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Debate over Merry Christmas bus messages in Saskatoon still not settled

SASKATOON – An ongoing debate about bus electronic displays declaring “Merry Christmas” has been bounced back to the mayor and councillors at Saskatoon city hall.

On Thursday, a cultural diversity and race relations committee announced it could not decide on a recommendation about the matter.

Committee vice-chairman Michael San Miguel says there are valid points on both sides of the argument.

Ashu Solo filed a complaint in December after seeing a bus with the message “Merry Christmas” on the side.

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Solo says the message violates the separation of state and religion.

He had threatened to file a human rights complaint if the city didn’t stop putting “Merry Christmas” on the buses.

After Thursday’s meeting, Solo was disappointed the committee didn’t solve the issue or make any recommendations.

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“Seems like they just copped out and didn’t make a decision and they’re leaving it up to the executive committee,” Solo said.

“I wish they would have at least come up with a recommendation.”

Solo said he’d be happy with the message “Happy Holidays” because that would “include the Winter Solstice, Festivus, New Year’s Day and Kwanza.”

Festivus is a fictional holiday – originating on the television show “Seinfeld” – which celebrates “the airing of grievances and feats of strength.”

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