The Viceregal Lion
  1. The Governor General of Canada
Heraldry Today

The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.

Richelieu International

Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Flags and Badges
October 2, 2006
Vol. V, p. 70

Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.


Blazon

Arms

Argent three chevronels Gules overall a tressure flory Azure;

Crest

Two arms embowed and interlaced, that to the dexter Gules, that to the sinister Azure;

Supporters

Two Arctic terns wings displayed and inverted proper each supporting a gonfanon as described below and standing on a mound of maple leaves Or and tulips Argent slipped Vert;

Motto

PAIX ET FRATERNITÉ;

Flag

Argent in hoist three pallets Gules, overall a tressure flory Azure;

Flag

A gonfanon Azure charged with the monogram RI within a circle of fleurs-de-lis Argent;

Badge

An Arctic tern rising proper;

Badge

The monogram RI within a circle of fleurs-de-lis Azure;


Symbolism

Arms

The three chevrons allude to the coat of arms of Cardinal Richelieu. For Richelieu International, the name Richelieu refers to the famous “Maison Richelieu,” founded by the Duchesse d’Aiguillon in Quebec City in the 17th century at the request and expense of Cardinal Richelieu; the mission of this house was to see to the needs of underprivileged children and the orphans of New France’s soldiers and colonists. The tressure, made up of fleurs-de-lis, represents Richelieu International and its defence of the French fact, as well as its promotion of respect for language and culture in the worldwide francophone community.

Crest

The two interlaced arms represent the voluntarist characteristic of Richelieu International’s community involvement. Richelieu International strives to ensure the full development of its members and to promote francophone culture through social, cultural and humanitarian actions.

Supporters

The two Arctic terns, known for their long migration to the Antarctic, represent Richelieu International’s presence in the international francophone community. The maple leaves symbolize the fact that the movement took shape in Canada, and the tulips represent the fact that the Club’s first chapter was created in Ottawa in 1945.

Motto

Meaning “Peace and fellowship”.

Flag

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.

Flag

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.

Badge

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.

Badge

The monogram “RI” refers to the organization’s name.


Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 18, 2006, in Volume 140, page 3688 of the Canada Gazette.


Artist Information

Creator(s)
Original concept of Karine Constantineau, Miramichi Herald, and François Payeur, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter
Debra MacGarvie

Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione


Recipient Information

Civil Institution
Community Service Organization