China: Some cities prohibit Christmas activities in schools

China media reported that Wenzhou’s Education Bureau sent a text message to schools decreeing, “No schools may hold Christmas-themed events or celebrations.” The same order went out in Hunan Province and the city of Xian.

In the past at Christmas time, some classes had English teachers organize Christmas celebrations and events. The content usually consisted of students performing programs and giving out snacks. These events usually lasted the length of one class. But this year, after receiving the Education Bureau’s edict, such school events have all been cancelled.

Boxun previously reported that Wenzhou in the past year has been the site of forced demolitions of many churches and church crosses. Christians trying to protect churches have suffered injuries and arrests.