Local group fights to remove CN’s name from Milton Santa Parade

Local residents have fought against CN’s plan to build an intermodal facility in Milton for more than a decade and for one local woman, it’s a battle fought on many fronts.

Stacey Newman heads up a group called Milton Says No, an organization with a single goal – stop the construction of controversial transportation hub on the edge of a large residential area on Milton’s west side.

The latest skirmish is an effort to get CN removed as a platinum sponsor for the annual Milton Santa Claus Parade.

“We noticed CN is a title sponsor for the parade, and we’ve always asked local groups and organizations to not accept money from them,” said Newman. “We think’s it hypocritical of CN to do this in a community that is largely against them.”

Newman said the organizers of the parade haven’t been that communicative with her, but she’s determined to either get CN removed or for Milton Says No to become a co-title sponsor.

To that end, there’s a gofundme set up that has raised $400 of the target $2,500 so far.

Among the public donations are local politicians including Mayor Gord Krantz, town councillor Kristina Tesser and Liberal MP Adam van Koeverden, whose government is the one pushing for the intermodal, a conflict that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Newman.

“I’ve been very critical of Adam as MP, as well as the Liberal government on this issue. He’s supported our cause, claimed to be advocating for us. Stopping the intermodal hub was one of his main campaign issues when he was first trying to get elected. Needless to say, we were devastated and angry when his government approved it.

“Personally, I think his donation is hypocritical and virtue signalling.”

In its fundraising appeal, the group said Milton, “thrives when we stand together, especially during cherished events like the annual Santa Claus Parade. This celebration brings us all together each year and symbolizes our unity.

“We’ve asked the parade organizers to return CN’s sponsorship and the directors at Milton Says No have offered to replace CN’s sponsorship. To keep the parade a true community-driven event, we invite the organizers to reconsider CN’s involvement and stand with the majority of Miltonians in supporting our shared values.

“Let’s make this year’s Milton Santa Claus Parade a reflection of our community spirit.”

You can see the fundraiser or make a donation by visiting here.