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The city of Saskatoon is facing the possibility of a human rights complaint after it refused to yank the “Merry Christmas” message from the top of its buses despite allegations of discrimination.

On Monday, local activist Ashu Solo vowed to take the matter to the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, claiming the Christmas greetings violate his right to be free from religion.

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He said the salutation also favours Christianity over other religions, which is particularly problematic for Saskatoon’s immigrant community, many of whom rely on bus service.

“Christmas messages on Saskatoon Transit buses make them feel like they need to convert to Christianity to be first-class citizens,” he wrote in a complaint.

A forcible attempt at Christian indoctrination

“Therefore, the Christmas messages on Saskatoon Transit buses are a forcible attempt at Christian indoctrination.”

Ward 9 councillor Tiffany Paulsen said city council didn’t spend more than five minutes coming to the decision to keep the message.