Rep. Lewis Calls For Restoration of Christmas Trees at UNC
Rep. David Lewis (R-Harnett) called upon University of North Carolina Chancellor Holden Thorpe to reverse a decision banning Christmas Trees from the University Libraries.
Sarah Michalak, the university's associate provost for university libraries, banned the trees which have stood in the lobby areas of Wilson and Davis libraries each December for decades.
Rep. Lewis wrote Chancellor Thorpe to express his “sincere disappointment in the University’s decision to not display Christmas trees in the Halls of Wilson and Davis Libraries.”
Lewis added: “In a free society- especially university campuses- various expressions of historical, religious, secular, intellectual and all other matters should be welcome-not selectively screened and banned.
Christmas trees threaten no one. Intimidate no one. And hurt no one. Their banishment however, is very hurtful to many. In fact, such acts of silly political correctness only further isolate the university from its supporters and bring embarrassment to the people of North Carolina.
I respectfully ask that the decision of Sarah Michalak, the university's associate provost for university libraries, be overturned and the traditional Christmas trees be displayed. In fact, I will be glad to lead a team of volunteers in putting the trees up if that will be helpful.
I further ask that Michalak be reprimanded for causing such unfavorable and unnecessary attention to befall the University.”
Lewis ended his letter by wishing the Chancellor a Merry Christmas.
Lewis represents the 53rd House District in Harnett County.
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