Today Fleetwood-Port Kells MP Nina Grewal rose in the House of Commons to denounce attempts to make Christmas more palatable for non-Christians. The Sikh MP called such attempts at political correctness unnecessary and out-of-step with Canadian values of cultural tolerance and equality.  She asked Canadians to not deprive Christians of their religious holidays – just as we should not deny religious minorities of their celebrations –  and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.

Said Mrs. Grewal:

Mr. Speaker, Canadians are getting ready for the Christmas festivities. It’s time for generosity, giving, and helping the less fortunate. But, Mr. Speaker, the spirit of the season is often bruised by unnecessary political correctness. Attempts are made to ban nativity scenes; holiday trees replace Christmas trees; the 12 days of giving replace the 12 days of Christmas; and reference to “God,” “Christ,” and “the Lord” are cast aside leaving us with just a meaningless, consumer-oriented holiday.

Mr. Speaker, I'm a Sikh and I'm not offended when Christians celebrate Christmas. Rather, I wish my Christian friends a Merry Christmas and they wish me a Happy Gurpurb or Happy Vaisakhi.

Cultural tolerance or ethnic equality should never mean diluting someone's faith. It’s time we move from tolerance to acceptance. We should accept and respect each other’s beliefs. Let's not deprive Christians of Christianity – let’s celebrate it! Merry Christmas everyone!