Girl Guides told not to participate in Ottawa-area Santa Claus Parade due to secularism policy

The Kanata Santa Claus Parade in the west end of Ottawa is making its comeback this year, but one group will not be participating because of its secularism policy.

Kanata South Coun. Allan Hubley said he reached out to several community groups to let them know the parade was returning and to invite them to participate, but the local Girl Guides replied to say they would not be coming.

https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/girl-guides-told-not-to-participate-in-ottawa-area-santa-claus-parade-due-to-secularism-policy-1.6613521

Santa Clause (now Secular)

Excerpts

While both name and attire—a version of the traditional dress of bishop—of Santa Claus reveal his Christian roots, and his role of querying children about their past behaviour replicates that of St. Nicholas, he is seen as a secular figure.

Since the early 20th century, Christmas has also been a secular family holiday, observed by Christians and non-Christians alike, devoid of Christian elements, and marked by an increasingly elaborate exchange of gifts. In this secular Christmas celebration, a mythical figure named Santa Claus plays the pivotal role.

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christmas