Saskatoon Prosecutor Challenges Ban on Wearing Poppy in Court
A prosecutor in Saskatoon has spoken out against a court directive that prohibits wearing poppies in the courtroom, seeking to honour Canadian war veterans during legal proceedings.
Lana Morelli's Stand to Honour Veterans
Lana Morelli, a veteran prosecutor, wore a poppy on her gown during a trial at the Court of King's Bench. She was later informed by email that this was against court rules due to a "practice directive."
Court Directive and Its Justification
"It may open the flood gates to other items being worn on our gowns," said the directive's reasoning. "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 Response and Personal Sentiment
Morelli rejects this explanation, highlighting the irony of not being allowed to honour veterans inside a courtroom—the very space they helped protect. She expressed:
"We have freedom of speech because of what these brave men and women have done for our country. And not being able to honour them by wearing poppies while I'm arguing for freedom and protection tugs at my heartstrings."
Her voice wavered when she disclosed her personal connection, noting, "I have grandparents that have fought in the war." She clarified this is her personal view, not the official stance of Public Prosecutions.
Summary
Lana Morelli's challenge to the courtroom poppy ban underscores a personal commitment to honouring veterans, sparking debate over uniformity versus individual expression in court tradition.
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