Move follows Whole Foods' banning of commemorative pins for Remembrance Day as dress code policy
Ontario is introducing legislation that would give workers the right to wear a poppy in the workplace.
“Our government is grateful to those in uniform, past and present, who have selflessly dedicated themselves to serving our country and protecting our values,” says Parm Gill, minister of citizenship and multiculturalism. “They deserve our unwavering respect, support and gratitude. We show that by wearing poppies, helping to ensure our children and grandchildren never forget the sacrifices they have made for us.”
After an outcry about its dress code policy banning staff from wearing commemorative poppies for Remembrance Day, Whole Foods Market reversed its stance in November 2020.
However, the change to Ontario’s Remembrance Week Act, 2016 would not apply if it poses a danger or hazard to the health, safety or welfare of any person, according to the government.
In advance of Remembrance Day on Nov. 11, Nova Scotia released a new tool to help employers and employees in the province observe the day while complying with provincial legislation.
For a rundown of the rules around Remembrance Day in Canada, check out Canadian HR Reporter’s summary.
