Arms of John Harvard
Arms of John Harvard
Blazon
Gyronny of twelve Gules and Argent, a roundel counterchanged;
Symbolism
Red and white are colours favoured by Their Honours (the Hon. John Harvard and his wife, Lenore Berscheid), and are also the colours of Canada. The design makes visual allusions to values that are particularly important to them. The alternately coloured segments meeting in the centre refer to diversity and multiculturalism. They can be seen as coming together, but also as reaching out, thus alluding to His Honour’s commitment (as broadcast journalist, M.P., and Lieutenant Governor) to helping those otherwise forgotten. The circle can refer to a round table, indicative of equality and involvement of all. The twelve segments are those of the hours of a clock, showing that watching time was vital in His Honour’s original career as a radio journalist. The symbolism of time also connects to His Honour’s interest in studying history.
Crest of John Harvard
Blazon
The statue Eternal Youth, known as “Golden Boy”, by George Gardet, Or;
Symbolism
The “Golden Boy” statue is a well-known symbol of Manitoba and underlines His Honour’s parliamentary role.
Motto of John Harvard
Blazon
SUPPORT THE PUBLIC GOOD;
Symbolism
This sentence indicates Their Honours' commitment to public service.
Supporters of John Harvard
Blazon
Two sandhill cranes Argent crested Gules beaked and membered Sable standing on a rocky mound Argent issuant from a base tapissé of wheat Or;
Symbolism
The sandhill crane is a bird found in Manitoba. The rocky base refers to the Canadian Shield and thus to Her Honour’s birthplace of Bisset in the northern region of Manitoba, while the wheat field refers to the fact that His Honour grew up on a farm in the Rural Municipality of South Cypress, in the south west of the province.
