Humza Yousaf and his party are under fire after a failed SNP candidate, who stood for the Upper Braes Ward of Falkrik Council in 2017, has been accused of trying to “cancel Christmas”.
Falkirk Council’s equalities and human rights officer, Farah Faranza suggested staff substitute the phrase “merry Christmas” for “happy holidays” in a message sent on a council-only platform, but seen by the Scottish Express.
Ms Faranza said the Christmas greeting was a “traditional greeting specifically associated with the Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, that is “commonly used among those who observe Christmas and its religious significance”.
Alternatively, she believed “happy holidays” was a “more inclusive greeting that acknowledges and embraces the various holidays celebrated around the same time, such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and others.”
Ms Faranza insisted her message was “not an insult to Christmas”, but believed the term was a “more inclusive and considerate choice”.
When staff questioned her comments, as reported in the Scottish Daily Express, Ms Faranza explained: “People may disagree with what I have to say, however, what we must always remember in all of our interactions, is to treat each other with dignity and respect.”
Falkirk Council said they stood behind their employee. A spokesman said: “Falkirk Council promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging our employees to consider more inclusive language supports the Council to make sure we are meeting the needs of everyone in our communities.”
It added: “A number of employees also shared their opinions and that is to be welcomed as part of a wider discussion.”
Ms Faranza stood for the Upper Braes Ward in 2017 but lost out. She was employed as Falkirk’s equalities officer – which comes with a salary of between £40,783 and £44,140 – last year.
Stephen Kerr, Scottish Conservative MSP for Central Scotland, blasted Humza Yousaf’s party, saying: “The SNP are wasting taxpayers’ money on hiring people to try to police the language people use. When Falkirk Council is considering closing school swimming pools, recreation centres, and community halls, how can it be right for the council to employ people who tell people not to use the word ‘Christmas’?”
Stephen Kerr added: “Rather than try and make 1984 a reality, the SNP should get back to basics and properly fund the services that actually improve people’s lives.”
The 2019 population of Falkirk is 160,560, and the SNP currently leads a minority administration at Falkirk Council.
