Zwarte Piet (Black Pete) follows in a long tradition of racist darky icons which gained popularity in the 1840's. It seems that everywhere else in the world the fad wore off before 1950, but it still goes strong in Flandersville. I think its dangerous to racial stereotypes with subserviant roles (Zwarte Piet is Santa's servant) and little children.
Christmas decorations and Saint Nicolas
Photos from Wageningen, November 15, 2008.
