Dear Canadian Legion:
In 1948 by Act of Parliament, the Canadian Legion came to own the Poppy as a trademark for marketing, advertising and fundraising activities.
These days, we encounter the poppy around the middle of October, usually outside a liquor store.
But I hate the thing. If I had a dime for every time I’ve stuck myself with a poppy pin, I could recover all the money I donated to the Legion to acquire one, usually once a year because they fall off. It’s like they are designed to fall off and inflict pain, which certainly encourages remembrance, but I’m not sure it’s the right kind.
Since they are identical every year, cheapskates I know (including a member of my tribe) reuse them every year. I don’t, but I know people who do.
Please redesign your trademark so that you put the year on the center green bit, to encourage people to buy new ones.
PLEASE fix the fastener OR start making enamelled versions of the poppy. It would be an effective year round fundraiser, especially if sold with branch numbers so local members could support their local with pride. And instead of being, effectively, somewhat hazardous trash, once no longer worn, it would be beautiful jewelry.
With love and thanks to Canada’s veterans, and sincere appreciation for the work of the Legion,
AR Sloman
