Gloria Whitebell
Research Mentor(s): Jeffrey Veidlinger
Mentor Department: Raoul Wallenberg Institute/History/Judaic Studies
Authors:
Session: Session 5 (2:00pm – 2:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 4
Abstract
In 1990, the Avonworth School District in Ohio Township faced a series of challenges from the Mount Nebo Presbyterian Church about the celebration of Halloween in schools. The Church raised concerns that Halloween festivities, including costumes, decorations, and classroom activities promote Satanism. Members of the school board were split, some agreeing about the Satanic and Pagan overtones of Halloween celebrations, while others cite school festivities as harmless holiday fun. The debate quickly gained attention from the local community, with parents, teachers, and religious leaders voicing strong opinions on both sides. Supporters of Halloween celebrations argued that the activities fostered creativity, community spirit, and childhood joy, while opponents insisted that the district was endorsing practices contrary to Christian teachings. Looking at the differing sides of this controversy can help reveal the impacts of Halloween celebrations in school and the two opposing sides to many holiday and school dilemmas. This argument fleshes out the ideas of secular holidays, non-secular/religious holidays, and how these should be treated differently in school. Is Halloween still a religious holiday? As it does have its roots in paganism, celtic celebrations, and Christianity. Or has it lost all of its religious context and become truly a secular holiday that should be celebrated in public schools without controversy?
