- 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.
The Millennium Foundation of Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Grant of Arms
September 3, 1996
Vol. III, p. 116
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Or a phoenix Purpure issuant from flames Gules between in chief and in base two bars gemel wavy Purpure;
Crest
A coronet rim set on the upper edge with maple seedlings Or and incised with a frieze of flames Or edged Gules;
Motto
CARPE MOMENTUM SAECULI NOVI;
Symbolism
Arms
The gold colour represents the sun, light and new life. The phoenix rising from the flames is an allusion to the newness or transformation ensconced in a new century and indeed, in the birth of a new millennium. The purple wavy stripes symbolize the air or vibration element and are also the sign of Aquarius, itself an icon of a new era. These purple waves also allude to new technologies such as the Internet, which the Millennium Foundation itself has employed extensively to raise awareness about leaving a legacy for the environment.
Crest
A golden coronet composed of maple leaf seedlings represents the Canadian initiative behind the concept of The Millennium Foundation of Canada. The coronet’s circle of red-edged flames is another allusion to the phoenix and to new opportunities.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “Seize the turning point of the new era.”
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 23, 1996, in Volume 130, page 3280 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Natasha van Bentum and Henri van Bentum, assisted by Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, and the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Linda Nicholson
Calligrapher
Judith Bainbridge
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
Foundation / charitable body