Saskatoon Prosecutor Challenges Ban on Wearing Poppy in Court
Lana Morelli, a prosecutor in Saskatoon, insists she should be permitted to wear a poppy in court to honor Canadian war veterans. However, she was informed by email that such a display is prohibited due to a court "practice directive."
Reasoning Behind the Ban
The directive’s justification is to maintain uniformity in the courtroom, preventing disparities between individuals. Officials worry that allowing poppies might lead to other adornments being worn on gowns.
"It may open the flood gates to other items being worn on our gowns," said Morelli. "The reason that gowns are worn are so that everybody looks the same, so that there is no issues or disparities between individuals. And that, if we start to wear poppies, that people may start wearing other adornments onto their gowns or make those requests."
Morelli’s Perspective and Personal Connection
Morelli finds it ironic that recognizing veterans within the courtroom is disallowed, especially as freedom of speech exists because of their sacrifices.
"We have freedom of speech because of what these brave men and women have done for our country," she said. "And not being able to honour them by wearing poppies while I'm arguing for freedom and protection tugs at my heartstrings."
She became emotional when revealing a personal reason for her stance, clarifying this reflects her individual view and not that of Public Prosecutions.
"I have grandparents that have fought in the war."
Summary
The ban on wearing poppies in court has prompted a veteran prosecutor to publicly challenge uniformity policies, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans in a setting that upholds freedom and justice.