Nearly any icon is a canvas onto which an individual or group can/will/does project an image of themselves. Always has been, always will be. The less historical and the more mythological the icon, the more likely people will be to paint that icon to reflect themselves and their world-view. I personally don't have any problem with anyone who thinks that a myth "looks kinda like me". It's human nature. Black/Asian/Euro/etc. Santa? Good for you! Especially if your version of Santa is all about generosity, giving and the joy of Christmas.