Dear Urban Diplomat: I’m a Jew. Do I really need to participate in the office Secret Santa?
Dear Urban Diplomat, I don’t want to participate in my office Secret Santa because, ta-da, I’m Jewish. I’m not offended by it; I just don’t feel right taking part. Unfortunately, the organizers did the draw without asking and, of course, I got my boss. Any tips on backing out without attracting all kinds of weird attention?
—Who Wants a Dreidel?, Markham
Secret Santas tend to be religious in name only, so you could request a secular rebranding along the lines of “gift exchange” and just cross your fingers that you don’t receive a glazed ham. If you’re still set on opting out, just tell the organizer as much. You’re Jewish, not a Raelian or a brony (Google it), so your decision shouldn’t kick up much discussion with your colleagues—or, for that matter, with your boss, who probably won’t care where the latest World’s Best Boss mug came from.
Send your questions to the Urban Diplomat at urbandiplomat@torontolife.com
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