Saskatoon Prosecutor Denied Permission to Wear Poppy in Court
Lana Morelli, a prosecutor in Saskatoon, wanted to honor Canadian war veterans by wearing a poppy while appearing in court. However, she was informed that wearing a poppies is prohibited during court proceedings due to an existing court "practice directive."
Reasoning Behind the Court's Directive
“It may open the flood gates to other items being worn on our gowns,” Morelli explained about the directive’s rationale. “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 challenges this reasoning, finding it contradictory that honoring veterans in the very place they protected is disallowed.
Personal Commitment to Honoring Veterans
“We have freedom of speech because of what these brave men and women have done for our country,” Morelli said. “And not being able to honour them by wearing poppies while I'm arguing for freedom and protection tugs at my heartstrings.”
Her voice showed emotion as she shared a personal connection: “I have grandparents that have fought in the war.” She emphasized this is her personal stance, not necessarily the position of Public Prosecutions.
Incident Recap
- Lana Morelli wore a poppy on her gown at the Court of King's Bench on Monday at the start of a trial.
- She was later notified via email that it is not allowed due to court regulations.
Morelli’s intention is to pay respect to veterans in a place central to their sacrifice, but she faces official rules that prioritize uniformity in the courtroom.
Author's summary: Lana Morelli, a Saskatoon prosecutor, objects to court rules forbidding wearing poppies, viewing it as a denial of honoring veterans and freedom of expression in the courtroom.
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