Blogmas 2024 Day 3: Politics Meets Festivities: The Role of Leadership During the Holidays

The holiday season is often painted as a time for family, reflection, and generosity. Yet, beyond the twinkling lights and festive cheer lies a fascinating intersection of politics and festivities. Leaders around the world often use this time to connect with their communities, launch charity campaigns, and implement policies that leave lasting impacts.

But what happens when politics meets festivities? For better or worse, the actions of political figures during the holidays often set the tone for public sentiment, showcasing the humanity—or lack thereof—behind leadership.

Charity Campaigns: The Spirit of Giving

One of the most common ways political figures engage with the public during the holidays is through charity. Acts of generosity during this season resonate deeply, offering leaders a chance to demonstrate empathy and support for their constituents.

A prime example of this is New York City’s former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was known for promoting the annual “Winter Wishes” campaign. This program connected sponsors with underprivileged children, ensuring they received holiday gifts.

Bloomberg himself frequently participated, personally highlighting the importance of giving back. His involvement showcased leadership that was both visible and personal, fostering goodwill among New Yorkers.

In the UK, former Prime Minister David Cameron launched the “Big Society” initiative during the 2010 general election, encouraging communities to take part in volunteering efforts, especially during the holidays.

While the program faced criticism in its broader implementation, the festive campaigns under this banner often brought communities together, from food bank drives to Christmas carolling events organized by local councils.

Symbolism in Public Celebrations

Public celebrations during the holidays are rife with symbolic gestures. Whether it’s lighting a Christmas tree, attending a Hanukkah menorah ceremony, or delivering a festive address, these moments reflect the cultural values and traditions of a community.

Consider Canada’s long-standing tradition of the Prime Minister participating in the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in particular, has leveraged such events to emphasize inclusivity.

His speeches often acknowledge not just Christmas but other holidays celebrated by Canadians, such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Diwali. This deliberate inclusivity underscores the role of political leadership in fostering unity during the holiday season.

Similarly, the U.S. president’s annual pardoning of a turkey—a light-hearted Thanksgiving tradition—has become a moment of levity amidst often tense political climates. While it may seem trivial, such gestures humanize leaders and offer citizens a moment to connect on a more relatable level.

Policy Changes with Holiday Impacts

The holidays are not just about appearances; they often come with practical governance challenges that require thoughtful policymaking. For example, in 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide faced difficult decisions about holiday restrictions. Balancing public health with the emotional weight of the season tested the mettle of leaders.

In New Zealand, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s empathetic communication style shone as she navigated holiday policies that restricted gatherings to curb the virus. While the decisions were tough, her focus on compassion and clear communication earned widespread public support. Ardern’s approach demonstrated how leadership during the holidays could address challenges while still resonating emotionally.

On a more celebratory note, some governments introduce temporary benefits or bonuses during the festive season. In Germany, for instance, many states provide subsidies for holiday childcare programs, ensuring that working parents have access to affordable services while balancing festive obligations. These policies, though administrative in nature, embody the spirit of giving and care associated with the season.

When Festivities Turn Political

Despite the goodwill associated with the holidays, they’re not immune to controversy. The use of public funds for extravagant holiday displays often sparks debates, as seen in Brazil in 2022 when the government faced backlash for spending millions on Christmas decorations amidst an economic crisis. Critics argued that the money could have been better allocated to social programs, while supporters contended that the displays boosted tourism and morale.

Similarly, debates around the “war on Christmas” have made headlines in the United States, where public officials are often caught in the crossfire between secular inclusivity and traditional religious observance. Former President Donald Trump frequently emphasized saying “Merry Christmas” as part of his broader cultural messaging, drawing both praise and criticism. These moments highlight the delicate balance leaders must strike during the holidays—celebrating the season while navigating its cultural and political sensitivities.

Humanizing Leadership Through Festive Acts

For many citizens, the holidays are a time to see the human side of their leaders. Acts of kindness, participation in community events, and even heartfelt messages can leave lasting impressions.

One particularly poignant example comes from Barack Obama’s presidency. Each year, he and his family volunteered at food banks during Thanksgiving and Christmas, often bringing media attention to the importance of helping others. These images of the first family serving meals resonated deeply, offering a reminder that leadership is about service at its core.

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s practice of sending personalized holiday greetings to world leaders, including messages for Christmas, Eid, and Diwali, reflects an emphasis on building relationships through shared celebrations. Such gestures extend beyond domestic audiences, showcasing how holiday diplomacy can strengthen global ties.

Why Festive Leadership Matters

When leaders embrace the holidays, their actions transcend politics. These moments of connection remind citizens of shared values—generosity, unity, and hope. Whether it’s through charity campaigns, public celebrations, or inclusive policymaking, leadership during the holidays has the power to inspire.

But festive leadership also comes with responsibility. Citizens expect authenticity, and empty gestures are often seen through. True festive leadership lies not in grand displays but in meaningful actions that reflect the spirit of the season.

As the lights twinkle and the world prepares to celebrate, political leaders have a unique opportunity to lead not just with policy but with heart.