- The Governor General of Canada
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.
Henri-Paul Normandin
Saint-Ignace-de-Loyola, Quebec
Grant of Arms
September 15, 2025
Vol. VIII, p. 426
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Azure a dove volant Argent holding in its claws an oak branch, a chief dancetty tapissé of wheat Or;
Crest
A terrestrial globe Argent its continents Azure surmounting two canoe paddles in saltire Gules their blades embellished Or;
Motto
AD MELIOREM MUNDUM;
Symbolism
Arms
Blue represents water, conveying Mr. Normandin’s passion for kayaking and for the St. Lawrence River. It is also the colour of Quebec, his place of origin, and of the United Nations, where he served for many years as Canada’s representative. Symbolizing peace and justice, the dove represents his legal education and his career focused on justice and human rights. The serrated division line alludes to mountains. Combined with the oak leaves, which reference his wife’s surname, they emphasize the love his family has for nature, as well as one of his sons’ career in forestry. Finally, the wheat recalls the agricultural roots of Mr. Normandin’s and his wife’s families.
Crest
The globe alludes to Mr. Normandin’s career, which took place on the international stage with his family by his side. It is also a nod to the profession of one of his sons as a geographer. The paddles reflect Mr. Normandin’s passion, shared with his family, for exploration, water activities and nature.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “For a better world.”
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on January 1, 1900, in Volume 0, page 0 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Alix Chartrand, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Desirée Kern
Calligrapher
Yolande Lessard
Recipient Information
Individual