The Indigenous logo will be worn on Saturday when Saskatchewan hosts the Ottawa Redblacks
In Week 17 of the CFL season, the Roughriders will debut the new Indigenous logo against the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday (1 p.m., CTV, Mosaic Stadium) designed by Chris Chipak of Red Pheasant Cree Nation (Treaty 6).
“My goal has always been to have my work leave a story, even when art can’t be seen the stories carry on. My focus on this piece was to promote the importance of the land and the beauty of the prairies,” Chipak said in a media release. “I hope as this logo is revealed it provides healing, hope and inclusion to all. I wanted this to be a timeless logo that heals us from the past, make us feel in the present, and gives us hope for a better future.”
According to the release, the logo “conveys deep cultural meaning through all of its elements.” Chipak was inspired by the Treaty 4 flag to incorporate the buffalo, which embodies the spirit of the Saskatchewan prairies and represents the respect for the willingness to offer every part of itself to sustain the lives of others.
The sun emphasizes the Treaty promise and signifies the “interconnectedness of all things to represent the collective effort that is essential to reconciliation.” The ribbon-like skyline pays tribute to the province’s identity as “the land of the living skies” and traditional ribbon skirts.
The river’s (kisiskaciwan) eight circles symbolize the number of native berries of Saskatchewan. The two upright feathers evoke a sense of respect and honour, while representing Two-Spirited people, acknowledging their roles as guides and their diverse perspectives within the community. Feathers are a powerful symbol of the highest form of respect and the importance of inclusivity, according to the release.
“As a team, we are profoundly honoured to showcase this beautiful logo created by local Indigenous artist Chris Chipak,” said Roughriders president-CEO Craig Reynolds said in the release. “Each element of the logo is steeped with deep meaning, and we hope Rider Nation will not only wear it with the same pride as our football team but take a moment to reflect on Truth and Reconciliation and our connection to each other.”
The logo will be showcased throughout the stadium, on the television broadcast and on the players’ helmets. Merchandise with the Indigenous logo will also be available at the Rider Store.
Saturday’s contest is the “kisiskaciwan Game” as the Roughriders observe Truth and Reconciliation.
Before the game, a celebration of Indigenous culture will begin in Confederation Park outside of the stadium. There will also be special performances at halftime.
Across the league, all nine CFL teams will wear Indigenous-designed logos to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.
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