A local group aiming to sponsor this year’s Milton Santa Claus Parade is voicing its disappointment over what they consider “unfair” treatment from the organizing committee.
Milton Says No, a grassroots organization opposed to the location of CN’s intermodal terminal, started fundraising after discovering that CN would be the main sponsor for the beloved annual event.
A local group aiming to sponsor this year’s Milton Santa Claus Parade is voicing its disappointment over what they consider “unfair” treatment from the organizing committee.
Milton Says No, a grassroots organization opposed to the location of CN’s intermodal terminal, started fundraising after discovering that CN would be the main sponsor for the beloved annual event.
“That was really disappointing to us,” said director Stacey Newman. She noted that events like the Milton Fall Fair and Canada Day have previously declined CN’s funding. “We understand that putting on these events requires sponsorship and can be expensive. So instead of creating division in the community, which we absolutely want to avoid, we decided to offer to replace CN’s sponsorship.”
The group has proposed an alternative by seeking co-title sponsorship and has submitted an application for a platinum sponsorship, which involves a $2,000 donation. So far, their GoFundMe campaign has raised about $1,300, and Newman and her husband have pledged to cover any remaining costs.
However, the group claims they have not received any acknowledgment from the parade committee.
“They’re effectively ignoring us,” Newman explained, mentioning their attempts to reach out via email, phone, and Facebook. “It’s very disappointing and frustrating.”
In response to inquiries from MiltonToday, the parade committee stated they have “established a clear policy prohibiting any political affiliations, campaigning, or displays during the event.”
“This rule is in place to maintain the festive, joyful, and inclusive spirit that the parade represents, ensuring that the focus remains on celebrating the holiday season with the entire community. By keeping the parade non-political, organizers aim to create an environment where participants and spectators can come together without division or controversy.”
The committee also noted that CN has sponsored the parade for over 20 years, suggesting that Milton Says No was turning the event into a political issue, which they do not intend to engage with.
Newman countered that the parade has already become politicized by accepting sponsorship from a company involved in legal disputes with the community.
“That’s just the reality of it,” she said.
Despite their frustrations, the group has no plans to disrupt the parade.
“We just want to create awareness,” Newman stated. “We’ll be there handing out candy canes and promoting community spirit.”
While Milton Says No members do not wish to criticize the parade committee, Newman believes they deserve an equal opportunity to sponsor the event.
“I think it’s only fair to allow us to be a sponsor as well.”
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