- The Governor General of Canada
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Braden Josiah Root-McCaig
Peterborough, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
August 15, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 207
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Blazon
Arms
Per chevron Argent and Azure, in chief the roots of a tree issuant in chief, in base a canoe affronty resting thereon a pen fesswise its nib to the dexter, all counterchanged;
Crest
An oak tree fructed Azure leaved and enfiling a Loyalist civil coronet Argent;
Motto
DEEP ROOTS ENDURE;
Symbolism
Arms
Blue and white are the colours of the Scottish flag, honouring Mr. Root-McCaig’s ancestry. The tree roots refer to his surname of Root. As an early Canadian means of transportation, the canoe symbolizes his ancestors’ contributions to Canada. It also refers to canoeing, a favourite family activity. The pen alludes to his McCaig surname, which comes from a Gaelic name meaning “son of a poet.” The pen also represents written and other forms of communications that he uses in his legislative work, advocacy and community service. The division line alludes to a roof, representing his family legacy as community builders and his own work in advancing such causes as affordable housing.
Crest
Known for its strength, the oak refers to endurance. It symbolizes Mr. Root-McCaig’s family’s history and his advocacy for environmental sustainability. As the national tree of both England and the United States of America, and an important material for ship building, the oak recalls the journey of his ancestors from the Old World to Pennsylvania. The acorns embody hopes for the future. The Loyalist civil coronet indicates that Mr. Root-McCaig is descended from United Empire Loyalists who immigrated to Canada in the 18th century.
The helm represents the Greek heritage of Mr. Root-McCaig’s spouse and their shared passion for philosophy and psychology.
Motto
Inspired by a line in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings – “Deep roots are not reached by the frost” – this phrase highlights Mr. Root-McCaig’s name while asserting his pride in his family heritage.