Controversy after library leaves Christmas trees out of holiday decorations

By Sharman Sacchetti

Click here for updates on this story

    DEDHAM, Massachusetts (WCVB) — Of all the holiday decorations that can be seen in the Dedham Public Library locations, one seasonal mainstay is controversially missing this year.

There’s a wreath on the front door of the library’s Endicott Branch and other Christmas decorations spread across the front desk and the library’s shelves. Screen savers show snowmen, Hanukkah menorahs and presents.

But there’s no Christmas tree to be found in the library branch.

“I was very sad when I heard the news,” said Kathleen Schortmann, a library patron.

The library’s branch manager posted her disappointment about the decision on social media, writing that she was told not to put up the tree this year because it made some people “uncomfortable” last year. The manager declined an interview request about the issue.

Town officials say the controversy “has quickly evolved into a polarized environment and has led to the harassment and bullying of town employees.”

Meanwhile, there are several Christmas trees on display inside Dedham’s Town Hall and another in the community garden just a few steps away from the library.

“It’s supposed to be happy and jolly,” one man said.

“We come to this library, like, two or three times a week and especially for the kids’ books and we like it. We like the Christmas decorations. We like the holiday decorations. I think it’s nice,” said library patron Olga Babayan.

Some worry that removing the tree from the library is more about being exclusive than inclusive.

“It’s just scary and I worry that it’s precedent-setting that this will start to make other public buildings not display traditional holiday decorations,” Schortmann said.

Full statement from the town of Dedham:

“The Town of Dedham stands in support of all town staff targeted by recent online threats and bullying. Unfortunately, a recent social media post expressing disagreement with the decision to display a holiday tree at the library has quickly evolved into a polarized environment and has led to the harassment and bullying of town employees. We wholeheartedly condemn this behavior as it tears at the fabric of our community and cannot be tolerated.

“We continue to encourage constructive conversations and healthy debates, but because of social media and outside sources, what could have been something of legitimate discourse turned neighbor against neighbor, and has threatened the safety and well-being of community members and staff. This behavior is not a true reflection of our commitment to lead with kindness and civility.

“We have heard from our residents regarding this decision and acknowledge the varied perspectives. Community engagement and public discussion are cornerstones of local government, and we encourage our residents to participate in our open, constructive dialogues.

“We look forward to continued public engagement and for the opportunities to work together toward shared goals. We strive to make Dedham a welcoming community for all, where differences can be celebrated, not attacked.”

Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.