Saskatoon Prosecutor Challenges Ban on Wearing Poppies in Court
Lana Morelli, a prosecutor in Saskatoon, believes she should be permitted to wear a poppy in court to honor Canadian war veterans. However, she was informed she is not allowed to do so due to a court "practice directive."
Wearing the Poppy as a Symbol of Respect
Morelli, a veteran prosecutor, wore a poppy on her gown during a trial at the Court of King's Bench. She wanted to pay tribute to those who fought to protect the country, especially in the courtroom where justice is served.
Official Reason for the Ban
"It may open the flood gates to other items being worn on our gowns," Morelli explained, referring to the directive. "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 Disagreement with the Directive
Morelli disagrees with the reasoning behind the ban, finding it ironic that honoring veterans is prohibited in a courtroom—an institution defending freedoms they fought for.
"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."
Personal Motivation
Her voice visibly faltered when asked if she had a personal reason for advocating this change. She noted this reflects her personal stance, rather than the position of Public Prosecutions.
"I have grandparents that have fought in the war."
Author’s summary: Lana Morelli challenges a court directive banning poppy-wearing, emphasizing the importance of honoring veterans and the irony of restricting such expression in a courtroom.