The poppy debate

A new controversy has been brewing surrounding this year's Remembrance Day observance in Canada. A group of women called Women in Black have imported white poppies from the UK to distribute in time for Nov 11. This in an effort to promote peace and shine the spotlight on the 'victims' of war alongside the veterans and serving members of our military. The white poppy is not a new idea, but it may be new to Canada. Veterans, headed by the Royal Canadian Legion, are opposed to the white poppy, suggesting that it infringes against their trademarked red poppy.

The story has created quite a stir amongst my friends and work colleagues, many of whom are former or current serving military folks themselves (as was I). Personally, I don't have a problem with the white poppy. I don't believe it takes away from the importance of remembering soldiers who have given their lives (and continue to do so to this day). Because in many cases, the civilians who suffer at the hands of military conflict have little say in their country engaging in battle. Take the people of Afghanistan. They are tired of conflict, but they continue to deal with the influence of the Taliban and other groups who revel in waging conflict and stirring up hatred. They continue to lose life alongside the brave soldiers who are trying to rid their country of suicide bombers and other terrorists. But they get little sympathy from anyone.

Besides, we live in a society that values all opinions (that do not promote hatred) and this white poppy trend is an example of those who would remind us that peace is a goal worth striving for. That can't be a bad thing, can it?

Pic by reallyreallyrosie.