THE PEOPLES SANTA
“With all that’s going on in this country, and particularly in the African-American community, I want to offer heroes and role models through storytelling. Black Santa is the first character. His mission is to celebrate diversity, the joy of giving, and the magic of good. He’s here to bring people together and have fun.”
– Baron Davis
Santa is usually portrayed in popular culture as an older stocky white man with a white beard. But we know that Black Santa can be found in the hood, putting a smile on the faces of little Black and Brown boys and girls. Often, he’s been known to kiss a mommy or two or play a few games of spades with the guys before delivering all the toys and goodies from his sleigh.
N’DIGO was privileged to chat with Black Santa, especially with his busy schedule during the holiday season. So sit back and relax as Black Santa educates and informs with cozy conversation. He drops knowledge that’s for real. He’s always in the know, and he’ll undoubtedly enlighten you before he goes up up and away back to the North Pole.
N’DIGO: Santa, do you still live at the North Pole?
Black Santa Claus: Yes, but with Facebook and TikTok, and other social media, I am global all the time now. I had to give up my Facebook page because it was overwhelming, and Elon Musk killed my Twitter account. But TikTok and Instagram don’t allow enough time.
How do you feel about your safety when you travel to certain cities?
I am careful, but you know, my travel is in the sky and up on the rooftops. I am near the angels. I am not on public transportation, so I don’t worry about being mugged on the CTA trains, crowded parking lots, dark garages, and stuff like that. And I definitely don’t travel on the expressways. I like the way I travel; it gives me the advantage of looking down. It’s hard to shoot up in the sky.
Who comes off your list this year for being naughty?
I had to use Santa’s cancel culture for Donald Trump, Kanye West, and Herschel Walker. Too much and enough already.
Are your presents different in each city around the world?
Not really; I look at the behavior and deeds of the people I serve. The toys change yearly, but everybody likes teddy bears, pajamas, bicycles, cologne, and all little girls want a doll. Men like watches and house shoes and women like diamond jewelry and fur coats. And everybody wants a new car.
Do you ever think about modernizing your red suit?
I have been thinking about going to Dapper Dan in New York to see what he might design for me. But it must always be red, which is Christmas’s regal color.
Do you ever think about a new sleigh?
Yes, I was talking to Elon Musk about an electric Tesla (Sleigh). But he forgot about me when he bought Twitter. I really want a Red Tesla with tinted windows.
Do you ever think about retirement?
Oh, definitely not. The children wouldn’t have it.
What about a new Christmas theme song? Whom would you like to produce and sing a new song?
I have been thinking about that. Maybe John Legend and Jay-Z could do something together. And then I thought about Adele, Beyoncé, and Lizzo collaborating. They are all so busy. Maybe I can convince Mariah Carey to record another Christmas song. Lord knows the world is tired of hearing: “All I Want For Christmas Is You” every year!
What happens when you cannot get down the chimney because you are too fat?
I do what most Americans do. I think about a diet. But I must tell you, I have torn up some chimneys. I am passionate about putting gifts under the tree.
So after it’s all over, the day after Christmas, what do you do to rest?
I smoke only legalized weed, have a glass of good wine, and turn on my music. My music taste ranges from Jay-Z to Miles Davis. This year, I will kick back and watch ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ and the documentary on Al Sharpton, “Loud Mouth,” and later, I might watch the love story of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry on Netflix. Then, I will rest up for the next year.
And by the way, I think a lot about Jesus. You know, it’s one big birthday party for him. Because of him, I have a job, I suppose. But I get way too much credit.
