The Mi'kmawitasik Logo
A Community Trademark
Following extensive Community discussion, an open call for Community sourced design generated an overwhelming response, concluding in a collaboration between renowned Community artists Loretta Gould and Alan Syliboy. The logo was then refined by Wagmatcook graphic designer Hailey Isadore, and further prepared for widespread use across applications by a brand consulting firm. Special thanks to Bernie Francis for helping us choose “Mi’kmaw” vs “L’nu” as the correct terminology for this usage.
It was important that this logo along with its accompanying brand – to be used to identify authentially Mi’kmaq tourism offerings – be:
♦ Unique
♦ Distinctive
♦ Culturally Appropriate
♦ Meaningful
♦ Vetted by Community
Creating Connections with a Community Cultural Brand
Our defining story is one of resilience and determination. For generations, Mi’kmaq people have faced colonial challenges to and erasures of their culture and traditions. Despite this, we have preserved and passed down much of our knowledge, beliefs, and practices through the ages, and are working to recover what was stolen. We honor this legacy by providing a platform for Mi’kmaw artists and entrepreneurs to share their unique perspectives and stories with the world.
Through Mi’kmawitasik, we aim to create meaningful connections between visitors and Mi’kmaw culture, promoting understanding and appreciation for our way of life while improving the economic outlook of our Mi’kmaq Members and communities. Mi’kmawitasik celebrates the unique culture and traditions of the Mi’kmaw people.
The circle is an important symbol for the Mi’kmaq as representing many cycles
The gentle waves within the border circle represent our connection to Mother Earth and Father Sky, and all of the animals, birds, fish, and plant life within
The four small lines motif repeated within the border circle represent the four directions and our physical, social, & traditional knowledge, as well as our spiritual relationship to our lands and waters
The curled L’Nu symbol, repeated throughout the logo, is an ancient and revered community symbol that represents the Mi’kmaw people
The four traditional colours - white, red, yellow, and black - carry many meanings: the four directions, the four seasons, the four stages of life, the four elements, and the four colours of human kind
The foundation of the inner circle features a birch bark pattern - Mi’kmaq are well known for using birch bark in their art work and tools, past and present
The inner circle of people holding hands represents our strong communities and our connection to our language and culture, as well as the love we have for all Nations and Peoples. It is a circle of Peace & Friendship, reflecting the spirit and intention of the Treaties of Peace and Friendship and the welcome that Mi’kmaq provided to newcomers to Mi’kma’ki.
Mi’kmawitasik is a brand that represents the proud and vibrant culture of the Mi’kmaw people, and it is a symbol of our strength, resilience, and wisdom. It’s a brand that celebrates the rich history and traditions of the Mi’kmaw people, while also looking to the future with hope and optimism.