My Momma Told Me The Ghost of Episodes Past: The War on Christmas
Dec 23, 2025
Al Jackson, a comedian and media personality, joins to delve into the cultural shifts surrounding holidays. He argues that Kwanzaa may gain traction among younger generations as they seek new traditions. The conversation navigates how social media affects children's excitement for Christmas and raises concerns about the risk of commodifying Black holidays like Kwanzaa. The discussion also explores parallels with the rapid mainstreaming of Juneteenth and whether this trend brings positive recognition or dilutes the significance of cultural celebrations.
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War On Christmas Is Largely Symbolic
- The "war on Christmas" is mostly reactionary and rooted in fear about cultural change rather than a real decline in celebration.
- David Gborie argues Christmas remains dominant, with 80% of households still celebrating it.
Holiday Complaints Reflect Broader Anxiety
- Fears about holiday change reflect anxiety over America's shifting values and demographics.
- Langston Kerman frames the complaint as worry that the nation no longer reflects its claimed founding values.
Personal Kwanzaa Origin Story
- Al Jackson shares his mother's attempt to introduce Kwanzaa in 1986 to kids who didn't connect with it.
- He observes his own children and TikTok culture could make Kwanzaa appealing to younger generations.