Ontario would compel employers to let workers wear poppies around Remembrance Day

TORONTO -

Ontario is introducing legislation that would give workers the right to wear a poppy during the week of Remembrance Day.

The Progressive Conservative government says it wants to enshrine the right in law to remind employers that Ontario "owes a debt of gratitude" to those who serve the country.

It says that position should be reflected in employment policies and practices.

There will be an exception to the proposed law if a poppy poses a safety hazard.

Premier Doug Ford vowed to introduce the legislation last November amid controversy over a since-revoked policy at grocery chain Whole Foods Market that forbade employees from wearing anything other than their basic uniforms, including poppies.

The U.S.-based Whole Foods said it had not intended to suggest a lack of support for Remembrance Day and called the feedback it received on the matter helpful.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 28, 2021.