The poppy is a symbol of remembrance that’s supposed to transcend political tiffs, honouring those who sacrificed their lives to ensure Canada’s continued existence. And yet, to some judges in the country, it’s now considered so political that it must be banned from the courtroom.

Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan are the prime offenders. In Nova Scotia, “all judges and staff are expected not to wear any symbols of support in the courtroom” as a matter of neutrality, according to spokesperson Andrew Preeper. The Nova Scotia courts consider the poppy to violate that rule.

“Staff who wished to wear poppies in the courtroom were advised to speak with the presiding judge and conversations, as needed, have occurred around that specific topic. It is within the discretion of the presiding judge,” he

See Full Page