Saskatoon Prosecutor Barred from Wearing Poppy in Court
Prosecutor Lana Morelli from Saskatoon believes she should be allowed to honour Canadian war veterans by wearing a poppy during court proceedings. However, she was informed this is prohibited under a court practice directive.
On Monday, at the Court of King's Bench, Morelli wore a poppy on her gown at the start of a trial before receiving an email explaining that the symbol was not permitted.
"It may open the floodgates to other items being worn on our gowns," she said of the directive's justification. "The reason that gowns are worn is so that everyone appears the same, avoiding any disparity between individuals."
Despite this reasoning, Morelli disagrees with the restriction, finding it contradictory that a symbol meant to honour those who fought for freedom is not welcome in a courtroom.
"We have freedom of speech because of what these brave men and women have done for our country," she said. "Not being able to honour them by wearing poppies while arguing for freedom and protection tugs at my heartstrings."
When asked if she had a personal reason for speaking publicly, Morelli’s voice cracked as she clarified that her stance reflects her own views, not those of Public Prosecutions.
"I have grandparents that have fought in the war," she said.
Author's Summary
Lana Morelli challenges a court directive banning poppies on gowns, arguing it undermines the very freedoms defended by the veterans it seeks to honour.