Press Release: The Importance of Representation: Black Santa Spreads Holiday Joy Across the U.S.
DENVER — As the holiday season approaches, one man is highlighting the importance of representation by embodying Santa Claus for children of color across America. George Smithers, a traveling Santa, shares his passion for inclusion during this festive time of year.
Smithers’s journey began years ago when he took his children to see Santa at the mall. His daughter, overwhelmed by the experience, burst into tears upon meeting a Santa who didn’t reflect her background. This moment galvanized him to don the red suit himself. "I told my wife that I was not going to do that ever again. I was going to be Santa for my children, and that’s how we started," Smithers recalled.
Since then, he has traveled nationwide, bringing joy, sharing holiday stories, and creating cherished memories with families. His growing business now requires him to enlist other Santas to cover events, as his schedule takes him from Colorado to Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and beyond.
Smithers emphasizes the significance of representation, noting, "It’s about making people feel like they’re represented, as well as giving them an opportunity to experience someone that looks like them." His dedication goes beyond entertainment; it underscores values of faith, family, and tradition that resonate deeply during the holiday season.
As the countdown to Christmas continues, Smithers remains committed to ensuring every child can experience the magic of Santa in a relatable and meaningful way. His story serves as a reminder of the impact visibility and representation can have in shaping a child’s holiday experience.
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