- The Governor General of Canada
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Christopher John Massart
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
November 15, 2024
Vol. VIII, p. 325
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Blazon
Arms
Per fess Gules and Argent a hawk-lion counterchanged holding a stirrup leathered Or;
Crest
A bison Gules accorné and unguled Argent its forelegs stomping on a flame Or;
Motto
LUX SUPERAT;
Symbolism
Arms
Red and white are the colours of the Canadian flag, highlighting Mr. Massart’s pride in serving his country. The hawk-lion honours his forefathers. In particular, the hawk’s wings and keen eyesight recall his grandfather who was a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force and known for his good vision. The lion’s features allude to his ancestor Michel Hache who settled in New France and who, according to family lore, was nicknamed "Gallant" because he “fought like a lion.” Furthermore, the hawk-lion combines the skills of two great hunters and thus marks hunting as a favourite family activity. The stirrup, a riding aid that supports the rider, embodies service, an important value for Mr. Massart, while also referring to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, in which he and several other members of his family have served.
Crest
The bison is the official mammal of Manitoba, Mr. Massart’s home province. It is also an emblem of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, representing his career in this service of law enforcement. Its stomping on a flame symbolizes the courage needed to confront dangerous conditions such as fire or an armed enemy. It pays tribute to members of Mr. Massart’s family who served in the military and in the police, and his own experience as a volunteer fire fighter.
Motto
This Latin phrase meaning “Light will prevail” expresses Mr. Massart’s belief in the coexistence of light and darkness, representing good and evil, and his faith in the power of good to triumph.