TRCM Logo

The logo of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba is designed to highlight the significance of the Treaty relationship between the Crown and First Nations.

In the foreground of the logo is the Sacred Pipe. From a First Nation perspective, using the Pipe adds a spiritual element to any agreement. By sharing the Pipe, both parties agree to the solemnity of the occasion and ask the Creator to witness the spirit and intent of the agreement. The stem of the pipe is adorned with 8 ribbons representing the seven Treaty territories and the territory of the Dakotas. The colours of the ribbons represent the four races of mankind and the inclusion of all peoples within Canada as being Treaty people. The head of the Sacred Pipe is in the shape of eagle's head, which symbolizes those aspects of humanity which are closest to the Creator and the highest ideals of humankind.

First Nation Elders have clearly stated that there were three parties to the Treaties: the Creator, the Crown and the First Nation peoples. The smoke from the pipe is brought by the eagle to the Creator. The eagle messenger carries the prayers that seek to bring the parties together in peace harmony and understanding. The smoke from the pipe carries the intentions of the two parties up to the Creator, thereby, binding the two parties in a connection that includes the spiritual as well as the physical.

Within the logo, the physical aspect of the landscape evolves from the pipe smoke, becoming the water that gives all people life. Out of the water comes the land. This great country, Canada, which rose from the Treaty relationship, is represented by the Maple leaf. A hidden concept within the leaf is the idea that it grew from a seed. One of the seeds that created Canada is the relationship between First Nations and the British Crown.

Looking over everything is the Creator's greatest representation in the natural world: the sun. It is from the sun that Mother Earth receives the energy necessary to bring forth life and the bounty of the land.

The sun also represents the light of education and understanding which is a crucial element in creating a healthy relationship between the peoples that share Mother Earth and the fact that we are all Treaty people.