As we approach the end of the year, many workplaces and communities start planning gatherings to bring people together. Some call them "winter parties" or "festive get-togethers," avoiding the term Christmas party. The intention is often to be inclusive, but I can’t help questioning the logic behind this decision—and the wider implications for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). What also concerns me is the disconnect between some EDI professionals and many people in workplaces who want a Christmas party and feel like their traditions and festivals are being eroded.
After all, the only reason we’re having these celebrations at this time of year is Christmas. It's not winter that inspires tree decorating, mince pies, and gift-giving, nor is it the vague "festive season." It's Christmas. So why is the word itself becoming taboo?
Why Delete Christmas but Not Ramadan or Hannukah?
Let’s imagine a similar scenario with other cultural or religious celebrations. Ramadan, Hannukah, or Diwali aren’t stripped of their names to make everyone feel included. Instead, we embrace their names and meaning while extending an open invitation to join in the celebration or learn about them. Why should Christmas be any different?
When we remove the name "Christmas" from parties, we’re not creating inclusivity—we’re erasing the origin of the event entirely. It’s worth asking: is this approach about inclusivity, or is it about avoiding the discomfort some might feel at acknowledging a tradition that, while rooted in Christianity, has long since expanded into a cultural celebration shared by people of all beliefs—or none?
A Missed Opportunity for True Inclusion
EDI work is, at its heart, about celebrating differences. That includes recognising and respecting traditions held by the majority, not just those of minority groups. Excluding the word Christmas sends a troubling message: it suggests we’re comfortable celebrating minority differences but hesitant when it comes to the majority. Surely true inclusion should make space for everyone?
I also see this worrying trend in schools. An increasing number of schools are afraid to call the kids Christmas party what it is, but throughout the year have many other festival celebrations, using their actual name. Why is there such fear of the word Christmas?
What’s more, Christmas itself isn’t as exclusive as some might think. Many of my Muslim and Sikh friends happily celebrate Christmas—not as a religious festival, but as a time for family, giving, and community. It’s already a flexible tradition, open to interpretation and participation in ways that suit individual beliefs and preferences.
This type of EDI work also risks doing more harm than good. By focusing on pedantic changes—like erasing the word Christmas—we risk fuelling a backlash that undermines the very purpose of EDI. People may feel that their traditions are being disrespected or erased, leading to resentment and division. Worse still, it can make people dismiss all EDI work as unnecessary or overly political, when in reality, it is about fairness, understanding, and celebrating diversity. Pedantic measures like these give detractors ammunition to argue that EDI work is out of touch, alienating the very people it aims to engage.
I hear from an increasing number of people who are afraid to speak up about these things because they feel that EDI is causing a world where difference is not allowed and that their traditions are less respected over minority groups. There is also the issue of Christmas parties not being allowed in venues with alcohol. Whether you agree with it or not, many people like a drink at their Christmas party, and why should their opinions not be respected? As long as there are opportunities throughout the year for social events that don't involve alcohol, why should one party not be in a pub or venue that sells alcohol.
How to Make Christmas Parties Inclusive
Instead of scrubbing away the word Christmas, why not focus on making the celebration more inclusive?
Call it a Christmas party but make clear that everyone is welcome, regardless of faith or background.
Offer diverse catering options to ensure dietary preferences and restrictions are accommodated.
Take into account those who do not drink alcohol by providing a variety of non-alcoholic options that feel celebratory and thoughtful, and ensure that other events in the year don't centre around alcohol.
Focus on universal themes like kindness, togetherness, and joy, rather than explicitly religious ones.
Be transparent about the origins of the event, while emphasising it’s about shared celebration, not religious observance.
By making these small adjustments, we can create an environment where everyone feels included without diluting the meaning or origins of the event.
A Closing Thought
At the end of the day, these celebrations aren’t really about Christmas in a religious sense for most people—they’re about taking a moment to connect with colleagues, friends, and family at the close of the year. And that’s a universal idea worth celebrating.
So, whatever your beliefs or traditions, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas season. Let’s celebrate the joy of togetherness, diversity, and yes—difference. 🎄
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