book" rather, it is simply titled "A Neiman's Fantasy." Another vast departure from the company's Christmas-heavy imagery is the cover of the new book.