[Byrns]

Originally Posted by Devils'Advocate

Well, as I said earlier, my belief is that government should be all or nothing. If they are going to teach one religion in public school they should teach all religions in public school. If they are going to promote one religion's holiday, they should promote all religion's holidays. Nobody, not even this guy on the fringe is suggesting that people not be allowed to enjoy Christmas with their PRIVATE funds.

And again, this isn't about people saying "Merry Christmas" or people who are ridiculously offended by someone saying that to them. It's the use within public institutions. Or even within the workplace.

Here is an example. On Dec. 24th my division of 150 people are having a potluck brunch at work. We are an IT shop and my team is a prime example of Canadian multiculturalism; I'm the *ONLY* 2nd generation Canadian in a team of 14. We have 2 Sri Lankans, 2 Indians, 2 who immigrated from China, a Korean, 2 from Greece, one from Romania, a Somali and myself. And we all get along together perfectly fine. Different religions, different values, different customs, different cultural beliefs... but we all share and learn from each other and work extremely well together. Now, I was asked by a superior if I, as head of the social committee for our division, would organize the "Christmas Brunch" this year. I said I would organize the brunch, but I was going to call it the "Holiday Festivities Brunch". I think it would be disrespectful to my team to thank them for all the hard work they have done this year to have an event named for a Christian holiday when most of my team is not Christian. She was adamant that I had to call it a Christmas Brunch because "these people shouldn't come here and ruin my holiday!". I don't think having an inclusive celebration should "ruin your holiday".

Have you asked any of your colleagues if they are offended if someone wishes them a Merry Christmas? I'm genuinely curious.

I know if I lived in China it wouldn't bother me if someone wished me a happy Chinese New Year. Would you be offended if one of your Indian colleagues wished you a happy Diwali?