The Editor,
Christmas is a universal celebration. Unfortunately, during the past few years, the political correctness has dampened this celebration somewhat. We celebrate other festivals like Diwali, Chinese New Year, Eid, Nav Roz, Rosh Hashanah and Vaisakhi with a great deal of enthusiasm regardless of our faith, culture and background.
However, when it comes to Christmas it is "Happy Holidays." Why not "Merry Christmas" as has been the custom for a long time? At Christmas, my family and I put up the Christmas tree, buy gifts for our children and grandchildren, light up our front yard with a great deal of enthusiasm. Also, it gives me a great deal of pleasure to wish others - Christians and non-Christians - "Merry Christmas."
Canada is an excellent model of multiculturalism. It is home to more than 200 communities representing every corner of the world. Not only that, Canada is also a multilingual country with more than 200 languages being spoken from coast to coast to coast. Both of these attributes are Canada's greatest strengths. Let's remember that both multiculturalism and multilingualism flourish in an inclusive not an exclusive environment. As such, we must retain the importance of Christmas to the broader community. Celebrations like these act like a glue that binds us all together as Canadians.
Merry Christmas!
Balwant Sanghera Richmond
