Opto Civitas

The NDP is apparently keen to be a civil official opposition.

Moments after leader Jack Layton publicly addressed his caucus for the first time since a record 103 New Democrats were elected, self-proclaimed "loudmouth" Pat Martin pulled out a set of colourful buttons bearing the words "Opto Civitas." "I choose civility. That’s the new me," he proclaimed.

He apparently made 300 of them in various party colours. There’s even one for Green Party leader Elizabeth May. He plans to hand them out when Parliament resumes June 2 ... [Layton] later noted that the "heckling" that’s become commonplace during question period over the course of several minority governments, needs to stop and that it’s time for "respectful discussions" that don’t drive school groups out the door in shame.