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A Kitchener judge doesn't think it's appropriate for constables and lawyers to wear
"Because however much -- and I really probably should have said something to (defence lawyer Richard Prendiville, who was also wearing a poppy) too -- but however much you may think that's a totally acceptable symbol, and that it is totally neutral, that might not be entirely the case for everybody who comes to court," the judge said.
Woolcott continued: "It represents a symbol of support and I suspect that 99.999 per cent of us happily wear it outside of the courtroom. You probably should not wear anything like that in court."
Before she excused Haines, Woolcott told him that she might ask him to remove the poppy next time...
Just when you thought things couldn't possibly get any worse.
24 comments:
this judge should meet Irene Kravitz.
What's going wrong at the Record these days for them to have to print crap like this?
No news in Kitchener Waterloo?
I think it's good that they're printing this. It's a wakeup call.
What happens if someone finds the Canadian flag offensive? Is it totally neutral? Someone out there might find it a bit too red, or something. Or not red enough.
I find it offensive that people like her are handed plum jobs in life due to their political affiliations. (real conservative)
Well, we should assume that she is well-qualified for the position, but if poppies can offend, then I fear anything can.
This is why the U.S. elects judges.
"Your honour, this symbol represents the sacrifice that braver Canadians than you or me made to have a free and fair court. It is a symbol, yes, much like the robes you wear and the gavel you use. It is this symbol which gives the ones you carry any authority, for without the sacrifice represented by those I honour, your symbols bear none." -- Stephen Taylor
If we are removing things that are offensive from the courtroom we should start with this judge.
Very well said, Stephen.
The constable should say that next time he's in her court. So should the lawyer.
Swift, I was thinking that too. This discredits all the sacrifices that those soldiers made in the wars.
Of course, in Canada, the judge would be addressed "Madam Justice".
How ironic.
-- but however much you may think that's a totally acceptable symbol, and that it is totally neutral, that might not be entirely the case for everybody who comes to court," the judge said.
I suppose that if I were to appear as a witness in a case presided over by her, she would want me to remove my cross?
Brian, good question. Does anyone know if Bibles are still allowed in the courtroom? Do people still swear on them?
""Your honour, this symbol represents the sacrifice that braver Canadians than you or me made to have a free and fair court. It is a symbol, yes, much like the robes you wear and the gavel you use. It is this symbol which gives the ones you carry any authority, for without the sacrifice represented by those I honour, your symbols bear none." -- Stephen Taylor"
All I can say is wow Stephen. I think anyone would be hard-pressed to put it any better than that. As someone who's father fought in World War 2 that is truly touching. Thanks.
paulsstuff
Paul, you're right. It was very eloquent. Your father fought for the right to wear a poppy; among other things.
I don't know why, but I find this story so sad and depressing.
Wasn't it a Christmas tree in a court building in Ontario last year that caused a similar snit?
A wake up call for what? Canadians gone nuts?
Come on Joanne.
We're giving the lowest common denominator credibility by paying attention to wingnuts like this, Irene Kravitz and Schreiber.
This is another stupid judge trick. Who appointed this person?
Stephen your reply was amazing!
This type of politically correct insanity has to be stopped.
My father (a veteran) when he was still alive was one of the first to always wear a poppy. Every year he would buy one and wear it. He never threw them away, he saved every one. He knew what they represented and cherished every one. Here's the kicker. He was a German veteran.
That judge is a cockroach, pure and simple. Spitting without fear on the symbol of a sacrifice that ensured this cretin has the freedom to disparage those who have proven greater courage - that's Canada. Judges - overpaid, greedy and incompetent. Unfortunately impossible to remove from their bully pulpits with civilized means.
I wonder if the judge is a car carrying member of the NDP?
Who did she think was going to be offended by a poppy? Was there a SS Waffen reunion happening next door? Apparently our judges are not appointed on the basis of their intelligence.
Off-topic:
A good episode of The Agenda, where the Mulroney inquiry is discussed. You may be surprised at the things James Travers has to say.
Dirk, do tell.
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