Saskatoon prosecutor barred from wearing poppy in court
Lana Morelli, a prosecutor from Saskatoon, expressed disappointment after being told she cannot wear a poppy in court to honour Canadian war veterans. She hoped to pay tribute to those who fought for the freedoms she stands for in her work.
Court directive and reasoning
Morelli received an email informing her that wearing a poppy is against a court practice directive. The rule aims to maintain uniformity among lawyers in the courtroom.
"It may open the flood gates to other items being worn on our gowns," she said. "The reason that gowns are worn are so that everybody looks the same, so that there is no issues or disparities between individuals."
The directive suggests that if exceptions are made for poppies, others might seek to wear different symbols or adornments, affecting courtroom neutrality.
Morelli’s response
Morelli disagrees with the restriction and finds it deeply ironic that she cannot honour veterans in a place dedicated to justice and freedom.
"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 emphasized that her comments reflect her personal beliefs and not those of Public Prosecutions. When asked about her motivation, she noted family ties to the military.
"I have grandparents that have fought in the war."
Author’s summary
Prosecutor Lana Morelli challenges a court rule banning poppies on gowns, arguing that it contradicts the very freedoms Canadian veterans fought to protect.