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.
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Supporters
March 7, 1989
Vol. I, p. 1
Arms of Jeanne SauvéBlazonAzure the Mace of the House of Commons of Canada Or in bend between in chief an eagle displayed Or bearing in its beak a bolt of lightning Gules and in base a lion passant guardant Or imperially crowned proper holding in the dexter paw a maple leaf Gules fimbriated Or; SymbolismThe blue background and gold eagle recall the ancestral arms of the Benoit family (Her Excellency’s maiden name). As a tribute to Her Excellency’s career in broadcasting, the eagle carries a bolt of lightning. The mace represents Her Excellency’s tenure as Speaker of the House of Commons. The crowned lion holding a maple leaf is symbolic of Her Excellency’s term as Governor General. |
CrestBlazonWithin a circlet composed alternately of maple leaves Gules and fleurs-de-lys Or a dove wings elevated and addorsed holding in its beak a sprig of olive both proper; SymbolismThe maple leaves and fleurs-de-lis mark Her Excellency’s Canadian service and French-Canadian heritage, and the dove with an olive branch in its beak represents an aspiration of peace for Canada. |
MottoBlazonVIS ET TOLERANTIA; SymbolismThis Latin phrase means "Strength and tolerance" and reflects Her Excellency's philosophy of adaptability and of "give and take." |
SupportersBlazonOn either side a doe proper each gorged with a collar Argent pendant therefrom a roundel barry wavy Argent and Vert; SymbolismDeer are found in the greater part of Canada and are shown here as doe, alluding to the essential contributions made by women in Canada. The supporters’ collars and the medallions represent the youth of Canada and Her Excellency’s service to the new generation of citizens. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on July 22, 1989 in Volume 123, page 3347 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterGordon Macpherson CalligrapherJudith Bainbridge Recipient TypeIndividual Special DesignationGovernor General |