Portland's Christmas Tree Renaming Sparks Traditionalist Backlash
The city of Portland has ignited significant controversy after officials referred to the traditional Christmas tree in Pioneer Courthouse Square simply as 'the tree' during this year's annual lighting ceremony. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from conservatives who accuse the city of pursuing woke inclusivity at the expense of Christmas tradition and spirit.
During Saturday night's ceremony, which attracted thousands of residents to the city's main square, city council member Candace Avalos celebrated by singing holiday songs alongside protesters demonstrating against the local Starbucks. The event took an unexpected political turn when a Muslim woman waving a Palestinian flag was given platform time.
Political Protest Overshadows Seasonal Celebration
The woman used her moment to declare: 'There's a full blown genocide happening, live streaming in 4k. This is the perfect time to bring this up. There are a lot of genocides going on.' She attempted to lead the crowd in a 'Free, Free Palestine' chant, which received only a muted response from attendees before she transitioned to leading them in song.
Despite the controversy, traditional elements remained part of the celebration. Santa Claus made an appearance, interacting with families and ultimately 'flipping the switch' to illuminate the tree with its approximately 10,000 light bulbs. The event maintained its family-friendly atmosphere despite the political interruptions.
Online critics were quick to voice their displeasure. One attendee noted: 'They can't bring themselves to say the word "Christmas".' After traveling to see the tree, he observed a sign simply labeling it 'the tree' and declared: 'Friends, I'm reclaiming this tree and it is HEREBY the Portland CHRISTMAS Tree.'
Homelessness Crisis Deepens as City Faces Scrutiny
The tree controversy comes as Portland confronts mounting criticism over its handling of multiple urban crises. According to a recent Portland State University report, homelessness in the tri-county area has surged to 12,034 people, representing a staggering 61 percent increase from 2023 levels across Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties.
Mayor Keith Wilson used the ceremony to announce that Pioneer Courthouse Square will host a New Year's Eve drone show, describing it as 'a new downtown Portland tradition.' However, his administration has been actively grappling with the homelessness emergency, having sent a mass email to 17,000 residents in September begging for help through donations of time, money and household items.
In his plea, Mayor Wilson expressed concern that if the community didn't address the problem, Donald Trump might intervene with federal force. 'Recent events in Washington, D.C. show us what will happen to Portland if we don't move with speed, purpose, and compassion to address the humanitarian crisis on our streets,' he warned, referencing Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to Portland in September.
The city's policy decisions have faced additional scrutiny following proposals from lawmakers like Councilor Angelita Morillo, who suggested cutting approximately $4.3 million from the Impact Reduction Program that helps homeless populations to instead support refugees. The program, launched in July, specifically assists unhoused people in the Democrat-run sanctuary city through site cleaning and support services.
As Portland navigates these complex challenges, the controversy over the Christmas tree naming reflects broader tensions between progressive inclusivity initiatives and traditional community expectations, all while the city struggles with practical governance issues affecting thousands of residents.
