- The Governor General of Canada
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Chi Son Phu
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Flag, with differences to Mason Chi Lam Phu and Brady Chi Minh Phu
April 15, 2022
Vol. VIII, p. 87
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Blazon
Arms
Gules a leatherback turtle tergiant Or, on a chief dancetty Argent five torteaux;
Crest
A demi-water buffalo guardant Or accorné and unguled Argent, gorged with a rope pendent therefrom a pair of maple seeds Gules, holding between its forelegs a torteau charged with an ochna integerrima blossom Or;
Motto
TOGETHER ALWAYS AND FOREVER;
Symbolism
Arms
Red and white are found on the flag of Canada, Mr. Phu’s country of birth. Gold symbolizes luck, happiness and prosperity. Known for its unusually long annual migrations, the leatherback turtle alludes to the lengthy and arduous journey to Canada made by Mr. Phu’s parents, who were Vietnamese boat people and whose experience shaped his outlook on the world. The migratory behaviour of the leatherback turtle evokes adventures, and thus Mr. Phu’s interest in travelling. The turtle also stands for Kim Quy, one of the four sacred animals of Vietnamese mythology. As such, it symbolizes strength, freedom and peace, which is what Mr. Phu’s family found in Canada. The discs allude to plates and represent his career as a restaurateur and entrepreneur. The jagged line alludes to mountains, making a visual reference to his given name Chi Son, which means “mountain” in Vietnamese.
Crest
In the Vietnamese zodiac, the water buffalo symbolizes industry and patience, two virtues that Mr. Phu learned from his parents. The yellow mai is the first tree to bloom in Vietnam in spring, when Tet (the new year) is celebrated. The colour of its blossoms brings good luck, and each of their five petals a blessing, which for Mr. Phu are longevity, wealth, peace, health and virtue. The maple seeds represent Mr. Phu’s family as it grows in Canada.
Motto
This phrase serves as a guiding beacon to Mr. Phu and his family. It is a reminder that, no matter what happens in life, they can always count on each other for help.