TRURO - Unless specifically approved by the Royal Canadian Legion, readers of this newspaper will no longer see the poppy symbol as part of Remembrance Day advertisements.
A TC Media newspaper publisher received a letter earlier this week from the Legion's Dominion Command to stop publishing any advertisements containing the poppy symbol.
Bill Maxwell, the secretary of the Poppy and Remembrance Committee, says any use of the poppy symbol in advertisements must be approved, noting that it is a registered trademark of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Contacted at his Ottawa office, Maxwell says the Legion takes its role as protector of the poppy image very seriously.
"It is our job to ensure it is used appropriately," said Maxwell. "Each case is judged on its own merits."
Newspapers are not required to get permission for putting a poppy in the masthead or to accompany articles where the obvious intent is one of remembrance of the wars, or with an obituary for a veteran, Maxwell clarified Tuesday, noting that to approve every such piece would be a daunting task.
When it comes to ads though, he said it should be sent to them.
The legion has issued a 62-page poppy manual that in part deals with issues surrounding use of the image.
In that manual, situations where usage would be considered by the committee include Remembrance-themed public service announcements, on church bulletins, for educational use, on veterans monuments and within commemorative parks, street signs and banners to recognize commemorative events.
Uses that the poppy image would not be accepted include on any clothing items, music CDs, or commemorative items like car magnets. Tattoos featuring the poppy image are also specifically prohibited.
Maxwell says most people use the poppy image with the best intentions, but are unaware of the legion's policies.
"It's not necessarily for control. It's more for ensuring the respectful use," Maxwell said. "That's really the emphasis."
He said when in doubt to send it in.
"We want to encourage remembrance, but we want to reinforce that it is appropriate," he said.
